The Role of Nonprofit Organizations in Overcoming Gender Inequality in Career Advancement—Take Catalyst for Example

Abstract

From the birth of the Declaration of Sentiments in 1848 to emphasize the importance of equal voting rights for men and women, the establishment of the National Organization for Women in 1966 to support the feminist movement, to the current popularity of the MeToo movement to oppose sexual harassment of women, women and others who concern gender equality strive for equal respect and equal social status and rights. However, gender inequality still exists in workplaces, and women struggle to obtain senior positions in their professions. From a sociological perspective, this paper analyzes the causes of gender inequality in career advancement including pregnancy and childcare, bias and stereotyping, male dominance and lack of networks. Next, this paper proposes the importance of women occupying senior positions, and emphasizes the role of nonprofit organizations (NPOs) in overcoming gender inequality in career advancement. Taking Catalyst, an international NPO dedicated to creating a better working environment for women, as an example, this paper concludes that to overcome gender inequality in career advancement, NPOs should promote the improvement of policies, provide services to women and researchers, strengthen the publicity of female role models and male participation, and expand cooperation.