Glass ceiling not shattered for Hillary. But there has been progress

Hillary, in her post-election speech, addressed the progress that has been made during her campaign as it relates to womankind

In a stunning, Brexit-style outcome to the U.S. election, Donald Trump has defeated Hillary Clinton, the first female Democratic primary winner. While it’s an outcome that, more than anything else, demonstrates how strong emotions – especially negative ones – can impact votes, let’s not forget the progress that Hillary has made towards shattering the glass ceiling.

In a post-election address to her followers, Hillary addressed the progress that has been made during her campaign as it relates to womankind.

“To all the women, and especially the young women, who put their faith in this campaign and in me, I want you to know that nothing has made me prouder than to be your champion. I know that we still have not shattered that highest glass ceiling. But some day someone will -– hopefully sooner than we might think right now. And to all the little girls watching right now, never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world.” 

In an election marred by a candidate with a recorded history of disparaging women, it’s unfortunate that a host of ugly issues took away the positives of having the first female presidential candidate well within reach of the White House. 

But we can take hope from the magnificent role Michele Obama played in galvanizing women against those that disrespect or even abuse us as a gender. In what many have said was the most inspiring speech of the election, she clearly articulated how many women feel, and gave us the courage to continue to remain vocal and powerful. Perhaps she will be the one to shatter the glass ceiling in U.S. elections to come!

And Elizabeth Warren’s tireless, fiery, and passionate leadership was inspiring and rousing to women all around the world. She took on the issues aggressively, defiantly, giving a strong voice to women everywhere that felt outraged and disenfranchised. 

Even Chelsea Clinton stood out as another example of female leadership, especially among young women. She exemplified grace and power, articulating the issues that are important to women clearly, and with conviction and passion.

Yes, despite the outcome, there is still hope. Hillary and these women made us all proud, and furthered the cause, perhaps making a crack or two in that glass ceiling. Although not today, one day soon, it will surely come shattering down. 

(The author is a senior marketing professional, currently VP & Head of Brand & Digital Marketing at Tech Mahindra. Follow her @meenubagla. Her views are personal)