Yesterday was Equal Pay Day, marking the date into 2018 that women must work to in order to earn what men did in 2017. This gender wage gap is significant, amounting to about 80 cents on the dollar. What’s discussed less often, but perhaps more devastating, is that nearly every single demographic – male or female – earns less than white men. This happens because of the way race and gender converge in our society. At YWCA, we’re dedicated to addressing issues of both gender and racial equity. To achieve this end, we have a particular focus on policies and programs that support women and girls of color who bear the brunt of these inequities. For example, Latina Equal Pay Day is not until November!
With 160 years as a leader in social change movements, we are wise enough to know that we can’t do this work alone. We believe that everyone can help create a more equitable future for women and girls. Just yesterday, our CEO published a piece on Medium discussing the critical role the business community can play in moving our country forward.
Here are some ways YOU can take action:
- Get involved with our Stand Against Racism campaign and learn more about how civic engagement can shape policies for women and girls of color. Later this month, we will hold hundreds of events across the country. You can plan your own event or attend an existing one.
- Donate to YWCA USA and support our national movement for gender equity and racial justice.
- Register to vote and have your friends to the same! Ensure that lawmakers represent your interests – including pay equity!
We aren’t able to discuss the gender wage gap without discussing the racial wage gap because most women don’t live single-issue lives. With our work on the ground and our advocacy here in Washington, we know too well the myriad challenges women are facing in workplaces across the country. You can help make a difference.
Sincerely,
YWCA USA Communications
YWCA USA
1020 19th Street NW, Suite 750
Washington, D.C. 20036
#NationalCommunications