Vote on Desiree Davidson's Story
Were they afraid we were planning a coup d'etat?
I spent my first summer during Columbia Law School at a firm in Philadelphia described as one of the best places in the city for black lawyers. I believed that if there was any place where I would have an equal chance at opportunities, be treated fairly and succeed, this would be it. There were three black female summer associates out of sixty that year but any time all three of us were in an office talking, one of the partners would knock on the door to see how we were doing. It happened too often to be a coincidence that sometimes we would purposely agree to meet in so-and-so's office to test our theory that we were being monitored. Like clock work, ten minutes after we would get together a partner would stop by.
Biotechnology/Pharmaceutical
I went to a meeting once and there were pictures of naked women as part of this person's presentation.
I had a "this is the last straw" moment in a genetics laboratory when, despite doing all the work and having just as much experience as any one else in the lab, I was told my opinion didn't count because I only had a bachelor's degree.
What was the point of working my butt off if there was never going to be any benefit? I left the lab and went back to school.
Anyone would have said, "thank you"
I am often questioned, some times ridiculed for not drinking alcohol at social events after work. Co-workers also often look down on fasting.
Sometimes I am provoked into political discussions that lead to uncomfortable situations with co-workers.
Badra Lubab
I almost think its better when barriers and other forms of discrimination are blatant because when its subtle you start wondering if these things are happening to you because you aren't smart enough.
