Feminism in the workplace.

Is it safe in 2019 to expose yourself as a feminist in a corporate environment?

For some maybe not, and not everyone needs to be a martyr. So if you don't have the privilege, you are welcome in my book to stay hush!

However, for those of us, like myself, that are privileged enough to have a support system to catch us, including our own personal savings, in the event the company takes action against you - run wild, sister.

 I was recently invited to a company wide trip to a male baseball game, and I declined. I even went as far as to email my HR department stating, "I boycott male sports". I am only a little nervous that they will take action, as it is a start-up. However, going would make my blood boil and possibly make me vomit, so no thanks.

 I make it a point to be an activist in my daily life, as I am absolutely OVER being surrounded by men who speak over me, speak more than me on topics they aren't as well versed on, and being HEARD and agreed with more than me. I also would argue that it will only make you feel stronger, the next time.

 Here are some ways you can be an activist in your male dominated work-space:

1. Ask HR to start a Women's Empowerment Group (and invite the men!), you need men on your side, be open to bi-partisanship
2. Start a diversity & inclusion committee and prioritize black women. Don't make it all about feminism, this will take some pressure off you.
3. If a man speaks over you consistently, take him to HR. From personal experience, I wouldn't handle it directly with him first. He may retaliate and get to you before you get to him, or worse, make something up about you to get you in trouble first (happened to me!)
4. If you have a terrible male boss, ask your HR department to transfer you to another department, if possible, with a female boss
5. Being yourself is enough, you are being an activist simply by being yourself in "their" space - so TAKE UP SPACE!

 And, don't worry, I made sure to save that email just in case the company decided to take any action against me ;).

 XO, Annabella