I think there are a lot of rules for women. We have a lot of expectations and a lot of rules for women. So we're expected to march in a straight line, and when we don't, all hell breaks loose.
Roxane GayRead
I have a job I'm pretty good at. I am in charge of things. I am on committees. People respect me and take my counsel. I want to be strong and professional, but I resent how hard I have to work to be taken seriously, to receive a fraction of the consideration I might otherwise receive.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the challenges of being respected and taken seriously in a professional setting despite hard work.
Roxane Gay's quote expresses the frustration of a professional who feels that, despite their competence and respect earned in their field, they still face undue challenges in being taken seriously. It highlights the struggle for acknowledgment and fairness in the workplace, pointing to the resilience required to navigate these dynamics while seeking recognition for their skills and contributions.
Themes
RespectWorkProfessionalismChallengeRecognition
In practice
Example use cases
During a meeting discussing gender equality, this quote can help illustrate challenges faced in professional environments.
More from Roxane Gay
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There has been, and there will continue to be, vigorous discussions about race in America. I worry that little will come of these discussions because we aren't addressing what must be done to change the current racial climate.
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