An Examination of the Concrete Ceiling: Perspectives of Ten African American Women Managers and Leaders

Research indicates that although women have progressed in their representation in management positions in corporate organizations, they are still subject to gender inequality (Cohen & Huffman, 2003; Gazso, 2004; Karlin, England, & Richardson, 2002). For African American women, they are further subjected to race and class inequalities. The proposed research is intended to examine the unique personal and professional views and experiences of 10 African American women managers and leaders working in White, male-dominant cultures. It will further determine if these African American women working in such a culture agree in their perceptions of inequalities contributing to the low representation in managerial and leadership positions within their respective organizations.