Could you imagine being limited by something that has nothing to do with your skills or abilities? If you look at the leadership positions in many of the world's largest companies, you will notice that few women occupy them. This contrast may also be related to the role of African Americans in companies. It is very evident when you consider the number of black CEOs compared to white leaders. Something prevents them from reaching the top. Examples of this can be found in Alex Hayley's The Autobiography of Malcolm Although many people believe that racial discrimination is mostly a thing of the past, it is still an invisible barrier in one of the most important areas of life: the workplace. The term “glass ceiling” was coined by the Wall Street Journal to describe “the apparent barriers that prevent women from reaching the top of the corporate hierarchy” (Women in business). Today it applies to all cases of discrimination that prevent career advancement. Business Training defines it as “A phrase used to describe an invisible barrier to promotion. It can also be seen as an all-encompassing opportunity on the surface, when in reality the “glass ceiling” is reached and growth or promotion stops.” African Americans face many problems in the workplace, including: barriers to employment, difficulties with promotion and advancement, funneling into “minority” positions, and lack of access to networking and mentors (Queralt). Discrimination encountered in the employment process explains a notable difference in the employment situation between Caucasian and African American professionals (Laseter). For example, people in charge of hiring new employees often hold judgments and stereotypes about African Americans that contribute to… middle of paper… A. Wissoker. “An analysis of the correlations and sicrimination facing young Hispanic job seekers.” American Economic Review (1994): 84, 674-683. Laseter, R.L. Workforce participation of young Black men: A qualitative examination. Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago Press, 1998. McCoy, F. “Rethinking the Cost of Discrimination.” Black Enterprise (2000): 25, 54-59.Queralt, M. The social environment and human behavior: a diversity perspective. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon, 1995.Skidmore, R. A. Social Service Administration: Dynamic Management and Human Relations, 3rd ed. Needham Heights, ME: Allyn & Bacon, 1995. Turner, M. A, M. Fix, and R. J. Struyk. Hiring discrimination against black men. The Urban Institute Policy and Research Report. Washington, DC, 1999. "Women in business: the glass ceiling conundrum." The Economist May 4 2010.