21CF Global Inclusion and Women in Technology @ 21CF (WiT@21CF) welcomed Chief Justice of California Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye to the Fox Studios Lot for an in-depth discussion about her life and trailblazing career. Fox Networks Group General Counsel Rita Tuzon moderated the Feb. 22 event, which welcomed women from across 21CF’s entertainment businesses to discuss how Cantil-Sakauye broke new ground in a male-dominated field, current movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp, and her vision for the future of working women in America.
“Whether it be technology, the law or even entertainment, never before have women been at this juncture where the status quo is absolutely something we must forego,” said Erin Relford, the communications chair for WiT@21CF, during her opening remarks. “So, we thought, who better to help us kick off Women’s History Month than two women changing the status quo in their own respective fields?”
Cantil-Sakauye is the first Asian-Filipina American and the second woman in history to serve as the Chief Justice of California, a position she’s occupied since 2011. The Chief Justice of California heads the California Supreme Court and chairs the Judicial Council. During her visit to Fox, she spoke about her unusual path to a career in law (including her time as a blackjack dealer at a casino in Lake Tahoe), her work to provide access to justice by removing language barriers in the court system and the growth in the number of women working in the justice system. She also spoke about the women who influenced her at a young age and how important those connections are to young girls.
“I grew up in a Filipina family,” Cantil-Sakauye said. “I had a lot of aunts who were very small and were quiet in a crowd. However, when two or three or four of my aunties came together, they would lead and organize events that brought the neighborhood and the children together.” This emphasis on organizing something for the greater good helped her realize there is strength in numbers and adding voices to one another could have tremendous impact.
21CF Global Inclusion works to foster a culture and work environment where everyone from everywhere feels welcome and can thrive. Learn more about the team’s work, including further upcoming events celebrating Women’s History Month.
