The Glass Ceiling: Fact or Illusion
The glass ceiling is it a fact or an illusion? The two words "Glass Ceiling" are used to describe the barrier that exists for women and minorities-when it comes to getting promoted into the upper echelons of a company. Does the ceiling exist or is it a figment of the imagination? The writer intentions are to present a picture of that ceiling, and show how it plays a part in corporate America. That in fact the ceiling is an injustice being done to women and minorities, and it does exist.
Glass is clear, something that can be seen through. A ceiling is the overhead surface of a room, the end point of how high the room is. "If glass ceilings existed, they would allow people to see through to the world above them. Because glass is clear, those existing under such a ceiling might not, at first, even notice that a barrier was in place, which separated them from higher levels. Yet if they tried to pass through, they would quickly learn that the ceiling prevented any such rise" (Russell Madison). The glass ceiling represents modern day racism, not only against minorities, but women as well.
Therefore, history has contributed much to the situation. You see, men (white males) have always thought of themselves as the superior being of all races, and gender. A woman's place was always in the home, cooking, cleaning, and raising the children. Minorities (blacks) roles were as slaves, never meant to own anything for themselves, but only to serve. Discrimination is a more polite way to look at it. "Discrimination occurs when the civil rights of an individual are denied or interfered with because of their membership in a particular group or class. Statutes have been enacted to prevent discrimination based on a person's race, sex, relig ...