Kansas City Organization Focuses on Bridging the Gender Pay Gap
In the fight against the enduring gender pay gap, Kansas City houses an organization dedicated to encourage employers to reassess their contribution to the problem. United Women’s Empowerment, known as United WE, strives towards promoting economic and civil leadership for women by utilizing a research-based approach.
A Close-up on the Pay Gap
Despite progress in many areas, the gender pay gap continues to be a significant issue in the Kansas City region and across the nation. Data released by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) reveal that women working full time year-round earn 84 cents to the dollar compared to their non-Hispanic white male counterparts. For Latinas and Black women, the contrast is even more glaring – they earn 52 cents and 66 cents respectively to the dollar compared to non-Hispanic, white men in the same positions.
The Mission of United WE
Pushing against these statistics is United WE, an organization that prioritizes research and action. United WE’s mission focuses not only on bringing these issues to the foreground but also encouraging organizations to evaluate their contribution to the problem. “A great step for employers to take is just to ban salary history requirements on employment applications just to level the playing field,” says Wendy Doyle, CEO of United WE. The organization goes beyond advocating for transparency about salaries throughout companies, it also calls for employers to expanded childcare benefits and paid family leave policies to create an inclusive work environment that retains female staff.
Recognizing the Scope of the Problem
The gender pay gap is far more intricate than a simple comparison of salaries between men and women. It’s a nuanced issue affected by several factors such as race, marital status, maternity, and even the industry. This discrepancy has profound economic consequences on women’s financial security and independence. It reduces lifetime earnings and affects their ability to save for retirement, leading to a higher probability of poverty in old age.
The Need for Comprehensive Efforts
Combating the gender pay gap requires a comprehensive approach with active contributions from government bodies, private companies, and individuals. This includes stringent equal pay laws and regulations, corporate policies that promote transparency, equitable paternity and maternity leave, and other work-life balance policies that nurture a supportive environment for women.
United WE’s mission aligns with the broader goal of achieving gender pay equity by challenging biases and working towards systemic changes in work practices. Their efforts exemplify the need for more organizations to step up and play an active role in this fight, ensuring equal pay for equal work becomes a universal reality, rather than an aspirational goal.
Looking Ahead: Closing the Gap
While the mission ahead is challenging, organizations like United WE fuel optimism with their persistent efforts. The fight for gender pay equality is not a women’s issue; it’s an economic and social issue that impacts us all. By working together, adopting effective strategies, and revising ineffective practices, we can make strides towards closing the gender pay gap.
