Work and Family
The equal participation of women in politics and government is integral to building strong communities and a vibrant democracy in which women and men can thrive. By voting, running for office, and engaging in civil society as leaders and activists, women shape laws, policies, and decision-making in ways that reflect their interests and needs, as well as those of their families and communities.
Today, women constitute a powerful force in the electorate and inform policymaking at all levels of government. Yet, women continue to be underrepresented in governments across the nation and face barriers that often make it difficult for them to exercise political power and assume leadership positions in the public sphere. This chapter presents data on several aspects of women’s involvement in the political process in the United States: voter registration and turnout, female state and federal elected and appointed representation, and state-based institutional resources for women. It examines how women fare on these indicators of women’s status, the progress women have made and where it has stalled, and how racial and ethnic disparities compound gender disparities in specific forms of political participation.
Toward Equity: After a Decade of Progress, Gaps in Access to Paid Sick Leave Remain
This blog originally appeared on the Policies for Action (P4A) website. The importance of paid sick leave was underscored in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world grappled with the challenges of a global health crisis, the simple act of staying home when [...]
Advancing Equity in Attainment for Black Single Mothers in College: Understanding Their Needs and Supporting Their Success
As part of its broader Student Parent Success Initiative, IWPR conducted original research focusing specifically on Black single mother students. This report summarizes findings from 25 interviews IWPR conducted with Black single mother community college students, consisting of both students who were enrolled at [...]
The Black Maternal Health Crisis: Federal and State Policy Solutions
Black maternal health is in a state of emergency in the United States. The US has the highest rate of maternal mortality of wealthy nations, and although rates have skyrocketed over the last two decades for all women, Black women are around three times [...]
All Americans Deserve Paid Leave Benefits: Policy Options for Congress
Better paid leave policies benefit all workers but are particularly important for women. IWPR’s research has consistently shown the economic benefits of investments in paid leave. Read more on IWPR's policy recommendations. Read More
As Apprenticeships Expand, Breaking Down Occupational Segregation Is Key to Women’s Economic Success
Apprenticeships are structured training programs that combine paid on-the-job learning with classroom instruction and provide a pathway to industry-recognized qualifications in in-demand occupations. For workers, the apprenticeship route can offer an alternative to traditional college (and college debt), yet traditionally, women have been much [...]
