How Progress Takes Time—and Women to Demand It

On September 10, Valerie Jarrett, Krista Berger, and Brooke Shields participated in a panel discussion at the TIME Women’s Leadership Forum in New York City, moderated by TIME CEO Jessica Sibley. The panel focused on the gradual nature of progress and the importance of women in advocating for change. Jarrett, a former adviser to President Obama, highlighted the historical struggles women faced in securing voting rights, emphasizing that many activists did not live to see the 19th Amendment's passage. Berger, who leads the Barbie brand at Mattel, discussed the brand's evolution over the past decade, noting the risks taken to ensure Barbie reflects contemporary societal ideals. She pointed out that while the brand experienced a resurgence following the success of the Barbie movie, societal expectations can be harsh, especially for women as they age. Both Jarrett and Shields underscored the significance of women using their voices to drive positive change. Jarrett encouraged women to be proactive in their advocacy, asserting that a greater number of women as forces for good would lead to a better world. The discussion highlighted the ongoing challenges women face in demanding progress and the necessity of resilience and courage in the pursuit of equality. The event was sponsored by Barbie, Deloitte, and ŌURA, reflecting a commitment to empowering women and fostering leadership. The insights shared during the forum serve as a reminder of the collective effort required to achieve lasting change in society.