Debra Lee, Chairman and CEO of BET Networks spoke at Bisnow’s Breakfast and Schmooze, "Where do Women Stand" Friday in Georgetown. Lee spoke about the difficulties of being a woman in business. “Men would try to impress me or undercut me depending on the day," she said. Lee also noted that being a woman has its advantages: "Women are more meticulous, they follow through. Women don't think they have to act like a man to be successful."
Lee touched on racial issues as well. During the 2008 presidential election, Lee chose to support Obama because, "He's an incredible black man – how could I not support him?” Hillary Clinton asked for Lee's support as well, but Lee said, "I've been black and female from the day I was born, and being African-American is tougher. . . . Hillary understood that."
Race and gender also impact Lee's approach to her business. "Many CEOs still don't get it. I have to remind the boardroom that you have to market differently to African-Americans, women, and Hispanics to stay in business."
Also speaking at the event were Teresa Carlson, Vice President US Federal Government, the Microsoft Corporation; Carolyn Lamm, President, American Bar Association; and Michele Roberts, Partner, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld. Barbara Wahl,Partner, Arent Fox, moderated. Arent Fox, OPX/Cornerstone and MOI sponsored the event.
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