As Women’s History Month draws to a close, we recognize March 31 as Equal Pay Day. This national call-to-action is even more urgent in the wake of COVID-19, as women experience disproportionate impacts that are likely to worsen the gender wage gap in the immediate future. Today, AIT CEO Lauren Leader and New York Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul published an article highlighting the unique issues that women are facing in the COVID-19 crisis.
This year, the average American woman made 82 cents for every dollar earned by men. This number is drastically worse for most women of color, with Black women earning an average of 62 cents, Native American women earning 57 cents, and Latina women earning 54 cents.
This Take Action Tuesday, help to close the gender wage gap and ensure fair workplaces.
- Understand The Issue. The gender wage gap results from the intersection of several factors including sexual harassment, racial discrimination, insufficient paid family and sick leave, and inflexible working conditions for primary caretakers. To learn more about fair workplace practices, watch our webinar with A Better Balance.
- Know Your Rights. The first step towards guaranteeing workplace fairness is knowing and speaking up about your existing workplace rights.Click here to find information on federal and state-specific workers’ protections.
- Contact Your Legislators. Many federal and state laws are being created to address the growing needs of workers and families across the country.Find out what legislation is being considered federally and in your state, and contact your legislators to ensure that your needs are represented.
Want to learn more about how you can raise your voice during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond? Check out our recent webinar, Advocating for Women in the Time of COVID.
