K. Sujata 2013-05-22T17:54:55-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/author/index.php?author=k-sujata Copyright 2008, HuffingtonPost.com, Inc. HuffingtonPost Blogger Feed for K. Sujata Good old fashioned elbow grease. A Woman's Workplace Revolution tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2013:/theblog//3.3038571 2013-04-09T13:57:31-04:00 2013-04-09T13:57:35-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead. In one interview promoting the book, Sheryl discussed being a "pompom girl for feminism," her words, not mine. Sandberg's book has garnered her a fair share of critics who jump to point out that "leaning in" might not do much good for women who are struggling to overcome systemic and structural barriers to career advancement.

It is true: Sheryl Sandberg does not speak for all women in her book, nor should she have to. Her book was constructed with a particular audience in mind and she ought not be ostracized for telling her life story. That being said, I'm pleased her book has sparked so much passionate dialogue about the systemic barriers keeping women from climbing the economic ladder. Sandberg's publicity is shedding light on an undeniable fact: that when it comes to women's career advancement across all income levels, the workplace is in need of a policy revolution. A true "workplace revolution" has very different meanings for Chicago's women but two things remain constant: women want equal pay and a minimum wage that is not stuck in the dark ages.

Equal Pay for Equal Work

Within the "women's workplace revolution," equal pay for equal work is a high priority. Equal pay is a war we've been fighting for fifty years and for women in the middle class, it has been an ongoing battle. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 aimed to end gender wage disparities, but here we are in 2013, still working on this unfinished business. Today, women continue to make 77 cents for every dollar men make in wages. According to CFW grantee Women Employed, the gap becomes wider when we look at the intersection of race and gender with African-American women making 62 cents and Latina women 54 cents for every dollar made by their white male counterparts.

Because of unequal pay, women must work longer than a man for the same amount of pay. Soon after the Equal Pay Act was passed, a group of organizers started Equal Pay Day. Since 1966, people have gathered on this day as a public awareness event. This year, Equal Pay Day is April 9 and here in Chicago, hundreds of women and men from various organization, professional associations, labor groups, civil rights organizations and others are showing their commitment to equal pay. The rally will be held at Daley Plaza at noon and various speakers and presenters will discuss how to solve wage inequity.

Increase the Minimum Wage

A second priority within the "women's workplace revolution" would be an increase in the minimum wage. Did you know that Congress has raised the minimum wage only three times in 30 years? In February 2013, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn proposed an increase in the state's minimum wage from $8.25 to $10 an hour over the next four years. According the National Women's Law Center, the Fair Minimum Wage Act (H.R. 1010/S. 460), a federal law, would gradually raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 per hour and increase the tipped minimum cash wage from $2.13 per hour to 70 percent of the minimum wage.

An increased minimum wage is a win-win for the nation, especially for women and people of color. If $10.10 per hour was the new minimum wage, families would see an increase of annual earnings by $5,700 to $20,200. While this is nowhere near the requisite hourly wage needed to ensure a single working mother can pull her family out of poverty, it is a move in the right direction: because women make up six in ten Illinois workers who were paid minimum wage or less in 2012, the boost in their wages would get them closer to fair pay.

Of course, these are just two policy changes that ensure all women have the equal opportunity to advance in their careers and thrive. Indeed, there are many more issues to consider -- like affordable childcare and paid sick leave.

Sheryl Sandberg says, "If we could get to a place of true equality, where what we do in life is determined not by gender but by our passions and interests, our companies would be more productive and our home lives not just better balanced but happier." I could not agree more. While I appreciate the main thesis of Sandberg's book, that as individuals women must take it upon themselves to propel their career toward professional success (and encourage other women to do the same), we must have fair access. As others have pointed out, without addressing the systemic and structural issues prohibiting women from true career advancement, and the type of workplace revolution I've begun to outline, how can we truly expect most women to "lean in" much more than just getting through the day and ensuring their children are cared for?]]> Making Chicago the City Where Women and Girls Thrive tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2013:/theblog//3.2964144 2013-03-27T17:56:40-04:00 2013-03-27T17:56:44-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
Perhaps I'm biased, but Chicago is a special place for women. The women who hail from this city are more than historic; they are change agents. When I think of why we have a Women's History Month, I think of Jane Addams, a renowned social worker and activist. Jane Addams' settlement house became a model of social reform. She was a voice behind some of the largest issues of that time including the rights of immigrants, women and children. And later when the Unites States entered World War I, Jane Addams again used her voice to assist Herbert Hoover in relief work of food to women and children of the enemy nations. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931, the second woman to ever receive the coveted honor.

But, history is also being made everyday by new, emerging leaders. Recently, Chicago Foundation for Women honored five remarkable women at the 2013 Impact Awards, "Investing in Girls, Securing the Future." The women were being recognized for their commitment to providing life-changing programs and services that help girls grow and become the next generation of leaders. I like to think of this annual awards event like the Peace Prize for women in Chicago. The event started in 2005 and since then, over 50 visionary leaders who are advancing the well-being of women and girls in Chicago have been recognized. This year's honorees were a diverse set of women who are using art therapy, peace centers, spoken word, mentoring, and advocacy to help young girls throughout Chicago with the many challenges they face.

The honorees chose to step up and change the status quo for girls. They did not let their age, education, background or any preconceived notions of perceived power, discourage them from living out a their life mission to help girls thrive.

Felipa Mena, one of the 2013 Impact Honorees, is a wonderful example of a Chicago woman making history today. Felipa's life changed drastically on July 15, 2009. On that night her 20-year-old son, Angel, was shot and killed just steps away from Felipa's West Town home in Chicago. Despite this personal tragedy, Felipa has courageously dedicated her life to ending the systemic violence plaguing our community and helping to uplift children in Chicago's poorest neighborhoods. She created the Wells High "Peace Center." For the past three years, twice each week, she has worked with young women in peace circles, providing a safe place to talk about what's happening in their lives, receive mentorship from women leaders, increase their self-esteem, and learn peacemaking-skills. Participants credit Felipa's efforts with keeping them in school and helping them navigate relationships, including unhealthy power dynamics. Felipa is truly an example for us all to step up.

Leaders like Felipa and other Chicagoans like her ensure that girls are empowered, confident, and strong. Chicago's women and girls have a chance at a brighter future because of the work of women like Jane Addams, Dawn Clark Netsch, and the countless other women who are perhaps not as famous, but have dedicated their lives to giving women and girls a life full of opportunities.

This month, in honor of Women's History Month, let's all come together as women to support solutions to help other women. Let's work with women like Felipa to make Chicago, "The City Where Women and Girls Thrive."]]> Proud to Be a STEM Girl tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2013:/theblog//3.2662593 2013-02-11T17:03:43-05:00 2013-04-13T05:12:01-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
My interest in STEM started in high school, when I often challenged my best friend in algebra contests. We competed to see who could finish the most problems in one minute. I loved the game, the problem-solving.

Later on, while studying for a final matriculation exam at home in India, I vividly recall a conversation I had with my father about career aspirations. I wanted to be a literary critic. He listened as I waxed on, without interrupting and said, "That is good, but you have a talent with math. Use it."

I was lucky. I knew people who had careers in math and science. My grandfather was a mathematician, one of my uncles is a physicist and another a metallurgist. Math and science was all around me. This is not true for most girls.

More girls need encouragement to pursue STEM careers. The Girl Scout Research Institute recently published an extensive report called "Generation STEM: What Girls Say about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math." The report highlights the perceptions, attitudes, and abilities of girls who are interested in and girls that are not interested. Many of the statistics within the study mimic my own life, including:
  • 76 percent of STEM girls say their parents have pushed them to think about what they want to do when they grow up compared to 67 percent of non-STEM girls

  • More than two-thirds (68 percent) of STEM girls report that their fathers encourage them to pursue STEM, compared to 35% of non-STEM girls.


But what about the girls who don't have those models? Exposure to professionals in STEM, especially women role models, is critical to a girl's success in the field. Girls may be interested in STEM, but what they lack is adult support and mentors to turn their interest into action and a livelihood.

STEM education will give girls a better chance of thriving. According to a report, women with STEM jobs earn 33 percent more than women in non-STEM jobs.

A Chicago-based organization, Project Exploration, recently release preliminary findings from a study called "The State of STEM in Out-of-School Time in Chicago." According to the study, Chicago is moving in the right direction with engaging students in STEM:
  • Programs served as many -- or more -- girls as boys (56.2 percent and 43.8 percent respectively).

  • More than 2,032 OST STEM programs were run by more than 500 organizations in 2011.

  • Opportunities are abundant and available throughout nearly all Chicago neighborhoods.


These initial findings are promising, but also show some disparities:
  • Latinos were underrepresented compared to their representation in Chicago Public Schools.

  • Programs were very likely to target low-income students, academically at-risk students, and youth at-risk of violence. However, students who were English Language learners were not amongst targeted student populations.

  • Fewer than a third of middle school programs included mentoring as a program goal.


My work as a materials scientist opened up the door for me to learn valuable, transferable skills that I have used in my second career as a nonprofit executive. As a former "STEM Girl," I can say that science and math developed those skills and that's what I want for all girls.]]> Inaction in the U.S. Government and the Dangers for Women tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2013:/theblog//3.2457091 2013-01-11T18:17:30-05:00 2013-03-13T05:12:01-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ Congress is less popular than some of the most detested events and annoyances in American culture.

I couldn't agree more. The new year started out with the looming fiscal cliff and in the midst of that deal, Congress discussed the impact of the resolution on the economic security of our nation. They argued that averting the fiscal cliff meant securing the long-term economic stability of Americans.

Some important victories for women came out of that agreement but there were some detrimental exclusions such as the lack of any clear next steps for the debt ceiling and additional deficit reduction. The fiscal cliff deal also threatens Head Start programs and protection of the programs that women and families rely on most, including Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.

While Congress was busy arguing about the fiscal cliff, they also ignored other priorities like the pending expiration of an indispensable bill for women's economic security: the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). When the House failed to vote and renew VAWA, they sent a clear message to women voters that their safety and security from sexual and domestic violence is not important.

Initially passed in 1994, VAWA has received bipartisan support in every reauthorization until 2012. Problems for VAWA began in April 2012 when the Senate introduced a version of the bill that included three new provisions:
  • help LGBT victims receive domestic-abuse protections,

  • provide more U-visas for undocumented women in the United States,

  • offer Native American women more protection.


The House did not approve the Senate's additions and instead introduced their own version -- which eliminated inclusions of these three groups. No deal was reached before time ran out on lawmakers.
Failure to reauthorize the bill leaves many Americans in danger and threatens their economic security. If lawmakers truly cared about Americans and the economy, perhaps they would have thought twice about letting VAWA expire. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here are the costs:
  • The cost of intimate partner violence exceeds 5.8 billion each year, 4.1 billion of which is for direct medical and mental health services.

  • Victims of intimate partner violence lost almost eight million days of paid work because of the violence perpetrated against them by current or former husbands, boyfriends and dates. This loss is the equivalent of more than 32,000 full-time jobs and almost 5.6 million days of household productivity as a result of violence.

  • There are 16,800 homicides and 2.2 million (medically treated) injuries due to intimate partner violence annually, which costs37 billion.


It is time to reauthorize VAWA for all women, including Native Americans, immigrant women and individuals who identify as LGBTQ, who deserve the same protections as everyone else.]]> What Inspires Me to Give to Women and Girls tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.2259795 2012-12-17T17:46:31-05:00 2013-02-16T05:12:01-05:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
They would pass around a silver tin box and ask us to give our spare change to the fund. I was too young to carry money, but I wanted to do something. When I went home, I asked my parents for donations for the fund. Before they gave, they asked, "Why is giving this gift important to you?"

Looking back, I appreciate the lesson my parents aspired to give me. They wanted me to see that philanthropy is about giving money to work that is important to me. It is a philosophy I have applied all throughout my career and in my personal philanthropy.

I use a strategic approach to donate money to organizations that support women and girls. My giving funds work that is providing solutions. I do this for two main reasons; women are more likely to reinvest in their community and women and girls issues only receive 7.3 percent of philanthropic money. For me, this sheds light on the incredible impact and need for directing support to nonprofits that improve the lives of women and girls. If women don't support other women, who will?

The women's funding movement has had an incredible influence on how we view philanthropy. Women's movements, especially here in the United States, were a catalyst for growth within the nonprofit sector. Women's funds brought attention to social and economic issues that weren't "mainstream problems" by providing the financial resources to address them. In fact, the women's funding movement has changed what we know of philanthropy altogether.

Organizations like the Ms. Foundation and the Women's Funding Network have helped the world understand the connection between economic security, health and social issues such as domestic and sexual violence. They also have served as a key motivator for women trying to understand why they should donate and how to get involved.

Women look at philanthropy as their "duty." Recently published work shows that more women also understand the connection between money and systemic change. Studies indicate that women give more than their male counterparts, are more actively involved, and require an understanding of where their dollars are going.

And like me, women give because they want to make a difference in the lives of others. They see their philanthropy as a way to inspire the next generation. During this charitable season, donate to an organization that is working to improve the lives of women and girls and you will make a difference in communities.]]> When Women Vote, Changes Are Made tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.2093071 2012-11-08T14:48:46-05:00 2013-01-08T05:12:01-05:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ every presidential election since 1980 has seen the number of female voters surpass that of males by between four to seven million votes. The 2012 presidential election was proof; women comprised 53 percent of the total national vote. Women are a force to be reckoned with!

Women won in a big way in the 2012 election. The 113th Congress will have some new additions: a record-breaking 20 female senators, including the first openly gay senator, Tammy Baldwin from Wisconsin. New Hampshire also had a historic 2012 election; they elected the first all-women delegation in the House, the Senate and the governor's office. Talk about victory!

Now we must hold their feet to the fire. In January, the new terms for our elected officials will begin, and I want them to consider a basic blueprint as they approach their work:

Health Care and Health Access

Let us take the next few years to continue addressing reproductive justice and not go backward. We need to appoint Supreme Court justices who withhold Roe v. Wade. It is also imperative that we see increased protections for women. The Violence Against Women Act must be reauthorized, and it must include all victims of violence.

Nearly two years ago, the government enacted the Affordable Care Act. A portion of this Act addresses women's health care needs and improves women's health access. But, this is just the beginning. Let's encourage our politicians to make comprehensive health care access for women, girls and families a continued priority.

Equal Pay and Job Opportunities

The economy and unemployment will continue to be a focus for the next four years. Let us not forget 51 percent of the population.

We should pay attention to single-mothers and their economic security. Single mothers must have additional support of programs like Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), child care and other income supports. Without these services, many mothers face more difficulty providing for their families, in spite of working two or more jobs. According to the Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law, nearly 40 percent of single mothers earn less than $22,314 per year. In Illinois, 28.5 percent of female heads of households with no husbands present live in poverty. These women are not only the caregivers but also the only breadwinners for their families. They are the backbone of our communities. Politicians must make single mothers a focus.

Education

Education is connected to job opportunity and economic security. Encourage politicians to support programs that close achievement gaps and provide better opportunities to girls. Studies show that better education for girls leads to lower poverty rates and improved health outcomes for the whole family. If girls are given a fair shot at success, imagine the possibilities of their futures.

There are many more issues that need consideration, the ideas listed here are just a starter. As we prepare for the next few years, we must hold those whom we elected into public office accountable for their campaign promises. We have demonstrated our power in this election, let us continue to make sure that women and girls' rights move forward.]]> Economic Security Can Combat Domestic Violence tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1979989 2012-10-18T13:26:30-04:00 2012-12-18T05:12:02-05:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ nearly one-third of American women, we need to focus on the long-term. How can we expect victims of domestic violence to extract themselves from abuse when they do not have the financial security to provide for themselves or their families?

Thirty percent of Americans say they know a woman who has been physically abused by her husband or boyfriend in the past year. Often, people ask about what factors cause. Abusers use many ways to control their victims, money is one of them. There are also studies that show just how closely related domestic violence and economic security are to each other: Over half of women currently receiving welfare said they experienced physical abuse.

Wendy Pollack, founder and director of the Women's Law and Policy Project (WLPP) at the Shriver Center says, "Domestic violence not only leaves physical and emotional scars, but can also wreak havoc on survivors' economic security. Domestic violence can undermine job productivity, require days off work, and even cause job loss and the loss of other sources of income."

So here's what I propose: we need support for policies like the Paycheck Fairness Act and the Healthy Families Act that offer survivors long term options and provide them opportunities to break free from violence.

In 2011, women working full time in the United States earned just 77 percent of what men earned, a gap of 23 percent. The Paycheck Fairness Act aims to close pay disparities between men and women. If a woman earned a sufficient wage to take care of herself and her family, she would have options and the means to free herself from staying in a violent home.

The Healthy Families Act is an additional piece of legislation that could strengthen a woman's financial security and end domestic violence. According to the National Partnership for Women & Families, "Nearly four in ten private-sector workers -- and 81 percent of low-wage workers --don't have a single paid sick day to recover from common, short-term illnesses." In Illinois, more than 2.1 million Illinois workers -- about 45 percent of the state's private-sector workforce -- are not able to take a paid sick day when they are ill. The Healthy Families Act would require one paid hour off for each 30 hours worked which would equate to up to seven paid sick days a year.

Although neither of these bills have passed, let's use Domestic Violence Awareness month to encourage our legislators to advocate for them.

Illinois is one of the strongest states when it comes to giving women the necessary protections to remain safe and preserve their employment or economic security. In 2003, with the passing of the Victims' Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA), llinois joined other states in providing 12 weeks of leave during any 12-month period for victims of domestic violence and dating violence, stalking and sexual assault. The law also provides protection from employment and insurance discrimination for victims of domestic and sexual violence. While the act is aimed at preserving employment, it does not address the issue of a fair and living wage. If women had a fair and living wage, they would have the independence needed to live free from her abuser, or the time she might need to take care of herself if she is sick.

These three laws are just a few of important factors that can help domestic violence survivors gain economic security. We have the power to create systemic change in domestic violence if we empower women with the opportunities to have viable and long-lasting economic security.]]> Bricks and Mortar Not a Requisite for Mission tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1874698 2012-09-13T20:13:51-04:00 2012-11-13T05:12:01-05:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, there are over 55,000 registered nonprofits in the state of Illinois. With the countless organizations having to shut their doors, every nonprofit leader must ask themselves: does my innovation truly require its own infrastructure?



As the Chicago Tribune reported recently, The Eleanor Foundation, a nonprofit focused on helping single mothers attain economic security, will soon wind down its stand-alone activities and transfer nearly $7 million in assets and all of its programs to Chicago Foundation for Women. Together, the two largest women's funds in Chicago with over 140 years of collective history, will come together to form a strategic alliance aimed at increasing the economic security of Chicago women and their families.



The courage of the Eleanor Foundation must be commended. Well in advance of this transition, the Eleanor Board looked at the challenging fundraising environment and the escalating needs in the community. Their decision was not made in a time of crisis, and leadership had the time to think strategically and weigh all possible options. In the end, the Eleanor Foundation decided they would need to act if they were to secure their legacy for decades, not just for the next few years. Or, as Eleanor Foundation's Board Chair Nick Brunick says, "We are joining forces because together, we can do far more to help female-headed households reach the middle class than we can alone."



Since our founding in 1985, CFW has invested in over 100 emerging and innovative nonprofit organizations within their first three years of existence. Currently, 75 percent of these organizations are still thriving, and many have become institutions in their communities, providing necessary and unparalleled services for women and girls in need. Some, however, have folded and in some cases left a gap in services in their wake due to lack of preparedness and a hasty closure. It is clear that not all innovative and fresh ideas warrant their own staff, their own lease, or their own 501(c)3statuses, but the work may be critical and needed in the community. This is certainly a difficult conversation to have - but one I have regularly with our grantees.



CFW seeks to facilitate consolidation and other cooperative efficiencies among our grantees that can lead to stronger, more effective organizations. For example, CFW provided support for Amigas Latinas to share space and other resources with another group, Affinity Community Services, for the specific benefit of lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer people. The result is a strategic alliance in sharing basic infrastructure. Now, CFW is not just talking the talk of strategic alliances, along with the Eleanor Foundation we are leading by example.



The nonprofit sector as a whole needs to establish a new way of thinking that can stand the test of the oncoming wave of economic, social and educational challenges facing our community. CFW and The Eleanor Foundation made this important step, propelled into action due to the escalating need for women in this city to attain economic security: Nearly 15 percentof women live below the poverty line and in single mother households, the rate rises to 38.2 percent, according to the Shriver Center . According to Eleanor Foundation research, female-headed households earning less than a living wage number over 300,000 in the Chicago region and they are one of the Chicago region's fastest-growing populations. Single mothers are working harder and are better educated than they have ever been, and yet, they continue to fall behind economically. By combining the Eleanor Foundation's collaborative network of programs and assets with CFW's established fundraising platform, the Eleanor Network at CFW will raise the profile of this important population and generate even greater support for innovative programs that help address this need in our community.



The Eleanor Foundation deserves the highest praise for putting the needs of Chicago women and their families far above the need for bricks and mortar. They should be regarded as pioneers who are "in it" for the right reasons and, above all, realistic. Chicago, and especially those who depend on the nonprofit sector, needs more of this type of leadership.

]]> Girl Power: Olympics 2012 Edition tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1761096 2012-08-10T14:54:01-04:00 2012-10-10T05:12:15-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
But for women and girls, the London 2012 Summer Olympics represents something larger, something more victorious than just bringing home the gold. For the first time in Olympic history, all participating teams will have female competitors. Now, girls in each of the 204 countries competing will be able to cheer for strong women as they participate in the world's largest sports competition.

For me, the 2012 Olympics Games represent a step forward in gender equality in sports. I understand much work remains to be done, but this is a time for celebration. I'm celebrating the achievements of women athletes as equals to their male counterparts.

If we let the media outlets define what we should think about women in the Olympics, you may have a different sentiment. Even with this great concentration of talent and teamwork, we cannot seem to do away with the objectification of women.

Gabby Douglass made history by being the first African-American and first woman of color in Olympic history to become the individual all-around champion. She also is the first American gymnast to win gold in both the individual all-around and team competitions at the same Olympics. With these groundbreaking "firsts," you would think coverage about Douglass would center on how she's a hero to young girls. Not quite.

Instead, attention has been placed on her hair due to the commentary of the public on Twitter. Another media outlet even commented on her uniform "not being patriotic enough."

We are placing value on the wrong topics. Let's shake things up a bit and focus on what could make a difference to young girls such as positive body image, self-esteem and healthier nutrition. If we use the Olympics as a backdrop to conversations with young girls about exercise and nutrition, could we combat child obesity?

We should also be teaching our young girls about how some Olympians have experienced and overcome challenges faced by women and girls in our communities. Take Kalya Harrison, the first-ever American judo gold medalist. Harrison came forward to the media about her life at ages 13-16 when she was sexually abused by her coach. She once was depressed and suicidal. Kayla persevered.

Girls should also be hearing about Kellie Wells, another teenage sexual abuse survivor. Kellie committed her energy, mind and body to training in an effort to overcome the abuse. This bronze medalist wants other survivors to know, you don't have to be a victim. The topics of abuse and violence are all too familiar. These women show us that it does not have to stop us from achieving our chosen path to success. For athletes, the Olympic Games are a representation of being one of the best in the world. These athletes represent their countries with pride for an opportunity to secure a spot on the winner's podium.

Olympians are professionals. They train, perfect and practice their craft because they want to be the best. If I could moonlight as a sports commentator, my broadcast wouldn't focus on the female athletes dress size or hair. I would talk about the success of Gabby Douglass. I would highlight the strength of Kayla Harrison and Kellie Wells. And when I mention image and confidence, I'd use Holley Mangold, a super heavyweight, who is proud of her body, all 350 pounds of it. My viewers would know that women in the London 2012 Olympics, just like their male counterparts, are champions for their athleticism and determination.]]> Advocacy: A Tried and Successful Tradition of the Women's Movement tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1665227 2012-07-12T12:27:07-04:00 2012-09-11T05:12:10-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
One could argue that 1848 was the year the Women's Movement officially began. It was at Seneca Falls, and the first Women's Conference was held in hopes of tackling access to higher education, women's medical issues, and equal pay for women. In the 1960s, similar issues were the focal points of the movement, but more emphasis was placed on reproductive rights and a woman's role in her family. It's 2012 and we're still talking about the same issues -- women's health and pay equity. If anything, there appears to be a very concerted effort to reverse the gains that we have made in the past 60 years.

Despite the "war on women," most women I talk to are optimistic. We are focused on how to redirect the conversation and focus it on the issues facing women and their children everyday. The women I talk to, and work with, understand the power that can be unleashed through effective advocacy. Advocacy amplifies a woman's voice and starts a conversation about what is needed for change, while building new support for the work. Advocacy creates a force that unites communities.

For decades, women have been harnessing the power of advocacy to bring attention to the issues that affect them the most. Feminists like Gloria Steinem, activists and authors like Maya Angelou, and global leaders like Madeline Albright, former Secretary of State, have all used their influence and their experiences to promote a collective voice about their vision of women for the future. These women, and many like them, also used their voices to shift the conversation from what's wrong with our society to a dialog about solutions to fix it. The Women's Movement provided an honest and concise vision for women and girls.

Within that shift, there is noteworthy distress about the younger generation of women and if they will continue the legacy of the pioneers before them. Recently, Nancy Keenan stepped down from her position as president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, the country's oldest abortion-rights advocacy group. Keenan believes that new momentum and younger leadership of millennials is required in the Women's Movement.

Who are the new, vibrant and innovative young women who will take the power of advocacy and shift the status of women? What is their vision for creating and maintaining total change for women?

We can look to women like Ai-jen Poo, a labor organizer, who successfully works on policy initiatives and lobbying for immigrant women workers. We also have women like Sandra Fluke, women's health advocate, who has used her voice to bring attention to student health-insurance plans. And for those that think teenagers are too young to make an impact, pay close attention to Julie Bluhm. The 14-year-old gathered over 84,000 signatures for her petition that persuaded Seventeen magazine to end the practice of altering the body and face images of the girls in the magazine.

There's no question that women are headed in the right direction with the leadership of young activists at the helm. These women are equipped to carry on the legacy of advocacy that came before them in new and exciting ways. Our society needs to ready itself to fully accept the challenges and solutions these young women offer. Under their leadership, our world will be a better, equal and just place.]]> Protection Only for the Few: Do You Qualify? tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1572307 2012-06-06T15:43:12-04:00 2012-08-06T05:12:10-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ Certain women are expendable, at least according to some legislators.

An important piece of legislation, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), is stirring up controversy in its reauthorization. The Senate and House both recently passed versions reauthorizing VAWA with new provisions but, the House's bill significantly abandons the long-standing protections of the past for battered immigrant victims while completely omitting Native American and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) victims. Needless to say, the public outrage is much deserved. The act has received bipartisan support in every reauthorization since its inception, but for the first time in its history, there's significant partisan division.

If passed, the House VAWA bill could leave many marginalized communities defenseless against abusers. It begs the question: are certain groups of women expandable to our leaders?

Senate VAWA bill vs. House VAWA bill
Through the Senate's bill, there are three new provisions:
- help LGBT victims receive domestic-abuse protections,
- provide more U-visas for undocumented women in the United States,
- offer Native American women more protection.

The House took another approach. Their draft strips the extended protections for abused immigrants by creating obstacles to obtain economic assistance and legal options such as the ability to obtain U-visas. Usually, the VAWA allows immigrants an opportunity to petition for residency on their own when their spouses are abusive. These petitions are handled by a group with extensive domestic violence training. Under the House bill, immigrant women would instead be sent to local immigration offices, which often not accessible and could require women to travel hundreds of miles for an unguaranteed interview. The House bill also would require VAWA petitions to be suspended until other related legal cases are resolved.

Mony Ruiz-Velasco, director of legal services at the National Immigrant Justice Center says, "Battered women often suffer in silence because they fear losing their children, their home or their community. The stakes are even higher for abused immigrant women, who fear deportation and permanent separation from their children. Far too often, abusers hold all the power."

The House is sending a clear message about its stance on the well-being of domestic violence survivors: only certain groups should be consulted and only those selected will be protected. All survivors of violence deserve equal support and absolutely no group should be left out of receiving lawful protections.

I encourage you to reach out to your legislators to make sure that the safety of all women is protected.]]> Mommy Needs a Job tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1474268 2012-05-08T11:19:06-04:00 2012-07-08T05:12:08-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
I was reminded of this recently when I traveled to India to celebrate my mother's 80th birthday. Over 100 people attended the event to celebrate my mom's legacy and the influence she's had on their lives. As I sat and listened to the stories about my mother, I was reminded about her influence on my own economic security. My mother often spoke to my sister and I about the importance of education and career opportunities that would help us gain security for our future families.

Just like mine, moms today want better opportunities and clear pathways out of poverty for their daughters. Young girls need to be empowered and exposed to industries where they are underrepresented, such as STEM (sciences, technology, engineering and math). As a trained engineer, I have experienced the opened doors that coincide with training in these sectors -- and I am not alone. According to a report from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economics and Statistics Administration, women with STEM jobs earn 33 percent more than women in non-STEM jobs. Imagine the type of health care, food and education Mom could provide for her family with these extra funds.

Another "gift" Mom really wants this May is equitable pay, and I can see why. There are approximately 612,607 female-headed households in Illinois and 28.5 percent or 174,593 are living well-below the poverty line. A recent report commissioned by the Chicago Foundation for Women and conducted by Voices for Illinois Children informs us the situation is worsening: Unemployment rates for single moms increased from nine percent in 2007 to 14 percent in 2009.

Nearly 50 years ago, President John F. Kennedy passed the Equal Pay Act which aimed to end gender wage disparities. At that time, women earned 59 cents for every dollar a man made. In 2010, women earned 77 cents for every dollar earned by men, a 23 percent gap. For women of color, the numbers are worse: African-American women earned 64 cents and Latina women earned 48 cents to every dollar a white man received.

At this pace, women will achieve pay equity in the year 2101.

Contrary to what some might suggest, the gender wage gap occurs not because women chose to work less, and certainly not because women don't care about money as much as men. It occurs because women are hired at a lower rate and receive smaller pay increases once a job is secured.

According to the National Partnership for Women & Families, if the gender wage gap was eliminated, a working woman in Illinois would have enough money for approximately:
  • 108 more weeks of food (2.1 years' worth);

  • Seven more months of mortgage and utilities payments;

  • 14 more months of rent;

  • 36 more months of family health insurance premiums (three years' worth);

  • 3,148 additional gallons of gas.


We also know that caring for children is a full-time job in and of itself. Keeping that in mind, another great gift for Mom this May is paid sick leave.

No one should have to choose between taking care of their families and getting paid. If Mom or her child gets sick, she needs to take off of work to provide medical care. For many women, this decision comes with a heavy burden. The National Partnership for Women & Families also says that "Nearly four in ten private-sector workers -- and 81 percent of low-wage workers -- don't have a single paid sick day to recover from common, short-term illnesses." In Illinois, more than 2.1 million workers -- about 45 percent of the state's private-sector workforce -- are not able to take a paid sick day when they are ill. It is obvious to me, and hopefully you, that the Illinois legislature should move quickly to pass the Healthy Workplace Act, which would allow employees to earn paid sick days per year and provide leave for illness or the illness of an employee's family member.

For over 100 years, Americans have used Mother's Day to honor mothers for their love, commitment and dedication to their families. This Mother's Day, I encourage you to truly celebrate mothers everywhere by advancing policy and programs that promote their lasting economic security and allow their families to thrive.]]> A 365 Day-a-Year Problem tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1403575 2012-04-04T18:02:06-04:00 2012-06-04T05:12:02-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ A month of sexual assault awareness is good, but what women really need is year-round action.

If you are reading this, chances are you know that April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. You are probably also mindful of the startling statistics: rape harms one in five women in America and criminal sexual assault is reported three to four times per day in the city of Chicago -- not to mention the hundreds of occurrences that go unreported. With these odds, it is very likely you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual violence in her lifetime.

Let's be clear -- I fully agree with the need for awareness months. Our community can only benefit from the reminder of topics that can be hard to face. This becomes increasingly true as we see sexual violence becoming engrained within the undercurrent of our every-day lives and in popular culture. Or, as Yesenia Romo, director or sexual violence and support services at YWCA Metropolitan Chicago succinctly puts it, "the sexual exploitation of women has evolved from an overt act, to an insidious and muted message reinforced by popular culture. Popular culture has provided an avenue to make sexual exploitation of women both alluring and acceptable."

A recent example is Belvedere Vodka's attempt to create viral buzz by posting a new ad. The image on the ad featured a woman in distress as she struggles to get out of a man's arms. The copy read, "Unlike some people, Belvedere always goes down smoothly."

The backlash to this ad and the timing of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, indeed offers us an opportunity to unite and recognize the real threat of sexual violence that every woman faces. We also have a chance to insert the perspectives of men in the conversation. Still, we cannot allow our fight to end violence against women be carried on the shoulders of brief surges of public backlash and outrage.

Case in point: take a look at the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The bill, which garnered broad bipartisan support in 1994, provides essential federal funding to states and local communities for rape crisis centers and brings prosecutors of sexual crimes to justice. The third reauthorization of the bill began like the others before it: widely uncontroversial. But now, some conservative lawmakers have issues with expansions in the bill, including the direction of services to same-sex couples and battered illegal immigrants. In my view, these are all necessary changes that evolve with the growing needs of underserved populations. Unfortunately, many of our public leaders don't see it that way and we once again find ourselves playing defense on battles we should have already won.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month indeed affords us a unique opportunity to shine a light on the violence that many women and girls face. But, I call on both women and men to do more. We all know that sexual assault is a year-long, 365 day-a-year issue. If we want to truly end this violence, we need year-long attention and action to keep women and girls safe, and to make sure those who commit or encourage sexual assault are held accountable.
]]> What Do Women Really Want? Try Asking. tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1325396 2012-03-07T12:33:57-05:00 2012-05-07T05:12:02-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/
I have a novel suggestion: Try asking us.

It may seem like a simple suggestion, but not one that is being acted upon. For example, we have all been watching as the debates over Komen/Planned Parenthood and contraceptives unfold across cable news networks. Perhaps like me, you were puzzled as male after male commentator discussed these issues while ostensibly carrying the banner of "women's health expert." In fact, when it came to whether employers should cover insurance costs for contraceptives, research shows that male commentators out-represented women two to one on cable news programs. And, throughout the month of February -- a month focused on birth control and women's health issues -- only four women appeared on the major Sunday news shows.

Women are also being excluded when it comes to policy decisions that directly impact their health and well-being. Women were practically non-existent at recent House Committee hearings on insurance coverage for contraceptives.

Here in Illinois, the male-dominated House Agriculture Committee (four women, 11 men) has decided to drive the discussion on whether women should be required to view ultrasounds before obtaining abortions. This is not only absurd, but serves as a reminder of an even bigger problem: Women are not proportionately represented among our public leaders. Since five women were elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992 in what was called "The Year of the Woman," the representation of women in national politics remains shameful at best. Of our 100 U.S. senators, only 17 are women. In the House, women constitute 17.7 percent of the membership, or 77 out of 435.

Women also remain a minority among the leaders of corporate America. According to The Chicago Network, while the number of women directors increased last year, we still only represent 15.6 percent of corporate boards. Take a closer look at the executives of Chicago's business community and we are actually moving backward: the percentage of women executive officers decreased to 14.9 percent from 15.8 percent in 2011.

Women should be adequately represented in every debate, discussion and decision that directly impacts us and our families. We don't ask for quotas, but ask how can governing bodies, businesses, or a Sunday talk show produce good decisions or honest reporting without asking women for their opinions?

The issues facing women and girls today are complex and interrelated. Although women have come a long way, the fact remains that if women continue to be ignored when issues impacting us are discussed, there should be no doubt that these problems will worsen. I will be bold and speak for 51 percent of the population for a moment here: We need to demand to be consulted when issues pertain directly to us and our bodies. We demand not only a single seat at the table, but the full and fair representation needed to advance the lives of women and girls, and to turn back attempts to deny us critical resources.
]]> State Budget Needs a "Rendezvous" With Women's Reality, Too tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.1298190 2012-02-24T12:03:57-05:00 2012-04-25T05:12:01-04:00 K. Sujata http://www.huffingtonpost.com/k-sujata/ proposed 2013 budget plan, what he calls his "most difficult" budget yet, focuses on the big-dollar-sign issues of Medicaid, state pensions and corporate tax loopholes.

While I applaud the governor's proposed increases to MAP grants for low-income students, early childhood education and veterans programs, all three very important issues to women and their families during this recession, this "rendezvous with reality" needs to make one more appointment: with women and girls.

To prevent women from bearing an unfair burden of cuts and closures, community-based human services cannot be put on the chopping block. Illinois Partners for Human Services estimates at least $600 million in reductions in the 2013 budget to the departments overseeing human services, children and family services, and public health. These cuts follow on the heels of an 18-percent, $693-million cut last year, and $4.5 billion is owed in back bills to state providers.

Women are overrepresented in the rolls of these agencies, both on the client and the employee side. How can we justify cuts to emergency care for victims of domestic and sexual violence, substance abuse programs that help women stay out of prison and keep their families whole, and assistance for young mothers living in poverty?

Ralph Martire, president of the bipartisan think-tank Center for Tax and Budget Accountability (which Chicago Foundation for Women has funded in the past), noted on WTTW's Chicago Tonight on February 22 that Illinois ranks 43rd out of all U.S. states for the percentage of our GDP spent on public services, despite having the fifth largest population.

As a funder in the private sector, I know that philanthropy can't make up the difference. We are just a flea on the elephant of government funding. As such, it's our job to be a pest. As Mr. Martire said, "We are cutting [human services] consistently and frankly we cannot cut our way out of this problem." A focus on expenditures will only get us so far, so progressive tax reform that will increase revenue is a requirement to right the ship.

Women and girls are already receiving such a wafer-thin slice of the pie, and there's no room to trim it further without creating a domino effect that will hurt women, their families and their communities. I urge the governor and legislature to find a way to preserve critical human services while pursuing a realistic and progressive budget plan.]]>