Running with ‘wolves’ or waiting for a happy release? Evaluating routes to gender equality

Abstract

This article examines contemporary thinking about viable ways forward for gender equality at work. It questions both the lingering attachment to feminization in popular commentary and the renewed interest in positive discrimination within academic circles. Focusing on pay disparities in the public sector, it argues that greater attention should be given to the frontline agency of disadvantaged women and the material conditions that affect equality activism. Tensions in equality bargaining are highlighted, along with contradictory pressures on trade union intervention. 'Nowin-no-fee' lawyers are considered to be neglected third party agents with greater relevance for representation and mobilization than the literature typically acknowledges, some proving to be highly effective in politicizing pay inequality.

Mobilising for equality? Understanding the impact of grass roots agency and third party representation

“…There is now a substantial literature on women's attitudes towards unions, and this points to a deep disillusionment, especially in the public sector. Recent work follows earlier studies by Tomlinson () and Walters () in highlighting negative attitudes and experiences, often based on the sense that unions were of little or no help when women raised grievances about their employment (Beirne and Wilson, ). Whilst some union leaders are undoubtedly keen to address historical criticism about inadequate representation, there is a lingering suspicion that union interests are frequently at odds with those of working women.…”

“…Although expressing more obvious concerns about discrimination over the last decade and more, union leaders have been reluctant or worried activists for gender equality. Some seem just as likely as many employers to spin rhetoric and present an appearance of useful intervention on equality issues, which may not reflect reality (Beirne and Wilson, ; Hoque and Noon, ).…”

“…Developments in this context provide a promising terrain for some reinterpretation of the coverage and utility of mobilisation theory. The case reveals tensions in equality bargaining and challenges to both employer and unions ‘from below’ (Ramsay, ) and beyond traditional representative structures (Beirne and Wilson, ).…”

Autonomy and resilience in cultural work: looking beyond the ‘creative industries’

“…There are also concerns about the impact, extent and longevity of these initiatives, and the capacity of established trade unions to secure bargained rights and benefits for freelance and other disadvantaged workers beyond their traditional heartlands (Beirne & Wilson, 2016;Neilson & Rossiter, 2008). The lack of structured support may be more important for effective struggling than 'space' per se, although contrary arguments can also be anticipated.…”

Affecting solidarities: Bringing feeling into feminism, empathy in employment and compassion in academic communities of crises

“…Gender also occupies centre stage in a number of heated debates regarding workplace equality (cf. Beirne & Wilson, 2016). Additionally, for most of their careers, women are questioned over the extent of their ability to undertake professional work in relation to such matters as: their bodies' reproductive capacities; concerns over emotionality; ageing and menopausal trajectories, as well as the stereotypes and stigmatisation regarding these specific matters (cf.…”