Anonymous was a Woman
“On many occasions in history, Anonymous was a woman”: Virginia Woolf.
TL;DR
- Women were historically absent from science due to societal roles that confined them to the private sphere.
- In Colombia, it took over three centuries for women to be admitted to university on equal terms.
- Societal expectations regarding caregiving and child-rearing continue to interrupt women's educational and professional paths.
- Women constitute only 33% of researchers and 22% of those in artificial intelligence, facing shorter careers, lower pay, and less impact in academia.
- Gender-based violence, exclusion, and stereotypes discourage girls from pursuing STEM fields.
- Prejudices, hiring practices, unequal caregiving distribution, and lack of leadership roles limit women's integration in science.
- Equality in STEM is a democratic necessity, not just about inclusion but active participation in defining future technologies.
- Financial support, scholarships, and mentorship are vital to reduce female attrition in STEM.
- Exposing girls to successful female role models in STEM boosts confidence and broadens their opportunities.