ynsaen: having been female in the professional world for longer than I would have chosen, I have to offer this not comforting observance: Women, in general, are treated dismissively. If you're absolutely right and totally courageous ... it's worse. They'll destroy (or try like hell) your credibility and professional reputation (by whatever means it takes). It's not a pretty picture and I do not have a remedy (other than ones that will get you 50 to life :)) healing as they may be. I don't know what to do, I've fought it many times and although I've quite a few victories they were at a very high cost (corporations, and this is a corporation) have very long memories :)