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90 per cent of female academics experience sexism
Female and non-binary academics are experiencing sexism at alarming rates, according to a recent survey, with staff reporting their male colleagues are interrupting them in meetings, speaking to them rudely, and downplaying their accomplishments.
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I was the most senior (full Professor) female academic on our faculty board, the Dean (male) was chairing a meeting getting ideas to resolve the latest issue we were facing. He did start by asking me (I was sitting directly to his right). I gave my response – he replied “Do you really think so?” – and moved on. We went around the table arriving at the last person – a male academic. He shared his idea with the Dean to which the Dean replied “I think you might be right!” The male academic responded – “I think I am – it is what Rhonda said 5 minutes ago”. Unfortunately reflects many of my experiences as female in academe for more than 30 years.