May 10, 2017 was 50/50 Day. Around the world, people gathered to watch a 20 minute film by Tiffani Schlain. Viewers then participated in conversations using a well-crafted discussion guide. The guide encouraged groups to discuss equity, power and the arc of women’s history. It ends with an invitation to “pull the next one up”; an invitation to overcome challenges together.
Take a moment to review the film with a colleague or friend. What resonates for you? Do you agree with the filmmakers thoughts on our mental models on equity coming from a place of scarcity rather than abundance? How important do you think mentoring is in supporting younger women? Who are you mentoring? Who is mentoring you?
When you are finished watching the film, think about who can you pull up to the top of the mountain. Marc Kelly Smith’s poem inspires us to take those courageous steps towards a society where 50/50 is possible.
“When you get to the top of the mountain Pull the next one up. Then there’ll be two of you Roped together at the waist Tired and proud, knowing the mountain, Knowing the human force it took To bring both of you there. And when the second one has finished Taking in the view, Satisfied by the heat and perspiration under the wool, Let her pull the next one up; Man or woman, climber of mountains. Pull the next hand over The last jagged rock To become three. Two showing what they’ve already seen. And one knowing now the well-being with being Finished with one mountain, With being able to look out a long way Toward other mountains. Feeling a temptation to claim victory.” Pull the Next One Up by Marc Kelly Smith
