Even before I went to the UN, I often would want to say…
“Even before I went to the UN, I often would want to say something in a meeting - only woman at the table - and I'd think, 'OK well, I don't think I'll say that. It may sound stupid.' And then some man says it, and everybody thinks it's completely brilliant, and you are so mad at yourself for not saying something.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker describes the frustration of being silenced in meetings, noting that men often receive praise for similar ideas.
In simple terms: Women often hesitate to speak up, while men get credit for the same thoughts.
Key Takeaway
Encourage speaking up and challenge bias.
Themes
gender dynamics
workplace confidence
communication
Mood
frustrated
determined
Type
motivational
reflective
When to use this quote
- corporate meetings
- political forums
- academic seminars
Key Concepts
self‑advocacy
leadership
gender bias
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can organizations take to ensure equal voice?
- How can individuals overcome fear of judgment?
A Different Perspective
Systemic bias can be hard to confront directly.