Panel Pledge/About the pledge

About the Pledge

Take the Pledge

Tools and FAQ

What is the Panel Pledge?
The Panel Pledge is a personal commitment to take a stand for gender equality at conferences and events. Inspiration for this pledge comes from three Australian organizations: the Chief Executive Women, the Male Champions of Change and the Women’s Leadership Institute Australia. Different versions of the #panelpledge exist around the world, but they all share the aim of improving the representation of women on panels and at public forums. 

Why should I take the Panel Pledge?
In taking the #PanelPledge you commit to:

1. Asking the question
When you are asked to be a panelist, you will request confirmation of the other panelists/speakers/participants. Reserve the right not to participate on panels where women are excluded.

2. Refusing to participate on men-only panels
As a man, this is the best way to help achieve gender equality at conferences and events. If you do choose to participate, you commit to noting the lack of balance on the panel and highlighting the panel pledge. As a woman, you can refuse to moderate or participate in events with  all-male panels. If you do choose to participate, you commit to noting the lack of balance on the panel and highlighting the panel pledge.   3. Promoting gender equality in your own organization
Ensure events organized by your own organization strive for gender equality. Have the organization take the corporate pledge.

4. Challenging excuses
It is very unlikely there are no qualified or available women who could participate. Be prepared to offer the names of women who event organizers could approach.