Women Seek Seat at Table After Gloria Steinem's Era

The passing of Gloria Steinem marks the end of an era characterized by significant progress for women, yet challenges persist for women entering and advancing in male-dominated professional fields. David Grinberg, an M&A attorney and father of three daughters, observed this firsthand when his 22-year-old daughter, Ily, began her career in wealth management in Chicago. Grinberg noted that Ily was frequently the only woman present in meetings and client presentations, a common experience for women in such industries. Despite Ily's success in presenting a wealth plan to a client, receiving positive feedback, Grinberg emphasized that ability alone is often insufficient for women to advance without encountering skepticism about their judgment. He has witnessed numerous successful female entrepreneurs, leading companies valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars, still face doubts regarding their decisions. Grinberg, who also serves on the Los Angeles board of Girls With Impact, a non-profit organization focused on empowering young women with business and leadership skills, represents founders and family-owned businesses, many in the beauty and wellness sectors, and a substantial number led by women. His experience underscores the critical importance of mentorship, peer support, and visible role models for women navigating careers in fields traditionally dominated by men. When asked about the most crucial element for young women entering these environments, Grinberg identified "confidence" as paramount. He articulated that early acquisition of skills and successful experiences foster a belief in one's capabilities, which then empowers them to tackle subsequent challenges. Lorraine Hariton, former CEO of Catalyst, a global non-profit organization focused on advancing women in business, echoed these sentiments, describing the current period as "fragile times" with "unfinished" work toward gender equality, even as an "era of unprecedented progress for women" concludes with Steinem's death. Catalyst has a long history of advocating for women in the workplace, conducting research and providing resources to help companies build inclusive environments. The organization's work has consistently highlighted the persistent gender pay gap, the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, and the challenges women face in balancing career and family responsibilities. The insights from Grinberg and Hariton collectively point to a continued need for systemic change and individual support to ensure women not only gain entry into all professional arenas but also secure equitable opportunities and recognition for their contributions, moving beyond simply having a "seat at the table" to having a genuine voice and influence.