♀♀girl power♀♀

Today is International Women's Day. In a country where boys are more valued than girls (similar to China), I would not have thought that such a day was recognized. Ironically, I had never heard of this day until now. One would think that in the western world, where there is a perception that women are equals (or at least that's how it is marketed), this would be a big event.

Some retailers offer discounts to women on the day. Flower arrangements are sent to women, whether clients, family members, friends or coworkers. It is similar to Valentine's Day except it is more of an equal opportunity celebration. It is a time to celebrate and appreciate all the women in one's life.

Having dealt with the glass ceiling that many pretend isn't there but in fact never went away in corporate America, I had geared myself up for the full force of the double standard and repression. However, our CEO is female; women have a reputation of being hard workers while men are known as lazy; and more women are in the business sectors while men are in engineering careers. My appetite was whet to see how the day would play out - would it be more of a celebration that women put on for themselves?

Since it is busy season and many of our staff are at client sites, our celebration started with a flower contest on Saturday. While it made sense, I didn't think that there would be much of a turnout other than those that had to come in to work anyways. I was amazed by the turnout - mix of male and female, which included administration, HR, tea ladies, staff and partners. Many came in just for the event. The flowers were donated and some of the teams were led by men. It wasn't just about putting a flower arrangement together, but the teams had to explain their arrangements, theme and inspiration. Some even brought in props to go with their arrangements. While it was a contest with prizes, there were such elaborate and meaningful presentations.

The women received a special card from the CEO today, which included a gift certificate to purchase lingerie (another thing you wouldn't see in the states today given all the political correctness). I temporarily sit with the tax function, and the tax men chipped in and surprised their ladies, including me. Roses were laid out on each woman's desk when she showed up to work. In the afternoon, they gave a nice speech and presentation of sweets, as well as a promise of two gifts for each lady (which somehow got delayed so the special day will be stretched out another day when they receive gifts).

I have been to a number of business meetings. I am constantly surprised by the respect and treatment I get that surpasses what I received in the US. I haven't fully figured out whether this is due to the foreign factor or the fact that the glass ceiling is a bit higher.