Our Separate Ways, With a New Preface and Epilogue

Gender equality is at a crossroads. Let your diverse talent shine.

In Our Separate Ways, Ella Bell Smith and Stella Nkomo take an unflinching look at the differences between Black and white women's experiences at work. Based on groundbreaking research, the book compares and contrasts the experiences of 120 first-generation Black and white female managers in the American business area. In-depth histories bring to life the women's powerful and often difficult journeys from childhood to professional success, highlighting the roles that gender, race, and class played in their development.

Now, with an updated preface and epilogue, this book provides candid discussions of the continuing challenge of achieving race and gender equality in the midst of deep national political and ideological divides. You'll discover how white women have—perhaps unwittingly—aligned themselves more often with white men than with Black women and see how systemic racism and biases still exist today. But you will also learn what organizations can do to leverage the talents of all women and create workplaces free of systemic racism. Whether you lead an organization, work in HR, or just want to understand the dynamics at play, you will discover ideas for creating a better workplace and encouraging equality for everyone.