LOS ANGELES—A recent “Lunch and Learn” session commemorated the progress made in gender equality in the U.S.
Women’s Equality Day is nationally observed Aug. 26; the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s program was live-streamed Aug.17 from its headquarters in downtown Los Angeles.
Innerbichler and Van Tuyl shared anecdotes and stories about remarkable women, who broke glass ceilings and contributed to gender equality throughout American history, focusing mostly on military women.
“All of us stand on the shoulders of those who have been doing the work of advocating for gender equality for generations,” Innerbichler said. “Seek out the past and the present leaders of the movement and have faith in yourself as a future leader.”
She added the LA District has a “fantastic leadership development program.”
“If you want to be a leader, you can make yourself a leader,” she said.
Employees may join the Federal Women’s Employment Program or any of the other Special Emphasis programs offered by the LA District’s Equal Employment Opportunity office.
“Your voice matters,” Innerbichler said.
South Pacific Division Commander Brig. Gen. Antoinette Gant said that Women's Equality Day presents an opportunity to reflect on the work that still lies ahead.
“We must continue to address the persistent challenges and barriers that women face in various spheres of life,” Gant said. “By advocating for gender equality, breaking down stereotypes and promoting equitable practices, we can build a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and reach their full potential.”
LA District Deputy Commander Maj. Stephen Brooks asked participants to take a moment to reflect on the progress made to gender equality and to recommit to the work that still needs to be done.
“As we know, the fight for gender equality is not new,” Brooks said. “It's a fight that's waged for centuries by both men and women all over the world, and while we've made a lot of great strides, there's still much work.”
Innerbichler said even though great women have pushed for women’s equality and broken barriers to give women the rights we currently have, it is never time to stop pushing for gender equality.
“The gap is not closed,” she said. “It is up to us, today, tomorrow, yesterday, to continue the journey and practices that women have been advocating for generations … even though great women have pushed for women’s equality and broken barriers to give women the rights we currently have,” Innerbichler said. “It is never time to stop pushing for gender equality. The gap is not closed. It is up to us, today, tomorrow, yesterday, to continue the journey and practices that women have been advocating for generations.”
Van Tuyl said we all benefit when we create and enforce a workplace culture free of toxicity and sexism.
“It is up to each and every one of us to commit to a healthy workplace culture,” she said.