Agree with Frenchieman who said, "But sometimes a little affirmative action gets the ball rolling... It's cultural, and without a little push it won't change."

The 1st step is the most difficult for any new endeavour or innovative ideas so the ladies need all the help and support they can get from you gentlemen. :0)

Having said that, sometimes women can be their own worst enemies (heard this of some women's experiences in KSA and other places too), and that's when they also need all the help and support they can get from you gentlemen. :P