I’m convinced that sexism has morphed into a gene, and what we’re seeing is the generational effects passed down like a secret weapon men save whenever they feel threatened. Growing up, we can all recall the differences that were made between boys and girls. I guess I never noticed how disheartening it could be until it recently affected me in the workplace.

Unfortunately, I happen to be employed under male management. Since being employed by them, I have noticed subtle contrasts in the playing fields between men and women.

Under my position, I am obligated to report any information I care about, so naturally, I pour my interests, like pop culture, into the mix.

Nevertheless, I was recently up for a promotional opportunity. Unfortunately, my glee was short-lived because I was soon told that my work was being replaced by work from one of my male colleagues. Perhaps his work was better, or perhaps I was experiencing gender discrimination.

Regardless, sexism is a quiet reminder that men are systematically at the forefront of the workplace compared to women. For a while, I even witnessed it in the on-campus dining halls.

There would be instances in which boys closer to the male cooks were served significantly larger serving sizes than girls. These dining halls are meant to indulge and power young minds and bodies, but boys need their “strength.”

For example, in elementary school, the teacher, who I recall was always female, would only ask the “strong boys” for help carrying chairs or supplies to and from her car.

Now, maybe you’ve got a male professor who somehow only ever picks male authors for readings or articles. Or maybe he even only calls on guys in the class but refuses to spark a conversation with a girl, even if she happens to raise her hand. Small impacts like these promote the practice of sexism and inherently fuel the tainted psyche of men.

There are ways I plan on unlearning sexism. There will be no difference in responsibilities between my daughters and sons. My sons are also responsible for fixing their own food. Both my sons and daughters will be expected to babysit if need be. We must learn to treat our children the same and not make one feel superior to the other based on things they can’t control, i.e. gender.

Nevertheless, if you’ve realized that you and your male family members are treated differently in these ways, it’s time for open conversations with your family, friends and even strangers. It’s time to learn how to respect women and stop the cycle of the sexist gene.

Blair Bernard is a 21-year-old theater performance major from Lafayette, La.