From: Joan Oloff, DPM
After having read Dr. Mendoza’s comments on her experiences of being in a male dominated profession, then Dr. Schneider’s follow-up comments, I like to comment on the sheer absurdity of Dr. Schneider’s comments. Since Dr. Schneider might best relate to an analogy related to his male colleagues, I will offer this. Imagine if Dr. Mendoza was a male of color, describing his and his friend's experiences with racism in training. Would it be appropriate to respond that, in today’s climate of black lives matter, can this colleague’s claims be substantiated?
Yes, Dr. Schneider, I can assure you that gender discrimination exists in this profession. While I believe we have many strides past blatant gender discrimination, there is still much work to be done until we achieve full parity. Denial of the problem only serves to exacerbate it. As Dr. Mendoza mentioned, student doctors often network with other female residents to learn which programs are more gender neutral when applying.
Gender discrimination is something I personally endured throughout my career, even while having an academic appointment at the former California College of Podiatric Medicine. Let’s work together to truly have gender parity. Acceptance and awareness is a good beginning.
Joan Oloff, DPM, Los Gatos, CA
