‘Breaking Through’: Equalizing Opportunities and Change

Abstract

Established patterns of gender segregation are persistent, supported as they are by gendered meanings endorsing male dominance. But the picture is not all gloom. This chapter explores processes of change in the workplaces, linking them to feminization. The development of a ‘climate of equality’, along with women’s own growing belief that their contributions should be better rewarded, are two key factors in promoting change: but aspects of the class dynamic (changing employer attitudes to women’s labour; the changing position and policies of trade unions; technological development) are also at play.

‘In twenty years I have seen as vast improvement but there’s still a long way to go. It was my generation who took the men on. We’re breaking through.’ (Claire)