Harvard Business Review: Stop Telling Young Women of Color to Accept a Broken System

Article link: https://hbr.org/2022/06/stop-telling-young-women-of-color-to-accept-a-broken-system

The article "Stop Telling Young Women of Color to Accept a Broken System" challenges the harmful advice often given to women of color as they transition from graduation to the workplace. While working hard and outdoing the competition are traditionally seen as pathways to success, this perspective can perpetuate unhealthy patterns and reinforce systemic inequities. The author, a former executive and expert in leadership, race, and gender, emphasizes that acceptance of such advice leads to feelings of powerlessness rather than empowerment.

To truly thrive, new graduates are encouraged to prepare for workplace challenges, stay true to their identities, and build supportive communities. ​The article highlights the importance of confronting microaggressions and racism, advocating for oneself, and finding a sense of belonging in professional settings.​ Ultimately, it asserts that the journey to leadership should not rely solely on hard work but on the agency and support systems that enable authenticity and resilience in the corporate landscape.