Sexism in the Workplace
Surgical residents (male) talked about Dr. Conley when she and my former husband were in residencies at the Stanford University Medical Center in the late 1960s.
Her name arose frequently. No one questioned her competence; they questioned her femininity. I remember only one who referred to her with affection and respect.
It took great courage to specialize in neurosurgery; it takes great courage to walk away from a successful career.
I join her in hoping that media fascination with her action will help open the way for honest dialogue on this issue not only at medical schools, but at graduate schools throughout the country.
MARYA CHARLES ALEXANDER, South Pasadena
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
