Our Shared Responsibility Toward a Respectful Leadership Landscape : Issue 02

Standing Against the Vitriol and Destructive Attacks on Women Leaders

Recent derogatory comments by Presidential Candidate Donald Trump about VP Kamala Harris for President, 2024 and Hillary Rodham Clinton highlight a deeply troubling trend: a concerted effort to undermine and discredit women who achieve leadership roles. These attacks are not mere personal insults; they represent a broader, entrenched effort to diminish and dehumanize women in power.

The hypocrisy and audacity of these attacks are glaring. Trump, who has been convicted of sexually assaulting a woman and has paid millions in damages for his crimes, openly sexualizes women in his rhetoric. He has publicly made disturbing comments about his own daughter, including statements that he would date her if he weren’t her father and referring to her voluptuous body. Additionally, he has been recorded boasting about his ability to grab women’s bodies because he is a “star.” Given this record, his attacks on Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton are not just deeply hypocritical but also emblematic of the larger issue of sexism and dehumanization in politics.

Women leaders frequently face relentless attacks on their credibility and character, including:

• Questioning Qualifications: Women often encounter skepticism about their qualifications, regardless of their proven expertise and achievements. For instance, despite holding a master's degree, an addictions certification, and extensive experience working for two Members of Congress, I faced significant scrutiny when running for mayor. My qualifications were questioned even though I had more governmental experience across the political spectrum than any of my mayoral opponents. This skepticism invalidates women’s accomplishments and perpetuates the stereotype that women must constantly prove their worth, implying that their successes are anomalies rather than the result of skill and hard work.
• Accusations of Affirmative Action: Women’s achievements are sometimes attributed to affirmative action rather than their competence and dedication. This diminishes their genuine accomplishments, suggesting that their success is due to gender rather than merit. It reinforces harmful stereotypes that women are not truly capable but are given opportunities as a form of tokenism.
• Sexual Deviance: False, salacious accusations are used to tarnish women’s reputations and distract from their professional merits. As a mayor, I was subjected to false sexual innuendos spread on social media. These attacks not only assaulted my personal integrity but also had profound effects on my family and friends. They are designed to dehumanize and discredit women by reducing their roles to scandal rather than celebrating their skills and leadership. Such attacks create doubt and deflect attention from their achievements.

Gender Dynamics and the Expectation to be “Likable”

In addition to these attacks, women in leadership roles face unique gender dynamics. The Barbara Lee Foundation research highlights that “likability” is a crucial factor in women’s electability. Traits such as being strong, powerful, assertive, and uncompromising—qualities that are often celebrated in men—can make women less “likable.”

Throughout my career, I’ve been told that I have a strong personality. My response has always been to question whether people want strong leaders or weak ones. A man does not have to navigate the same perceptions of strength in leadership.

The Role of White Men and the Privilege of Ignorance

A recent discussion by Robby Soave and Jessica Burbank about celebrity endorsements reveals a disturbing reflection of white privilege. Soave expressed gratitude that celebrities like Kaitlyn Clark and Patrick Mahomes are avoiding political endorsements, lamenting the presence of politics in all aspects of life, including entertainment. However, when Colin Kaepernick protested police violence by taking a knee on the football field, President Trump had no qualms about bringing politics into the situation.

This perspective reflects a privileged viewpoint that overlooks how politics permeates every aspect of our lives. From regulatory agencies and public policies to local government decisions, politics influences everything. Racism is embedded in our institutions and systems, and acknowledging this is crucial for understanding why political engagement is vital in all areas of society.

Call to Action: Men’s Leadership and Accountability

While organizations like Emerge Represent Women Vote Run Lead Vote Mama She Should Run , Higher Heights for America , and Mayors Innovation Project are working to raise awareness around the issues women face—particularly as barrier-breakers—men must step up and lead on this issue. It is not enough for women to bear the burden of challenging systemic sexism and discrimination alone. Men need to be allies, using their privilege and positions to advocate for change, support women, and challenge toxic behaviors and attitudes.

Reflect on this: How does failing to stand against the dehumanization of women impact the daughters you are raising and the future generations of women?

The consequences extend beyond individual careers; they shape societal norms and influence how young women view their own potential and mental health.

Engage in this conversation. Hold each other accountable. Advocate for a respectful and equitable leadership landscape. The change starts with all of us.

How will you begin making the necessary change toward a respectful leadership landscape? Comment below.

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