Also, new IWPR research released shows men out earn women in nearly every occupation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lea Woods | 202-785-5100 | woods@iwpr.org

Washington, DC — The Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) is launching a multi-platform, multi-pronged campaign today that will highlight the impact of wage inequality on the lives of working women, their families, and communities. The current pandemic has highlighted the fragility of our healthcare system and the vulnerability of many lower-wage workers, many of whom are women. Lower-wage workers are less likely to have paid sick leave, the flexibility to “not work,” or savings to tide them over during an unforeseen economic crisis.

“When there is a disparity in the earnings and wages of women compared to men, women are more economically vulnerable and insecure in times such as these, said C. Nicole Mason, Ph.D., President and CEO of IWPR. “It’s less money in their pockets to provide for their families, buy basic necessities, and to get through an economic or financial emergency.”

Beginning today, IWPR is releasing infographics on social media highlighting the impact of the gender wage gap on women of difference races, ethnicities, and underrepresented backgrounds including transgender women, women who were formerly incarcerated, and undocumented women. Videos illustrating the gap will be released March 30 and 31 to coincide with Equal Pay Day, which can be seen at our campaign website iwprequalpayday.org.

In addition today, IWPR released new research focusing on the gap in different occupations, with particular focus on the hardship on women of color.

“We must accelerate the closing of the pay gap through sound policies, such as the Paycheck Fairness Act, culture and narrative change, and more employer accountability,” added Mason.

About the Institute for Women’s Policy Research

The Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that conducts and communicates research to inspire public dialogue, shape policy, and improve the lives and opportunities of women of diverse backgrounds, circumstances, and experiences.

About the author

Author profile

Lea joined IWPR as a Development Associate to manage individual giving and support the grant process. She previously worked in communications and development at LeaderSpring Center in Oakland, CA and the Center for Women’s Leadership in Portland, OR. She has also gained political experience as an intern in a congressional office and on a gubernatorial reelection campaign.

Lea studied Philosophy at Portland State University and the University College London. After graduating, she volunteered as a Witness for Peace Delegate in Cuba before moving to China to teach English. Her professional interests include conflict resolution and public policy.