Good morning, Chicago.
Today the Chicago Tribune published our special report that explores the treatment of women employed at Chicago radio stations. We interviewed three dozen women about the culture they said they have endured in what many described as an industry dominated by men.
Some felt they were paid less than their male counterparts and offered fewer opportunities for advancement. Others gave examples of feeling disrespected and belittled by male bosses.
Reporting on this story started when we were struck by the number of local female voices that had disappeared from the radio in recent years. Jennifer Ashrafi, Trish Biondo, Mary Dixon and Wendy Rice are among the women who described to us the circumstances of their departures.
This piece follows our reporting on four women’s allegations of inappropriate behavior by former WTMX morning host Eric Ferguson, who announced Friday he is “stepping away” from the station.
The story includes a statement from former Ferguson co-host Kathy Hart, who remained silent on why she left the show but wrote: “I continue to admire the women in radio who have been pioneers in breaking stereotypes and I hope they can encourage the change that radio so desperately needs right now.”
Thank you for reading.
— Tracy Swartz and Christy Gutowski, Chicago Tribune reporters
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Chicago children begin receiving pediatric COVID-19 vaccines: ‘My grandparents can be safe’
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Anahi Morales, 11, received her first dose at an Esperanza Health Centers vaccination clinic in West Englewood. “I can spend more time with my family,” she said. “My grandparents can be safe.”
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