Netflix’s latest drama series “The Chair” has sparked conversations about the reality of women faculty in English departments and academia as a whole. The show follows Professor Ji-Yoon Kim, played by Sandra Oh, as she becomes the first woman of color to be appointed as the chair of the English department at the fictional Pembroke University.

Throughout the series, “The Chair” sheds light on the challenges and obstacles that women face in academia, particularly in male-dominated fields like English. From dealing with gender discrimination and microaggressions to struggling to balance work and personal life, Professor Kim’s journey reflects the experiences of many women faculty members in real-life universities.

One of the key themes of the show is the lack of representation and diversity in academia. Professor Kim’s appointment as chair is met with resistance and skepticism from her male colleagues, who question her qualifications and ability to lead. This mirrors the struggles that many women faculty members face in breaking through the proverbial “glass ceiling” and achieving leadership positions in academia.

“The Chair” also highlights the unequal treatment of women faculty compared to their male counterparts. In one episode, Professor Kim is tasked with resolving a scandal involving a male professor who used a racial slur in class. While she is pressured to take swift action against him, the male professor is given a slap on the wrist and allowed to continue teaching. This depiction illustrates the double standards and biases that women faculty often face in academia.

Additionally, the show explores the challenges of work-life balance for women faculty members. Professor Kim grapples with juggling her demanding job as chair, her responsibilities as a single mother, and her personal life. This struggle is something that many women in academia can relate to, as they are often expected to excel in their careers while also fulfilling traditional gender roles and responsibilities.

Overall, “The Chair” serves as a powerful and thought-provoking examination of the realities faced by women faculty in English departments and academia as a whole. Through its nuanced portrayal of gender dynamics, diversity issues, and work-life balance, the show shines a much-needed spotlight on the challenges and triumphs of women in academia. It is a reminder that despite the progress that has been made, there is still work to be done to achieve true equity and inclusion in higher education.