You’re left behind.

On the way to our boss’s office, my friend, Haddish, asked, Do you think we will get a promotion this year, Olou?

I hope so, I answered.

In the law firm we worked, we were the only two black women. We were lawyers who wanted to one day get a seat in a senior room. We had worked hard. 24/7. Year after year. For 10 years.

In Stuart’s (our white boss) office, we sat in front of him crossing our fingers on our laps.

Sorry, we’ve given this year’s promotion to James, he said. Last year another promotion was given to Julianna. The year before that another promotion was given to Mark.

Haddish said nothing. She just slumped in the chair. I had to say something, after 10 years of working hard, we deserve a seat at the table.

Sorry, but management does not think you can ‘fit in’ senior rooms.

His voice. Devoid of any emotion.

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