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As for the foundation’s inclusion of boys to the program in 2003, Schultz feels. “It was a very good decision. Men and women work together.” It is important for children, male and female alike, to see that interaction in the workplace, Schultz says.
Gould says the yearly event allows kids more than just the opportunity to see a functioning workplace for a day, and that the lessons are numerous. She offers a breakdown of what boys and girls visiting the nation’s workplaces are exposed to. “They share their vision for their future and begin to explore job opportunities ... begin to see how their studies translate into the ‘real’ world ... learn what mom, dad, or their sponsor do at work ... learn how to work together to achieve success ... discuss the importance of balancing work and family ... understand the function of the workplace and its departments, and discover themselves.”
Last year was the first time Learning Leaders participated in the event. Says Jinnie Spiegler, vice president for programs at the Park Avenue offices of the organization: “We’re a parent involvement organization, so it just makes sense to participate in the day.”
Julia Gilliam, manager of special events at Learning Leaders, brought in her two nieces, ages 10 and 12, last year. Gilliam recalls one of the exercises in which the children walked around the office introducing themselves, asking staff members about their roles within the organization. Spiegler says this year, staff members will present a panel on different departments.
Gould estimates that 14 million employed adults took a girl or boy to work in 2004, and participation runs the gamut from large to small businesses. Feedback from the workplace organizers comes via day-after surveys.
Does our country still have a long way to go as far as gender equality in the workplace is concerned? Gould’s answer is yes. According to results from a Roper poll conducted by the foundation, 61 percent of adults still believe men and women are treated differently in the workplace.
Finally, says Gould, "Our assumptions about gender roles in work and family have to change so both our nation’s daughters and sons can participate fully in all areas of their lives."
