We live in a time which is more aware of diversity issues–that is, that they are issues–than ever before. While it is certainly not the first time in history that the plight and limitations of women and minorities have been drawn into the public eye, much progress toward overcoming them has been made. Northouse describes the challenges that are faced by those who do not fit the traditional stereotype of a leader as a glass labyrinth, which must be passed through to make it to the top of a given hierarchy (2013). Though the laws have long since changed to encourage equality, the achievement of their intent is still in progress. More and more, however, this labyrinth is being overcome and reduced.
Prime examples of this are the fact that the US currently has an African American president and may very well have a female democratic candidate in the next election. And if they are criticized, it is for their politics rather than their race or gender. Politics aside, this gives hope that the labyrinth may finally be coming under control.
Popular media persons have joined the conversation in an effort toward continued change. Emma Watson, using her recent appointment to the leadership role of U.N. Goodwill Ambassador, has spoken out openly and repeatedly in hopes to end gender inequality. In her speech at the U.N. Headquarters, she speaks to feminism as it is currently understood, her own experiences in gender inequality, and to specific human rights issues, such as unequal pay. What stood out to me most about her inspiring message was her emphasis on equality as having great potential benefit for all individuals of either sex. What this says to me is that diversity in an important issue, because any facets that limit it also limit the benefits everyone receives from it.
I work in the construction industry, which is not well known for its open-mindedness to diversity. However, I am lucky enough to work for a company which is actively challenging the status quo and equally employs individuals from all different minority groups. Our most quickly advancing estimator is a young, Hispanic, lesbian female. Our office manager is a middle-aged, Hispanic female. Our administrative assistant is a young, African American female. And while the four company owners are all rather homogenous–all middle-aged, Caucasian males–they regularly joke that we will soon be the all-girl restoration company and less regularly but more seriously mention that they have no hesitations in promoting the right person for a position, no matter any other characteristics.
The world is changing–of that, I am sure. I am confident that as those with a great voice, whether on a worldwide level or on an organizational level, continue to challenge the patterns of the past, we will be able to exert more control over this glass labyrinth. Everyone will benefit from the increase in diversity as those who fall in minority categories are finally able to break through.