I just returned from the National CREW, (Commercial Real Estate Women) Network Convention in Houston. It’s always uplifting and powerful to connect with women from all over the world. What is always fun to me, is not only do you connect with women from all over the world, but you also connect with women in the same city you work in. We all get so busy and overwhelmed with, well, life, that we don’t get quality time with the women we see on a regular basis in meetings or at luncheons in your own city.
Our keynote speaker was the amazing Geena Davis (think Thelma and Louise). Not only was she gracious, poised and professional, but she had a very compelling message about parity for women and girls. It has to start early and she is focused on getting more girls and women in film – specifically children’s film. Her motto is “if she can see it, she can be it” and getting women and girls in more meaningful important career roles in film.
Then she addressed the elephant in the room when she was asked her thoughts on the Harvey Weinstein issue and if she thought things would start to change. Her answer was that, as horrific as the issue was, we were getting the attention of not just women, but men as well and if we could get more executive men aware and involved in a solution, that was a good start.
I agree with her 100%. This isn’t just a womens’ issue. We must educate men and involve them in a solution. So, I challenge you today, both women and men, to open your eyes to the issues women have dealt with for ages, and make a difference instead of turning a deaf ear.
Make it a great day!