Emilia Calleja leaves CFE workers in the dark
Emilia Calleja, the first woman to lead the CFE, is criticized for her detrimental impact on female workers within the organization.
Emilia Calleja, the first female leader of the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) in Mexico, faces heavy criticism from female workers who claim that her leadership has regressed the progress made in gender inclusivity. Her recent decisions have dismantled the Gender and Inclusion Unit (UGI), which had previously implemented significant measures such as lactation rooms and training programs aimed at increasing female representation in leadership roles. Ironically, some women workers express nostalgia for the leadership of Manuel Bartlett, suggesting that he had a more effective approach to promoting women's issues, despite his controversial reputation.
The dismantling of UGI under Calleja has not only been perceived as a setback for gender rights within the organization but also as a severe blow to the morale of women employees who relied on UGI’s resources. The UGI was a key facilitator of programs aimed at empowering women, including initiatives targeted at indigenous women and tools for reporting sexual harassment. The extent of Calleja's negative impact has led many to question her commitment to gender equality within the CFE, highlighting the stark contrasts between her leadership style and that of her predecessor.
Critics argue that Calleja's decisions reflect broader systemic issues within corporate governance, especially when it comes to female leadership. The lamentations of CFE workers about their lost benefits underscore a critical discourse on whether female leaders can genuinely support women’s rights and empowerment, or if they end up perpetuating existing patriarchal structures. The situation presents a significant challenge for the CFE as it seeks to rebalance its approach to gender and ensure that women's voices are not only heard but also prioritized in its policies and practices.