Final answer:
The correct answer is D. Maria's experience at her garment manufacturing company, where she is hindered from becoming CEO because of her gender, represents a 'glass ceiling'—an invisible, discriminatory barrier preventing women from executive roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The given scenario where Maria has been repeatedly passed over for promotion due to her gender exemplifies a glass ceiling. This term refers to an invisible barrier caused by discrimination that prevents individuals, often women, from rising to the highest ranks within an organization. Despite Maria's hard work and being indispensable, her opportunities for career advancement are limited because of the management's reluctance to appoint a woman as CEO.
In America, social patterns of discrimination, including roles in child-rearing and stereotypes about aggression and leadership, have historically contributed to the glass ceiling. Legal and ethical practices now encourage organizations to promote equity among all genders, aiming to dismantle these invisible barriers. Unfortunately, Maria's experience reflects an ongoing challenge that requires continual efforts to achieve true equality in the workplace.