Money Talks, So Should You
Let’s talk about these coins.
First put into law in 1963, The Equal Pay Act was aimed at abolishing wage disparity based on gender. It’s a law that has not changed, despite the fact that women still make less than men.
"It's hard enough to get your dream job, you shouldn't have to dream about equal pay too."
Today is #EqualPayDay. A symbolic day that marks how far into the year women must work to earn what men earned the previous year. We believe that women should earn equal wages for equal work, and that this is a battle all people should fight. Hundreds of women have shared their salaries with FairyGodBoss and their database is a great place to research what other women in your position are making across the country. Share what you find here with your friends because our hope is that the more we openly talk about making money, the faster the wage gap shrinks.
Last year, in the spirit of transparency we asked you to share with us how much you make in your respective industries and positions across the world. We want to keep pushing this conversation forward and encourage you to talk about it with your girls, your co-workers and speak up for what you deserve. The more you share, the more you can ask for. And remember, the only ones who benefit from hush-hush salary talk are the employers.
Talent Manager, New York, 26, 75k
Wedding Photographer, 35, Florida, 35k
Creative Director, Los Angeles, 33, 98k
PR Assistant, Los Angeles, 31, 47k
Senior Partner Law Firm, Los Angeles, 55, $950/hour
Marketing Director, Los Angeles, 32, 90k
Head of Sales at Boutique Fashion Brand, Los Angeles, 31, 80k
RTW Designer, Los Angeles, 34, 80k
Director Digital Content, New York, 35, 160k
Project Manager, Los Angeles, 27, 50k
Designer, Philadelphia, 30, 97k-112k, depending on bonuses
Special Events Manager, Los Angeles, 33, 75k
Junior Designer at Architecture Firm, Los Angeles, 35, 70k. (This salary was noted as high, and the employee said she actually makes 5k more than her husband who held the same position at a different architecture firm.)
SF Ballet Starting Corps, San Francisco, 22, 40k. (This salary was also noted as high in comparison to other professional ballerinas. “They [SF Ballet] have a budget of 45 million dollars. The same goes for NYC Ballet, which has an annual budget of about 64 million dollars. The average salary for a corps dancer is closer to 30k.”
Assistant Project Manager, Los Angeles, 25, 42k
Regional Account Manager, 24, TN: 70K (commission only salary)
Project Manager, 26, Pittsburgh, PA: 55k
Mid-level Advertising Exec, 27, NYC, 65K
Executive assistant, 31, LA, 50k
Sr. Operations Analyst (Supply Chain), 25, Santa Monica (LA), 70k (before bonus)
Communications Manager, 29, Miami, FL: 51.5K (before bonus)
Mid-level Visual Designer, 24, Portland, Oregon: 65k
Social Media Editor, 21, Boston, $45K
Financial Analyst - Tech startup 57k
Digital Marketing Associate, 31, NYC, 60k
Freelance Designer, 26, Texas, 60 to 80k (varies)
Admin, 24, Chicago Suburbs, 40k
Publicist, 29, Maine, 52K
Associate UX Designer, 29, Chicago, 64k
Let’s keep this movement going. Feel like sharing? Leave us a comment.
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Why This Sought-After LA Designer Just Launched a New Line
The models are way cuter she says.
Women in LA know all about Anine Bing. In fact, women all over the world know about Anine Bing. The singer turned designer launched her self-titled line in 2012 and the response was explosive. Consumers were immediately attracted to the cool-meets-laid-back vibe of her designs. They are simple, and yet, at once, recognizable as a Bing piece.
Six years later and the designer is aiming lower. Well, height wise at least. Inspired by her daughter Bianca's desire to "dress like Mommy," the founder launched BING KIDS. A no-fuss collection at a lower price point for boys and girls.
What compelled you to launch a kids line?
It's been a goal of mine to launch BING KIDS for the last couple years now, ever since my daughter Bianca was asking to "dress like mommy." I wanted to create clothes for my kids personally that were both comfortable and cool, so when we set out to do the collection we had those two points in mind specifically.. It's a very no fuss collection with rock n roll tees, skinny jeans, joggers and sleeper sets, a really cool leather jacket, all very ANINE BING.. And we wanted it to be super versatile for both boys and girls to wear.
Is the design process different from designing for adults?
It is and it isn't.. Again, comfort and cool factor along with versatility were our priorities in designing. And I had my very own fit models right at home!
What’s your favorite part of designing for kids?
First of all, it's all SO cute.. It melts everyone's hearts to see a moto leather jacket in miniature size for a 2 year old! But I really loved and welcomed the challenge of making the line unisex. I had moms in mind when doing this because I know personally that it can be tough to get the kids dressed and out the door some mornings. So we set out to make a collection that cut that process down a little bit, and also kept the kids happy and feeling unique and cool.
Are the models cuter, be honest. That's easy - YES!
How will you balance your time between designing the adult line vs. the kids line? I have an amazing design team and we've tripled in size since the Fall so we all work together to prioritize each line but in different ways. ANINE BING is still the main focus because we just launched BING KIDS and we're only doing monthly drops instead of weekly drops for now, and only selling on eCom. But both of the lines are very close to my heart, and I can't wait to see what we do with both.
Any other secrets up your sleeve you can share with us? None that I can get TOO into, but I'll say this -- we're excited to grow our retail presence in 2018!
The full collection is available online now!
And be sure to RSVP to see Anine in person when she joins us on panel for the MINI x Create & Cultivate "More of What Matters," speaker series. RSVP HERE!
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Links From Our Group Chat: What Movie Just Beat Titanic Records & More
Plus some other awesome Monday Motivation stuff.
photo credit: Brooke Lark
Are you fully ready for Monday? If you need something to read on your lunch break, we've got a couple of links that are helping motivate our Monday blues.
We love this profile on Busy Philipps, almost as much as the one we wrote on her.
Women just broke a record. Find out which one.
What movie is now the third highest-grossing film of all time? Sorry, Jack and Rose. You just got beat.
WeWork’s Creator Awards are heading to San Francisco! Throw your business idea into the ring. Deadline to apply is April 10th. Western U.S. and British Columbia eligible to apply. Find all the categories here.
5 questions to ask at your next job interview. Jot these down.
What are you reading to kick-off your week? Comment below!
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Heading to the Desert? Here’s What You Need to Pack
Say see-ya to your packing struggles.
If you’re busy pondering that decade-old question-- what do I wear to the desert, ponder no more.
In partnership with BGBGeneration, we’ve rounded up the dream desert essentials that will seamlessly transition from pool party to polo field, day to night, and so much more.
Cotton Eyelet Ruffle-Hem Romper:
Part flirty, part fun, this cotton eyelet romper is the easiest way to do pretty, without having to worry about looking too plain. Dance the night away to Beyoncé in this sweet number.
Sunprint Floral Asymmetrical Maxi Dress:
Romance this trend with a floral dress that’s sure to beat the desert heat and bring the fashion heat. It’s easy and breezy, with a party slit in the front. Ideal for keeping it casual and sweet.
Sleeveless Cutout Denim Jumpsuit:
Look effortlessly cool in this one piece denim jumpsuit, that’s a cutout above the rest. It’s modern, functional and fashionable. What’s not to love?
Striped Tie-Shoulder Culotte Jumpsuit:
Are you spotting the trend of clutch one-pieces? It’s for keeping everything super simple, while still totally on trend. With chic spaghetti straps and a color palette that feels more south of France than Coachella Valley, you’ll be a crowd standout.
Grommet Saddle Bag:
Give your outfit a touch of tassel with this Grommet Saddle Bag, the perfect size for carrying essentials only. You’re going to want to dance after-all.
Whipstitched Floppy Hat:
You don’t have to rock a dad hat to keep the sun off of your face. Opt instead for a floppy hat that elevates your outfit, without looking that you rummaged through dad’s storage bin.
Floral Star Choker:
If you’re ready to say buh-bye to a flower crown (they can cause quite the headache after eight plus hours) a star choker is a perfect replacement. It’s not too fussy, but accessorizes any outfit with the right amount of chic.
Meet Me Backstage Tee:
And because denim shorts are a staple at any summer festival, you need a tee that says you’re going places-- like backstage.
Pro tip: Take 25% off all regular price items on www.bcbgeneration.com from 4/9 – 4/17
with the code: CREATE25
What else are you planning to pack? We recommend SPF. Share your essentials below!
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The Critical Step You Need to Take Before Asking a Question at the Office
Two words. 1 URL. Infinite answers.
Let me Google That For You which has the tagline “For all those people who find it more convenient to bother you with their question rather than search it for themselves.” has become an online sensation, resulting in Gifs, memes, and more.
There’s nothing wrong with asking a question as long as you’ve taken the proper precautions before doing so. The critical step you need to take before you ask a question at the office is simple.
Google it.
It sounds so easy and like it should be common knowledge, but there’s a reason googling prior to asking a question has become a widely appreciated internet joke. All jokes aside, taking action before asking a question about how to complete a task or what a term means will make a big difference in your career.
Why taking action will make a difference
The internet gives us the power to look up and learn just about anything, yet it seems that more and more people are lacking the drive to seek out answers themselves. According to a study done last year, 72% of CEOs are concerned about the availability of key skills such as research. There’s no problem in asking a clarifying or an explorative question, but asking to define a term or how to complete a simple task on a widely used software may come off as lazy.
By the time you type out your question in an email, you could have typed that question into your email browser and very possibly obtained the answer. Taking action and seeking out information before posing the question to someone else will help you get recognition for your initiative, will help you complete your job more efficiently, and will save everyone time.
Even if you don’t find the answer, doing research will benefit you
Even if you aren’t able to find an answer, researching your question before asking it will enable you to ask an informed and educated question. When you pose a question at work, superiors will often ask if you have done research on it, or they will point you in that direction. If you’ve already taken it upon yourself to do this step, it will make the process easier for everyone.
If you aren’t able to find what you were looking for, you can articulate this, or ask a clarifying question if your research provided conflicting answers. This shows motivation and highlights that you are willing to work for the answer instead of simply asking someone else to do it for you.
If you don’t research your question before asking, it could cause tension
From a managerial or customer service side of things, it can be very frustrating when someone asks a question about a definition or how to complete a task that could easily be accomplished by searching the question online.
Asking someone else instead of taking initiative and searching for this information yourself comes off as lazy and can also come off as disrespectful. This might surprise you, but asking someone else how to do something instead of looking up how to do it yourself can suggest that you don’t value their time. At the end of the day, time is money, and wasting someone else’s time will never serve you well.
Questions can be great tools to help you grow and thrive at the office, however it’s important that you make sure to take action and research your question before you reach out to someone else. If you take initiative, do some research, and seek out answers before asking, you’ll become more productive, more efficient, and more adept at key skills which have been waning.
What makes up a good question in your opinion? Let us know in the comments?
A native San Franciscan, Michele Lando is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individuals' application package and personal style. Aiming to help create a perfect personal branding package, Write Styles presents tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.
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Influencers Share How to Celebrate Confidence and Beauty
Plus more from our Best Face Forward #CCxClinique Miami Pop-up.
photo credit: Jessica Bordner Photo
How do your beauty and confidence line up?
It was a hot topic of the day when we gathered in Miami for our Create & Cultivate x Clinique “Best Face Forward” panel. Attendees received makeovers and tried out the Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer, enjoyed drinks and had new headshots taken before sitting down to get inspired by our panelists.
Joining C&C founder Jaclyn Johnson on panel were an awesome array of women in the beauty space in Miami.
Annie Vazquez, is a fashion, travel and beauty expert and journalist who has been coined as one of the pioneers of Miami’s fashion blogging community. She is the founder of The Fashion Poet and was voted Miami’s Top Fashion Blog by the New York Times.
But that doesn’t mean that she went into the her career fully confident.
“When I first started, I was a journalist,” Annie shared on panel. “When I moved over to blogging I asked myself, ‘Do I really want to do this? Do I really want to put myself out there for criticism?’” Her internal answer was, “Let me just do it.”
You learn to do what you want and not worry about who is going to leave you a comment. It’s a business. And even at the end of the day, if this isn’t your business it’s important to have self-love.
Martha Graeff, is a former model, stylist and Womenswear buyer for Harvey Nichols. Fashion and beauty are in her blood.
But she also had to work on building confidence.
“When I was a model,” she shared, “I would go to twenty castings and hear no. There are so many other beautiful girls. And you’re always hearing no. No. No. No. You’re not good enough. That girl has better skin. It’s always rejection. Modeling breaks you. But it also makes you stronger because you deal with rejection constantly. When I stopped modeling and started blogging I felt a hundred kilos off my shoulders.”
When it comes to negative comments online, they all agree that there have to be boundaries. Hugette Montesinos, is the Editor in Chief and Creative Director for DISfunkshion Magazine. She is also a trained life coach and college professor.
“With this mega-digital era, we don’t set boundaries any more,” Hugette shared. “For me, I have to set boundaries with what I consume-- and what I allow into my life, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.” When it comes to social media, the EIC explained, “I’m not going to aimlessly browse. I’m going to connect and share.” She furthered, “You obviously don’t have control over what comes into your inbox or private messages but you do have control over whether you chose to entertain that thought or not. We have so much more power over our thoughts. For me, every time something negative comes it, I’m able to say, ‘I’m not going to entertain this thought and I’m going to bounce it out.”
It’s one of the reasons she started DISfunkshion. “I started the mag because there was nothing out there that I could enjoy and read,” she explained. “The motto and thought-process was to create a movement that looked at beauty from the inside out. Than from the outside in-- which is what culture teaches us.”
photo credit: Jessica Bordner photo
Martha piggybacked on this idea a bit explaining, “We post our best photo on Instagram. We use five different apps before we post it. Maybe we’re not really happy, but we’re smiling.” She says meditation has changed the way she feels about everything-- and before she wakes up and checks her phone, she meditates. ‘It’s really changed the game for me and the way I see other people’s lives.”
“We need to celebrate how we’re born,” Annie added. “And that’s it.”
Daniella Ramirez, is a Miami-based blogger and the founder of Nany’s Klozet. She was born in Caracas, Venezuela, moved to Miami to attend college and hasn’t left! “When I was growing up it was all about perfection,” she said. “I remember being 9 and in my ballet class. My teacher told me, if you’re not skinnier by tomorrow, you’re not dancing.” She says it’s not the same anymore. “If you had told me 12 or 13 year old self that I would be working with brands and having this careers, I would have said, ‘I’m not tall enough for that, or I’m not skinny enough for that.’ But the world is changing and we’re accepting different body types and beauty and it’s what we should continue to do.”
“It’s also super important for us to normalize, ‘normal,’” Hugette added, to the nods of everyone on panel.
How do you feel about beauty? And how do your beauty and confidence line up? Share in the comments below!
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We're Popping Up! Join Us in Dallas with Clinique
Wanna put your best face forward?
Wanna put your best face forward? We want to help. It's why we're teaming up with Clinique to bring you a mini popup in Dallas on April 19th, 2018.
We'll be chatting strong foundations, the newest beauty buzz, and what makes you feel the most beautiful.
Panel: Best Face Forward
Speakers
The Breakdown
6:00 PM | Doors open! Enjoy Clinique beauty treatments, networking + a professional headshot station to upgrade your biz profile.
6:30 PM | Panel: Best Face Forward
7:30 PM | Happy Hour drinks + networking with your fellow Create & Cultivators!
Where
NorthPark Center | 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, Texas
The event will take place in SouthCourt on Level 1 between Neiman Marcus and Dillard's. Valet entrance is off of Northwest Highway between PF Chang's and Seasons 52.
RSVP below. This event is free with an RSVP but space is limited so make sure to put your name on the list early!
Indio Is Calling: What to Expect At Our Desert Pop-Up
Fun right this way.
We’re throwing a free party in the desert on April 14th and you don’t want to miss it. We’ll have beauty treatments, drinks and lite bites, our very own WorkParty resident DJ spinning throughout the afternoon– DJ Smiles Davis and tons shopping for you to enjoy! There’s an exciting video booth from MINI and OM Digital to deliver you your IG worthy content right on the spot.
The first 150 guests will be getting a special swag bag, so come early and ready to party!
Meet us at the Ace Hotel - 701 E Palm Canyon Drive from 10 AM to 5 PM
HERE'S WHAT'S HAPPENING
Breakfast
10AM - 12PM
Enjoy a mimosa bar, cold brew and lite bites for breakfast to keep you energized throughout the day.
We’ll be starting with beauty treatments from head to toe!
Shine on all day, but first lather on that Supergoop sun screen. Then, head on over to get pampered at the R+Co braid and bun bar. Hair done? Time for nails. Stop by the Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails bar and get fancy with Olive&June nail stickers on top! Don't forget to check out the Biossance booth for skin treatments with estheticians who'll be dishing out best practices for summer skin care.
Panel: Creator Nation
12PM-12:45PM
Our first panel of the day begins with a fun and insightful convo around the intersection of fashion, art, music and culture.
Panel: Mini Moguls
1:00PM-1:45PM
Up next, the women dominating the fashion and beauty game will be dropping gems and sharing details on how the do what they do.
Break Time
2:00PM-2:30PM
Take a dance break, grab some lite bites and drinks from La Croix! You'll have another chance to check out the beauty pop-ups and get some touch ups done.
Keynote
2:30PM-3:00PM
We’re having a very special keynote conversation that will be announced soon!
Happy Hour
3:00PM-5:00PM
Dolce Vita is hosting a happy hour to remember! Grab a cocktail and get down with your new friends.
They day will be filled with tons of fun and inspiration, we can’t wait to party in the desert with you. This event is free, RSVP only and first come, first served. That being said, there won’t be any physical tickets distributed prior and we suggest arriving early!
RSVP here and don't miss out!
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3 Must-Try Work Week Hair Hacks
Hacks for your next hairy situation.
Do you find yourself in hairy situations? We do. ‘Cause look, our hair is not always on the top of our to-do list. And why not?
We’ve got hacks for almost everything. Too busy to cook? Postmates gets it. Too busy to text? Hop on a Facetime while doing the dishes to knock out two things at once. As working women always on-the-go, the more hacks we hoarde, the better. Which is why we’re sharing work week hair hacks with R+Co, the think tank of top editorial and salon stylists and educators.
No wash day
Dry shampoo is our best friend throughout a busy week when we just have to skip wash day every now and then. For quick volume and body: DEATH VALLEY Dry Shampoo is the way to go. DV is perfect for that on-the-go refresh for any hair type.
Pro tip: liven up your post-workout hairdo with: SKYLINE Dry Shampoo Powder. SKYLINE combats extra greasy hair a la post-workout or a 4th-day mane. Yes, 4th-day hair. ;)
Not-so-messy bun
Try out CHIFFON styling mousse to make those mid-week messy updos look clean as if they’re actually on purpose. BADLANDS Dry Shampoo Paste is perfect to combat greasy areas but still leave you with a sexy, messy texture! It’s also great for those annoying greasy areas around the hairline!
Shower + run
When you gotta go, you just gotta go. R+Co’s ANALOG Cleansing Foam Conditioner is shampoo and conditioner in one and perfect for a shower and run kind of day.
Pro tip: Try throwing in some HIGH DIVE Moisture + Shine Crème on your ends to de-frizz + moisturize! Perfect for dry or damaged hair. It’s also R+Co’s best seller!
What are your favorite work week hair hacks? Let us know in the comments!
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C&C Classifieds: The Little Market, Richer Poorer, Madewell & more
No joke. Open this link.
April Fools' was Sunday so rest assured, these openings are no joke.
Get on your resume sending A game and find yourself a brand new job today!
Richer Poorer - San Juan Capistrano, CA
The Novogratz - LA, CA
The Little Market - Santa Monica, CA
Blended Strategy Group - LA, CA
Madewell - NY, NY
We #MeToo, But Now What's Next?
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Written by (Storyteller & Entrepreneur): Elizabeth Ole
Socials: @Elizabethole
So the damage is done…
You’ve finally come forward to let HR know the misdeeds of that senior manager who everyone loved but never suspected would be a perpetrator of sexual harassment. Chances are that you’ve become office enemy number one just by sharing your story. There’s no doubt that coming forward alone is difficult, but what’s even more difficult is the added pressure of dealing with the naysayers and doubters – you know the ones who either avoid you like a plague or talk endlessly behind your back about your quest for attention.
In the past year, sexual misconduct has been the topic of conversation. From the viral #MeToo movement led by Tarana Burke to the #TimesUp campaign championed by women in the entertainment industry, people have now become more socially conscious about problems that destroy the careers and lives of women everywhere. A recent poll shows that nearly half of working women say they’ve experienced harassment. Some of these women fail to come forward knowing the stigma they would have to endure at their workplace.
When it comes to sexual abuse, being “woke” just isn’t enough; victims need your support and one way to show support is by helping them re-adjust into their roles and routines. The more a victim is isolated, the more culpable they feel.
If your co-worker has been harassed, the right thing to do would be to speak up! We hear it all the time, “silence means agreement”, and the same holds true in this situation. Not speaking up against the abuser will only make your co-worker believe that you’re in agreement with him. As a fellow female co-worker, you should do your best to show empathy to the victim - simple gestures like leaving a cup of coffee on her table with a sticky note that says something encouraging or inviting her to sit next you at the cafeteria can help her feel more at ease.
If you’re a victim of work place harassment, you’ll most likely dread going back to work the minute your story is out in the open. Your mind will be occupied with endless questions – “What will my co-workers think?”, “How will I cope at work?”, “Will this affect my pay?” or “Will I be treated unfairly?”
As your thoughts begin to spiral, keep in mind that the situation you’re in is NOT your fault! Exposing your harasser is a praiseworthy thing – because it has the power to end the cycle of abuse. If anything, you’re a hero who should be celebrated for making the office a little safer for women! You shouldn’t have to give up your job because of someone else’s wrong doing.
So, knowing this, how do you make your comeback to work? Here’s how!
Suit up
Some outfits have a way of making you feel super powerful. Sometimes it’s a suit and killer high stilettos, other times it’s a super tailored shift dress and a gorgeous tote – whatever outfit makes you feel more like a girl boss, rock it! Not only will looking good bring back your confidence, it’ll also give you a sense of control.
Stay professional
Some co-workers might try to get close to you in a bid to discover the details of your harassment. Avoid getting too personal! Never engage anyone at work who wants to hear the nitty-gritty details of your assault; they most likely don’t have your best interest at heart. Be cordial with your co-workers but remember that the office is first and foremost, a place of business. Focus on your assignments and be as professional as possible.
Start a movement
Being part of a bigger cause can help you stay strong and inspired. You can start another movement or create a small community for working women who might have been harassed in your town or city. This will help you build a support system and keep your mind away from any work place drama.
Keep a journal
Keeping a journal can be quite cathartic because it helps you express your feelings in ways you might not be able to verbalize. With your journal, you can monitor your healing process and also keep track of how your work relationships are evolving.
Be optimistic
Not every co-worker is secretly plotting your downfall or seeking revenge against you. Think positively and try as much as possible not to snap at honest co-workers who extend a hand of friendship or show solidarity in some way.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is your well-being. If you’re not ready to return to your work place, it’s okay to give yourself time or start a new journey, but when you eventually do, make sure you strut into that new office with all the confidence you can muster.
Why?
Well, because you have absolutely NOTHING to be ashamed of!
Written by (Storyteller & Entrepreneur): Elizabeth Ole
Socials: @Elizabethole
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Green Queens: How Anja Charbonneau Is Changing Cannabis Culture
Just what does it mean to be a Green Queen?
Photography by Shola Lawson: www.shotbyshola.com
For Anja Charbonneau cannabis is still uncharted territory. And her crowning achievement, the print mag Broccoli, is at once a sensory experience and a fresh look at cannabis through the lens of art, culture, and fashion. Anja and her team are reinventing the stoner image. The pothead image. The smoker.
Toss what you know about weed out the window and consider this a full paradigm shift. Shipped free with a Broccoli subscription the first issue trained its eye on features such as weed ikebana arrangements, hand-blown produce pipes from Humble Pride, and Yacht singer Claire Evans.
The second, fresh off the stacks, newly released issue, features grower-turned creative Mennlay, artist Aleia Murawski, the lawyer Lauren Rudick, and the activist and filmmaker Donisha Prendergast. To name a few.
It also happens to be a magazine created and run entirely by a team of women and non-binary people. “Broccoli’s focus on women is two-fold. Behind-the-scenes, we’re a woman-owned business with an all-female team, and our contributors are all women or non-binary people,” Anja says.
Read more from the Green Queen below.
Tell us about how Broccoli magazine came to life…
Prior to starting Broccoli I was the creative director at Kinfolk, making books and magazines for the brand. I fell in love with publishing, and as the legal cannabis market was growing around me I noticed there was a gap for a beautiful, forward-thinking magazine in the space. After three years at Kinfolk I was ready for a new project, and I wanted to run my own business, so Broccoli is now my full-time gig. We’ve had an overwhelming response to launching the first two issues-- it’s incredibly motivating to suddenly be part of a massive community of women around the world who are interested in weed.
Today more than ever, legalizing marijuana seems to be at the top of the list in most political debates. Why do you feel weed should be legalized?
Cannabis isn’t as divisive as one might expect, in terms of political viewpoints in America. In fall 2017 a new poll was released that shows a majority of Republicans are actually in favor of legalization. Legal cannabis creates a lot of jobs, generates a lot of tax revenue, and there’s more and more proof that cannabis can be a very effective tool for reducing opioid use and provides new treatment options for many different medical conditions. The real work has to happen after legalization, when states are creating laws around who can get into the business. Cannabis prohibition has majorly harmed communities of color for decades, jailing people over the most minor offenses, and then in many cases these people are prevented from getting into the legal industry because of having a criminal record or not having access to the same financial resources that an investment group might have. Every step in legalization is a change to make up for this, to do better as we move forward. We believe in legal weed because it’s just a plant, and it’s one that helps a lot of people. Everyone deserves the right to have safe access to cannabis, without being judged.
Anja says,"
It’s incredibly motivating to suddenly be part of a massive community of women around the world who are interested in weed.
The magazine is directed specifically towards women, why did you choose women as your target audience?
Broccoli’s focus on women is two-fold. Behind-the-scenes, we’re a woman-owned business with an all-female team, and our contributors are all women or non-binary people. This is really rare in media, and we’re proud of it. Through our content, we are highlighting women and their relationships to cannabis, featuring women who work in the cannabis industry and those who don’t. We want to see women taking up as much space as possible in the cannabis space, so that we can grow the industry and culture in a positive way.
“We want to see women taking up as much space as possible in the cannabis space, so that we can grow the industry and culture in a positive way.”
Broccoli is free and will be distributed only three times a year, how were you able to make this available for no charge? Can you explain your business model?
We believe strongly that cannabis should be accessible, and this belief carries over to media as well. By offering a free magazine we’re encouraging more people to interact with Broccoli, which in turn will spark more conversations about cannabis. The magazine is funded entirely by brand partnerships, so we’re aligning with companies (both within and beyond the cannabis space) who share our vision to normalize cannabis. There’s a lot of creativity and innovation coming from cannabis entrepreneurs as the industry blossoms, and we’re excited to provide a platform for sharing their stories.
You chose to showcase the art and culture of cannabis, how does this differ from other weed-friendly publications?
Most existing cannabis magazines focus on the industry and feel very male-dominated, which can be alienating to a more casual user, or someone who’s just curious about weed. Broccoli celebrates cannabis while also acknowledging that it’s just part of our reader’s life, and it fits in to a whole constellation of creative interests. By connecting cannabis to art, fashion, science, food, wellness, design (or a myriad of other topics), we’re reframing weed overall, and showing that it’s already connected to many beautiful and necessary parts of life.
“Cannabis prohibition has majorly harmed communities of color for decades, jailing people over the most minor offenses.”
Who is a woman in your life you admire?
Lately I have been thinking a lot about Bjork. She is a creative powerhouse, and while she’s primarily a musician her magic transforms across mediums so easily. I have a lot of respect for how outspoken she is about her experience as a woman in the creative industry, and for how open she is to experimentation and weirdness. She also has an amazing, bizarre sense of humor and it comes through in everything she creates. I love that! She’s a genius but also hilarious.
Want more from the cannabis culture? Check back on our Green Queens series in partnership with MISSBISH. We'll be featuring a woman in weed per week!
Want even more? Register to participate in the Slack Session co-hosted with MISSBISH. Green Queens in the Cannabis Industry is going down April 25th at 6:30 PST, mark your calendars and sign up here.
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Links From Our Group Chat: Living in a Color Palette, Lena Waithe & so much more
Current mood: Sunday Scaries.
Currently experiencing a case of the Sunday Scaries?
Don't worry-- distract yourself with reading!
Instagram influencers reveal what it's like to live in one color palette.
Tiffany Haddish’s dating tips for men. Must watch.
Lena Waithe is changing the game. They don't even call it a game anymore.
Bumble CEO responds to lawsuit in a badass way.
Imagine organizing a gun reform rally before even graduating high school.
And a happy Easter and Passover to all.
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6 Things to Text Your Boss Today to Make Her Freak
April Fools' jokes, totally ill-advised.
April Fools' suffers many fools, namely those who aren't paying attention to the date. And while it's fun to play pranks on friends and fam, there are true April 1 lovers who take it to the next level: their boss.
Now first, a disclaimer. Before you embark on a text prank of the foolish variety aimed toward the person who employs you-- know their humor. We can't stress this enough. If you don't have the kind of relationship or the kind of boss who appreciates a well-placed prank, skip it and do something silly tomorrow-- like cover their car in sticky notes.
If you've thoroughly assessed the situation and know it will be fun, or total torture, for all-- proceed.
1. I QUIT.
This is the big one. Sure to get your boss' heart rate rising.
Danger zone: Red. Hide under your desk Monday am.
2. I’M NOT WHO I SAY I AM.
Are you Lara Croft? Maybe.
Danger zone: Yellow. A little bit a mellow with a side of WTF.
3. I'M HAVING A BABY AND IT'S YOURS.
Scientifically impossible.
Danger zone: Yellow. Keeping it chill and silly.
4. I'VE BEEN OFFERED ANOTHER JOB.
It pays double.
Danger zone: Yellow. Proceed with caution.
5. I NEVER SIGNED MY NDA.
Just had a chat with the LA Times.
Danger zone: Red. You better bring her donuts in the morning.
6. LOVE YOU. MEAN IT.
Because it's totally mean to make your boss sweat bullets on a Sunday.
Danger zone: Green. A well-placed 'love ya' can go a long way.
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How To Update Your LinkedIn Profile (Without Setting Off Red Flags At Work)
This is not a fire drill.
Updating your LinkedIn profile can be a major stress point if you feel like it could cause red flags at work, however the truth of the matter is that you should never feel guilty about updating your professional profile. It’s common to feel like your boss might know or think that you’re are looking for a new job, but there are simple ways to get around that issue. Here are some tips to help you update your LinkedIn profile without setting off red flags at work.
Updating your profile doesn’t mean you’re unhappy at your job
The first thing to realize is that updating your LinkedIn profile or revamping your resume doesn’t automatically mean you’re unhappy in your current role. You might have recently taken on a big project that you want to acknowledge, or maybe it’s just been a while since you’ve freshened things up. Regardless of your reasoning, you have every right to update your professional documents and LinkedIn profile without feeling guilty or scared that a manager or boss might be unhappy.
If your boss gets that upset over a LinkedIn update, (updating your LinkedIn can be considered professional development) you probably aren’t working for someone who wants to see you succeed.
If you’re still concerned about updating your profile or giving off the wrong message about it, be transparent and acknowledge the update
If you’re concerned that a manager or boss might feel like you’re going behind their back, let them know that you’re updating your profile. By coming out and telling them that you’re planning on doing an update or revamp, there’s no way for them to feel like you were being dishonest or trying to hide it.
Swing by your boss’s desk or shoot them an email saying something along the lines of “I was looking at my LinkedIn profile, and I noticed that there are a lot of projects and responsibilities that I haven’t included, so I’m going to be adding some additional information in the next few days. I wanted to let you know because I don’t want any updates or changes to catch you by surprise.” This shows that you’re open and respecting your boss by giving them a head’s up for what they can expect.
Still feel like there could be tension about it? Frame it in a way that benefits your boss/company
If you still feel like the update might send off red flags to your boss, put it into perspective for them. A great way to phrase it is, “I always want our clients to have the most updated information on their LinkedIn profiles so I can learn more about them, therefore I feel like I need to do the same in order to reflect that standard."
This statement articulates that you want to hold yourself to the same standard that you hold others to, which is great. This highlights how it will benefit you as well as benefit your clients, candidates or partners, which will in turn benefit your boss and your company.
At the end of the day, you have control of the information you put out there, and you shouldn’t feel guilty or scared about updating your LinkedIn profile. If your superior is that upset about it, you may want to look into a new role where your boss/manager wants to actually see you succeed. If you are trying to update your LinkedIn profile without setting off red flags at work, be transparent about it, and frame it in a way that will benefit everyone. At that point you’ve made a conscious effort to be respectful of your peers and authority figures, and if they’re still upset, that’s on them.
A native San Franciscan, Michele Lando is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individuals' application package and personal style. Aiming to help create a perfect personal branding package, Write Styles presents tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.
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Life Doesn't Wait for Allergies
And other takeaways from our ZYRTEC® panel.
More than 50 million people in the U.S. suffer from allergies! And that’s why we gathered in New York with the makers of ZYRTEC® to talk about spring beauty, and how to put your best face forward, even if you suffer from allergies. Panelists included: actress Jordana Brewster, Create & Cultivate founder Jaclyn Johnson, College Prepster founder Carly Heitlinger, and Alex Thomas, a trained cosmetologist and the founder of Learning to Be Fearless.
Relying on the expertise of moderator and celeb makeup artist Jamie Greenberg, the crew chatted everything from their spring beauty trends to allergy symptoms and biggest allergy challenges.
Shared Jamie, “I started working with ZYRTEC® five years ago to talk about ALLERGY FACE® - you know what I mean - watery eyes, the red nose and the puffiness that come along with allergy symptoms. Women – and men – face these beauty challenges all across the country during allergy season and we want to help. Over the years, I’ve created many tips and tricks to combat ALLERGY FACE® beauty challenges – such as using waterproof mascara to combat watery eyes. I’m excited to share some of those with you today, alongside my fellow panelists.”
“Plus,” Jamie added, “I am digging everyone’s lipsticks.” *A bonus for all.*
Now, the overall consensus was that life doesn’t wait for allergies. Nor does work.
Jaclyn shared “I’m on a flight every other week, in a different city with a different climate.” She’s always battling the elements, if you will. “With Create & Cultivate, we do so many events and a lot of those are outside and they are six to eight hours long.” Jaclyn said that for her, “it’s really about what’s going to stay the course for the entire day.” Her go-to is concealer under the eyes to hide the exhaustion during event weeks and ZYRTEC® to keep the her allergy issues at bay.
Actress Jordana Brewster, is also someone who knows the perils of traveling for work, but, as she shared, she also has to keep up with her kids. “I have two sons and my youngest does not stay inside ever, especially as soon as spring hits,” she said. “We go to the farmer’s market every week, we love going on hikes-- we’re always outside. That means I need my ZYRTEC® for relief. ZYRTEC® relieves my symptoms and makes me feel so much better. It starts working hard at hour one and works twice as hard when I take it again the next day, staying consistently strong day after day.”
The women also talked about tricks they use to stay on top of their game, even on their worst days.
Alex shared her tricks for putting her best face forward. “I get super watery eyes when my allergies are acting up. I pile on the falsies to make my eyes appear more open,” the YouTuber explained. “Now with magnetic lashes, its super easy to apply without the mess! When all else fails, also love a bold red lip – it really helps distract from any ALLERGY FACE® challenge you’re experiencing!” Alex also shared what trends she’s excited about for spring. “I am very into a glowing look lately. This spring, let’s go with the glow and some color.”
Carly had her own take on tips. “I'm all about letting your natural beauty shine through! So, when I'm suffering from allergies, I try to keep my beauty routine simple and effortless, while still correcting some of the things I'm self-conscious about. Waterproof mascara is a must for watery eyes, tinted moisturizer helps even out redness, and a dab of green corrective concealer around my nose helps me return to my normal look!”
The College Prepster founder also joked that she was sick of snow and excited to see “the light at the end of the tunnel.” However, that doesn’t mean that she’s out looking for a tan. “I have to make sure that all my products have SPF. It’s the one think I look for in everything I use from powders to foundation.”
Jordana admitted that since she can’t put on false eyelashes, she, like Carly, loves piling on the mascara. “But if I don’t use waterproof it ends up everywhere.” The actress also shared her “beauty musts.”
“My biggest challenge is puffiness and there are a few ways I deal with that,” the actress and mom shared. “I enjoy a quick steam on days when my skin is looking especially puffy. My favorite trick is to boil a bowl of water, cover my face with a washcloth and then hold my face over the bowl to let the steam reduce puffiness. I also love a good eye mask!”
What are your tips and tricks for dealing with ALLERGY FACE®? Share in the comments below!
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How Women in History Are Inspiring Women Today
Inspired by Glamour Magazine's #WomensHistoryMonth on Instagram
Inspired by Glamour Mag on Instagram, here’s a list of amazing women who were the first to do things in this world and some of our favorite women who are walking in their footsteps.
Phillis Wheatley was the first published African-American female poet. When Wheatley’s book, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, was published in 1773, she became the first African American to publish a book of poetry. Since then, many female poets have left their mark in this world just like Phillis.
Meet Rupi Kaur, Toronto-based poet, illustrator, and photographer thinks she’s better at putting pen to paper than she is at giving an oral interview. Her work is biting and soft. She twists language in a way that makes you want to walk into a forest and stare up at the sky through the trees. Her words allow you the space to see the world a little differently.
Hypatia was one of the first crusaders for science. As a philosopher, astronomer, and mathematician, Hypatia was definitely an OG boss lady. She is the first known female mathematician. We’ve come a long way since Egyptian mathematics and these Latinas in S.T.E.M. could tell you all about it. We’re also pretty sure these 5 black women dominating the tech space could tell ya some more about how women today are revolutionizing the S.T.E.M. industry. Thank you Hypatia!
Althea Garrison was the first known transgender person in state office, a long-time minor figure in Boston politics, served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in the early 90s. While Althea had to keep many aspects of her personal life a secret to those around her, other women in her footsteps have taken more public approaches to identifying as transgender.
Born Gregory Lazzarato, the middle of three brothers, Gigi Gorgeous began sharing YouTube videos from her bedroom in Toronto in 2008. After losing her mother to cancer that Gigi posted a video to YouTube officially identifying as transgender.
Hetty Green was the woman who dominated wall street in the early 1900s. She was nicknamed the "Witch of Wall Street", and became known as "the richest woman in America" during the Gilded Age.
Meet the modern Hetty- Sallie Krawkrwch, former Wall Street maven. She once ran such elite institutions as Merrill Lynch, Bank of America, and Smith Barney, and is now leveraging her 30 plus years of professional expertise to help women build and invest wealth and “unleash women’s financial power.” Krawcheck is on a mission to close what she calls the “gender investment gap”.
Jeanne Baret was the first woman to travel around the globe, however, she did it as a man. Jeanne Baret was a member of an expedition ship in the 1700s. Baret is recognized as the first woman to have completed a voyage of circumnavigation of the globe.
Jeanne paved the way for women today, like the co-founders of AWAY, to take the lead on changing the way we travel. Jen Rubio and Steph Korey set out to create a piece of luggage for the way "people really move" that didn't come with a first class price tag.
Lydia Taft was the first woman to ever vote in the nation. She did it at a Town Meeting in the New England town of Uxbridge in Massachusetts Colony.
Today we have Cynthia Nixon-- you know her from sex and the city. Nixon just announced that she is officially running for governor of New York City. If she wins, she’ll become New York’s first woman and LGBT governor.
Women’s history month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate those who paved the way for women like us to truly live our best lives.
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Why You Should Have 'Nothing to Hide' at Work
Kiara LeBlanc of Saje Natural Wellness shares how she maintains personal wellness
Too often, we neglect our health while we pursue our dreams and grow our business; but this is a surefire way to do more harm than good. Kiara LeBlanc, VP and Creative Director at Saje Natural Wellness knows this all too well. After joining the family business, she started suffering with a debilitating illness -- but didn’t say anything about it. Only when her business performance was suffering did she admit that she needed to take care of herself.
Now, she lives with a ‘nothing to hide’ attitude, where managing her health is just as important as managing the Saje brand. She describes her ‘aha’ moment that changed her definition of living her best life.
It’s really hard to admit that something is ‘wrong,’ at work. Especially when you want to be a strong, take charge woman. I’ve felt this pressure. How did you know it was time to say something?
Here’s a question for you: would you allow the health of your company to slip by ignoring the symptoms? Would you avoid looking at your balance sheet if you were suffering financially, or avoid customers with complaints? My guess is, you wouldn’t. So then why do we ignore our own health when we’re trying to meet our business goals? Why do we choose to live in a way that places more importance on our business than on ourselves?
“Why do we choose to live in a way that places more importance on our business than on ourselves?"
Those are such excellent questions. We’ve been trained to think that we’re only successful if our careers are on track. But that can be so self-destructive. Was there any fear involved in your decision?
In my career with Saje, I learned the hard way that your business has nothing without your personal health. Eight years ago when I joined the company, I was on a mission to make as much of a contribution as I could, no matter what that looked like. I wanted to show up as what we called an A-player -- someone who shows up at their maximum in terms of work proficiency and culture alignment -- and wasn’t going to stop until I got there. I was so passionate about my work and the people in the company and didn’t want to let anyone down, including myself.
Jump forward three years, and I find myself in the doctor’s office for intense stomach pain. I figured it was just something minor and was completely unprepared to be told that I had something major: ulcerative colitis.
I didn’t know what to do. I told myself ‘I don’t have time to be this sick”, and “maybe it’s not that big of a deal.” Turns out it was game-changing, but I still didn’t want to talk about being sick, and I definitely didn’t want to talk about problems with my digestive system. So, I didn’t. That was my first mistake.
What was your second mistake?
After hiding my pain for almost a year, my mom (also my boss) gave me some feedback on my performance: I wasn’t showing up as an A-player. I was a B-player, and showing up ‘like a stormcloud’. And that’s when it hit me: I had let my health slip to such a degree that my work was suffering. I was not only letting myself down, but I was also letting the team around me down.
I had let my health slip to such a degree that my work was suffering. I was not only letting myself down, but I was also letting the team around me down.
What have you learned through this process?
The truth is that you can’t ignore your health. Your body will find a way to send you a message and get you to change. I had to take some time off and address what was going on with my body. And to do that, I actually had to face reality: I had lost 20 pounds, I was losing ounces of blood every day, and I couldn’t eat anything without extreme pain. I was endlessly embarrassed.
After a long road to recovery, I learned some hard lessons about showing up for myself first, and not hiding the truth of my life and my body. I started prioritizing my needs even higher than the needs of the business. It turns out when you put yourself first, you are really putting the business first. Without a healthy you, your business isn’t healthy: when you are suffering, your business is suffering.
A lot of us have something we’re hiding, some truth that is going to find a way out whether we like it or not. But when you take charge of your life, live true to your values, and show up big, that’s when you’re living your best life.
Would you say you’re working to redefine balance?
For me, it’s not so much about finding balance as it is about living one life. When you make a distinction between different parts of your life, you’re creating a barrier to living your fullest. Where I’m at now, you could wake me up at 3 am to talk about ideas, because my work lights me up. I’m never going to say no to something that lights me up.
It’s odd to me that we tolerate work situations that don’t bring us as much joy as our personal life. Compare it to dating: if you’re on a third date with someone and you’re not feeling it, you don’t book a fourth date. But, if you’re at a job that you don’t love, sometimes you linger, hoping it will change, or tell yourself it’s ‘good enough’. When we choose to stay in situations that don’t light us up, we’re not going to find ourselves on a path to dharmic success.
So how do you now live with ‘nothing to hide?’
I live audaciously. The definition of audacious is “to be extremely bold or daring; fearless; highly inventive and without restriction from prior ideas”. I love this word to describe the energy that happens when you’re living full-out. I often say” “live so audaciously as yourself that you will succeed in the right situation.” And living audaciously is when you have nothing to hide from yourself, your friends or your colleagues.
“Live so audaciously as yourself that you will succeed in the right situation.”
When you don’t feel like you’re succeeding, think about the situation you’ve surrounded yourself with. If you’re not surrounded by people you love, doing what you love, you should probably just pack up and go home. Trying to fit ourselves into someone else’s mold will never end with you seeing as much success as you dream of. Living audaciously also attracts the right people into your circles, and before you know it, your entire network will be full of people who light you up and push you into your greatness.
For me, living with a nothing to hide mindset is the key to achieving an audacious and powerful life. We need to have less shame around our bodies and what’s happening with them. We need to see it as powerful to share our truth and take care of ourselves. Choose to live with nothing to hide: the results will excite you.
What do you do when you feel run-down?
I fill my tank. I live full-out. SO yes, get up at 3 am to write down all the amazing ideas that just came to you. But also yes: take time in your life to recharge. Everyone refills their tanks differently. For some it’s a long run, for others it’s a meditation; for me, it’s an intense conversation with someone I love. No matter what method you choose to recharge, honor it and make time for it. A real, well-rounded balance sheet would list your health as an asset: treat it like one, because the gains are undeniable.
Kiara’s Bio
Kiara LeBlanc is VP of Brand and Creative Director of Saje Natural Wellness - a twenty-five-year-old natural wellness company that has become North America’s leader in plant-derived essential oil products that help you feel your best, naturally. Founded in 1992, Saje began introducing 100% natural, plant-derived alternatives to pharmaceutical medicine and has grown from 14 to 71 education experience-based retail locations across North America within the past four years – and has been included on the PROFIT 500 list of Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies for the past three years.
As a member of the founding family, Kiara champions the product innovation, store environment, and creative departments within Saje and was the recipient of the 2015 Notable Award for ‘Best in Design’. A previous student of Emily Carr University of Art + Design and involved in the business since childhood, Kiara has inspired and assisted in the vision and development of most of the 100% natural products and formulations available on the shelves today.
Kiara’s passion for technology, brand strategy, and the retail experience continues to inspire Saje as they push traditional retail boundaries and continue to expand their offering across North America and digitally on www.saje.com.
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C&C Classifieds: Buzzfeed, Baby2Baby, Crown + Conquer + More!
Holla for a dolla.
Heeeyy, must be the mon-aye!
It's Wednesday ladies and that means we're dishing out a whole new set of job openings. If you're looking for a fresh start or a new opportunity, look no further. Our classifieds listing for today is full of new openings from LA to Texas and they're waiting for you.
Get those resumes and cover letters ready!
Crown + Conquer - Beverly Hills, CA
Baby2Baby - LA, CA
Buzzfeed - LA, CA
RE/DONE - LA, CA
SIMON Property Group - Dallas, TX
WANT MORE? CHECK OUT OUR FULL LIST OF CLASSIFIEDS.
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Why Amani Al-Khatahtbeh Created Muslim Women's Day
Reclaiming her narrative.
We think it’s important to tell Muslim women’s stories to ensure that they are represented in the conversations directly impacting them. In this way, we choose to be allies by elevating the narratives we don’t always get to hear from. We stand with Muslim women against hate, discrimination, and violence.
Today is #MuslimWomensDay, a day to celebrate Muslim women and amplify their voices. We spoke with Amani Al-Khatahtbeh, the founder of the movement as well as the voice behind MuslimGirl.com.
Amani is adamant that we as a whole create a new precedent for Muslim women's representation in mainstream media.
Read more below.
Social media has the ability to highlight different voices, but it likewise has the ability to promote stereotypes. How do you combat the latter with your work?
That’s the nature of social media: it’s a double-edged sword, and we don’t shy away from that. I don’t think it’s just a matter of shutting down the hateful ways that social media is being used, but even more so amplifying counter-speech to elevate those voices that often get drowned out. Social media is the great equalizer in that way. Just as much as it gives a platform to bigots, it also gives an equal platform to marginalized narratives. The beauty of it is that it’s egalitarian as well as democratic by nature. That’s the only way that an initiative like MuslimGirl.com can have a fighting chance to be heard.
How has your experience has Muslim millennial differed from that of your parents' generation?
It’s an entirely different experience, especially since my parents were both born in the Middle East. I was born and raised right here in what people call the world’s greatest superpower. I grew up not only with one foot in two doors but also in the age of 9/11. I had my formative years during one of the most anti-Muslim moments in modern history. The needs of my generation, as well as the ways we choose to express them, are entirely different from that of my parents — people are often surprised that my mother chooses not to wear a headscarf, but that’s only one of the most shallow differences. Unlike my parents, but entirely because of their own unique and tremendous struggles, I also grew up with what would be considered an absolute wealth of privileges and resources by comparison. I also did so in a time and place where minority kids like me have the opportunity to be agents for change and tolerance in our society.
Convos about women’s empowerment are happening everywhere we look. How do you feel about the movement and its reach?
I think it’s really exciting that we’re living in — no, compelling the next wave of feminism. At this junction, I don’t think women of color will allow it to happen without them. I’ve never seen marginalized women become more vocal, more powerful, more adamant about being represented in the conversation in my entire life. For me, I’m bearing witness to an entire #MuslimGirlArmy demanding their place in the movement. It’s always been my dream to expand the Western feminist lexicon to make space for Islamic feminism and I think we’re doing just that.
Do you think it’s inclusive?
I think many women practice only partial feminism — the kind of feminism that only applies to personal or private life and circumstance, but is far removed from the struggles of other women outside of that. If we truly want to embody the concept of feminism, we would not rest until there is just equity for all women, not just the few that get there first. While we’re breaking glass ceilings, we can’t leave women behind to get cut by the shards.
While we’re breaking glass ceilings, we can’t leave women behind to get cut by the shards.
You’ve said, “history has taught us that we can’t compromise on liberation.” What are you unwilling to compromise on?
I’m unwilling to compromise on the reality that absolutely no woman is voiceless. Every woman has a voice, but there are those that are more systematically silenced than others. Not only is it our duty to empower those voices to be heard, but also to know when it’s time to shut up and listen.
If you could change one law, what would it be?
Can we please impeach the president via a Twitter poll?
As a Muslim woman how has the #MeToo movement inspired or motivated you to share your voice in the conversation?
Muslim women are placed in this precarious position where, if we want to speak up against injustices within our own community, we not only have to worry about internal backlash but even more so that Islamophobes will hijack our narrative and use our grievances against us to justify their bigotry. More than anything, I think the #MeToo movement has affirmed to me that we need safe spaces to own our experiences and talk about them.
"
Can we please impeach the president via a Twitter poll?
What do you hope young Muslim women in America learn from today’s leaders about sharing their voice and being heard?
To be totally honest, I think today’s leaders can learn a lot from young Muslim women in America about what it means to not only share your voice but also to do so against all forms of adversity, even when all the cards are stacked against you, even when it means quite literally putting your life on the line.
What does #MuslimWomensDay mean to you?
To me, #MuslimWomensDay is the culmination of a growing force of not only Muslim women who refuse to back down, but also our allies the world over that stand with us, believe in us and recognize a moment that calls for us to rise up in collective solidarity. I couldn’t be prouder or more moved by its reach.
How can non-muslims support Muslim women in America?
Pass the mic! Center our voices and stories. It can be as simple as hitting share or retweet on Muslim women-focused content or support Muslim-led media initiatives and campaigns. If it’s about us, let us be the ones to lead.
You can take part by simply retweeting and sharing Muslim women’s stories on your social media on this day, and celebrating the Muslim women in your life to let them know you care.
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