We loved reading stories from our female employees about what Women's History Month means to them. Now we turn to the men of APB for their take.(And remember, we want to know what you are reflecting on this Women's History Month. Leave a comment or join the conversation on Twitter or Facebook.)
"Things have changed in the past 20 years, but, when you think about other sweeping changes that have taken place in technology and other areas, I think you'd have to be a bit disappointed. We lag so far behind other countries—even developing countries—in terms of women in political leadership. Where are our Mary Robinsons, Gro Brundtlands and Ellen Johnson Sirleafs? It's fair to say that men are proportionally much more responsible for many of our most challenging problems but that we are going to need to draw more on the abilities, intellects and sensitivities of women if we are to ever put things right. March, to me, is Women's Future Month—or else we're all history."
-Ken (@eisenk), VP
"Having grown up the middle child in between two sisters, I couldn't imagine a world, personal or professional, without the influence of women. I owe my passion for human services, social justice, and my sense of community to them and the matriarchs in my life."
-Paul (@pkreiterapbinc), Human Services & Social Justice Groups"It's hard to fathom that, a mere 100 years ago, women had to publish/author books under male names or as written by 'Timothy Allen's Wife' or 'Reverend Daniel's Daughter.' They did not have the right to vote or the freedom to aspire to professions other than those dictated by society's mores (usually wife, mother, homemaker). We recognize the struggles for equality by African Americans and the struggles by Native Americans to reclaim their land and rightful place in history. Yet I think it's easy to forget the struggles of women. Women's History Month is a reminder of their hard-fought battles and their achievements, as well as a tremendous testament to the human spirit."
-Josh (@cuffless), Corporate Sales"As I rapidly approach my 64th birthday and my 33-year anniversary with APB, I am struck at how much the lives of women have changed in every facet of my life. I am blessed to have an active mother who is 92 years young. She lived a somewhat traditional life, a young working girl who married and spent years taking care of the upbringing of two sons and the management of the household. She returned to the world of work after we were old enough and demonstrated to me how incredibly difficult it was to balance her responsibilities as a wife, mother, and working woman. As the feminist movement of the '60s took hold while I was in college, I believe that its mission of changing the hearts and minds of women and men began to take root with me. My first serious relationship was with a feminist activist who challenged my thinking on just about everything. I reviewed my thinking on the practice of my religion and my approach to women in my professional setting as well as in personal matters and slowly made changes in my attitudes and behavior. Suffice it to say that as I grew into adulthood I was prepared to have a co-equal relationship with my wonderful wife which did not resemble that of my parents (who were very happily married for 67 years). Susan and I produced two incredible daughters who only saw the product of the hard work of the feminist struggle. I hope that my evolution will lead someday to future grandchildren seeing even more progress for men and women in living lives of true equality."
-Bob D., Senior VP"I am floored when I think about the additional hurdles, stresses, and expectations women have to face throughout their lives. Though traditional gender roles have been erased – or at least smudged – in many circumstances, I still think the unspoken truth is that many women either forsake a career for a family, or are expected to juggle a professional life while managing a household as well.
"My mother was the latter, and consequently one of the strongest women I know. She somehow found a way to raise three boys who had no lack of talent for getting into trouble, all while honing her profession. In 2009, when the economic recession hit full swing, both my brother and father were laid off from their jobs. Instead of lamenting, my mother stepped up and took on a second job – which she hated – to help our family weather the storm. It’s from her that I learned the meaning of self sacrifice, and was able to develop a strong work ethic and strive to be better.
"When I look back I realize that I have been very fortunate to have strong women in my life, and they have taught me an important yet simple truth –we still have a lot to learn from the selflessness, determination, caring, and understanding of women."
-Matt, Marketing
"I have always cherished the power of women, having grown up with a mother and sister who are accomplished career women. My real understanding of gender inequality came in a landmark book written almost 20 years ago, The Mismeasure of Woman, which highlighted why gender biases and social misperceptions existed in most aspects of society. It is remarkable how much has changed for the better in the last two decades, and I have great hope for the future."
-Michael, Corporate Sales
"What women had to go through historically for their own civil rights is astonishing and should never be forgotten. Like other atrocious time periods, we dedicate time to remember and listen to stories which make us stronger as a society going forward. It's a true pleasure for me to work at APB and secure the prominent women on our roster in front of audiences to commemorate this important month. I am proud to say I have many female role models that have made me the confident person I am today."
-Adam (@AFoxAPBSpeakers), College Sales
"I am thrilled to be a part of an organization that has - for nearly 50 years - been advocating for women and giving them a voice on the global lecture stage. I'm proud that Newsweek has recently honored Shirin Ebadi, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Anousheh Ansari, and Sheryl WuDunn in its current issue of 'Women Who Shake the World.'"
-Perry, President & COO
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