RLF Reflection: Re-centering Leadership Theories in Feminist Contexts

On February 18, Elizabeth “Leeza” Poselski gave a presentation on recentering leadership theories in feminist contexts. Leeza discusses how we must recognize gender as an organizing principle of society and that we can only intervene effectively in manifestations of racism, sexism, and homophobia by building solidarity. Furthermore, Leeza reveals how we must leverage our unique personalities to redefine what liberated workplaces look like. Finally, she explains how feminist goals arise from personal experience and collective consultation.

This presentation helped me to recognize that women’s work in the home and community is true leadership. However, society does not always consider this type of work as leadership, which is a problem. Traditionally, society associates leadership with fields in the public sphere, such as business and politics. These are spaces traditionally dominated by men. On the other hand, society traditionally does not associate leadership with work done in the private sphere, a space traditionally dominated by women. We must work to bridge the gap between the public and private sphere and erase this distinction to increase the number of women who assume leadership positions in fields traditionally in the public sphere, such as business and politics.

Through my perspective as a Chinese male who is majoring in Italian, I have learned a lot about myself and how I view the world. Since I grew up in a Chinese household, Chinese values have influenced who I am and my worldview. At the same time, I have studied Italian language and culture for the past four years, which have certainly impacted the way I think as well. Being constantly immersed in these two cultures has made me think about their similarities and differences. Embracing these similarities and differences has caused me to appreciate the world’s diversity more and recognize that diversity adds to life’s vibrancy. I have become a more empathetic, curious, and open-minded individual due to my language and culture studies. These traits will help in our increasingly globalized world, where intercultural communication and understanding are very important.

 

-Written by Alex Soong, Class of 2021 Rockefeller Leadership Fellow 

As Rockefeller Leadership Fellows, seniors gain a better understanding of the qualities and responsibilities expected of leaders. As Fellows take part in the workshops, discussions, and team-building exercises, they examine their skills, qualities, and attributes as leaders and analyze how these influence teamwork and achieving goals.