I have served on cabinets where I was the only woman, one of only a few women, and one that was all women. While every cabinet has its own dynamics, gender is a factor. Regardless of their title, the women around the table made space for each other to speak and be heard. I could relax and listen to others because I knew they would hear me.
Often when there are men at the table, there is an actual or perceived feeling that women need to make room for themselves that doesn't always have space. This condition is not per se a reflection of the men at the table but often an artifact of socialization and expectation of men and women. Nor is it to say that I have not been a part of very successful mixed-gender cabinets because I have.
Whether at an all-female table or one with men and women, gender is always present, and we must recognize that and reflect on it as it impacts our behavior and that of others.
