The 2022 theme for International Women's Day (IWD) on March 8th, is "Break the Bias." This year's campaign calls for all to imagine a gender equal world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive—where difference is valued and celebrated.
In support of IWD, we collected thoughtful reflections from faculty sharing their view about what this year's theme means to them and why it is so important in forging the way for women’s equality. Read on to hear insights from our faculty.
"Institutional biases continue to hinder women's careers, but we do see some positive signs. In our book, Glass Half-Broken, we showcased organizations that designed inclusive people practices from hiring to retention as well as developed inclusive male and female managers that run those practices. The only way to break the biases is to be comprehensive and systematic in driving the inclusive culture change."
Boris Groysberg,
Women on Boards
Faculty Cochair
"For me "break the bias" means acknowledging that every person has a unique slice of genius that should be cherished—and when unleashed can make our organizations and communities better places for us all."
Linda A. Hill
Women of Color Leadership Program
Faculty Chair
"To me breaking gender bias means, viewing each human being from a place of deep curiosity and empathy and resisting the human temptation to start from a place of judgment."
Ranjay Gulati
Designing and Executing Corporate Revitalization
Faculty Cochair
"As long as we continue to figure out any acceptable way to maintain privilege and protect the status quo, organizations and the leaders within them will be sabotaging their own efforts. We are making small steps now when we need to be making major strides confronting our biases and moving beyond them."
Thomas J. DeLong
Authentic Leader Development
Faculty Cochair
At HBS Executive Education we actively challenge stereotypes, broaden perceptions, and celebrate women's achievements to work towards creating a gender equal world. Together, we can all break the bias—on International Women's Day and beyond.
In closing, we want to say a special thank you to all of the women who are part of our Executive Education community of alumni and participants. As Cynthia A. Montgomery, Faculty Cochair of our Advanced Management Program shared with us:
"Pulitzer-Prize winning poet Mary Oliver ended a poem, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" Women at HBS Executive Education are embracing this question—on multiple levels—with gusto. It's a privilege to see them in action!"
