Fighting For Equality: Equal Pay Day
Though there have been tremendous improvements in the last few decades, it is evident that a double standard prevails for working women in America.
The history of the pay gap in America dates back to the beginning of World War I. During World War II however women began filling industrial positions in record numbers to counter the draft that enlisted more than 10 million American men into war. This increase of women into the workforce from the traditional – now antiquated role of being a homemaker – amplified the female employment rate from ‘5.1 million in 1939 (26%) to just over 7.25 million in 1943 (36% of all women of working age).’
It was evident that without the participation of women into the workforce during this time, the war efforts would have been dealt a major, if not lethal blow. Their jobs consisted of airplane & ship building to munitions & ballistics creation. Little did these women know that the struggles they endured created a saga for work equality leading into the latter half of the 20th century and modern times.
Currently, the wage gap in America is of such significance that in 2015 the average woman would have to work until April 12th, 2016 in order to achieve equal pay of the average man. Hence, April 12th is a day of reckoning that has become known as Equal Pay Day. Additionally, the pay gap has an even more profound effect on ethnic and racial groups. Below are some cents on the dollar comparisons:
Asian women earn 81 cents for every dollar earned by Asian men.
Black women earn 82 cents for every dollar earned by black men.
Hispanic women earn 88 cents for every dollar earned by Hispanic men.
White, non-Hispanic women earn 75 cents for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men.
Although there have been several recent strides by female political leaders to change the standard through public policy, their attempts often fall short due to lack of support and obstruction from Congress. According to a report released by the Institute for Women's Policy Research (IWPR), the wage gap will continue to prevail until approximately 2059. This must change now!
We ask that you join us for 2017 Equal Pay Day with Women's Business Alliance, ABWA and FestiGals event on Tuesday, April 4th as we work together to address the issue of pay inequality in America. Registration includes a ‘Power Hour’ with success experts, a great networking opportunity, light bites, complimentary beverage and parking. Click HERE to register.
Together is the only way to make a change! #equalpay
Sources below…
http://www.striking-women.org/module/women-and-work/world-war-ii-1939-1945
http://history.stackexchange.com/
https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/women/reports/2016/04/12/135260/the-top-10-facts-about-the-gender-wage-gap/
http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2017/03/13/womens-pay-gap-23rd-century/97901550/
http://www.neworleanschamber.org/events/details/2017-equal-pay-day-women-s-business-alliance-with-abwa-and-festigals-7471
