What is Latina Equal Payday? 

LATINA EQUAL PAY DAY IS A REMINDER OF THE WORK WE HAVE TO DO FOR ECONOMIC FAIRNESS. Latinas are among the fastest-growing, most powerful groups in the United States. Latinas excel in every sector of industry in our country. Yet Latinas face the widest pay gap in the United States. Latinas are paid, on average 55 cents for every dollar made by white, non-Hispanic men. Latina Women must work nearly 23 months to earn what white men earn in 12 months. That means it takes almost two years for Latinas to earn what White men earn in one year. This also means that Latinas would have to work until the age of 90 which is beyond our life expectancy, to earn as much as white, non-Hispanic male makes by the time they are 60 years of age. The pay GAP hurts Latinas and their ability to provide for their families, especially single mothers. 

Pay gap by Education

Latinas are going to college at higher rates than ever before. But education doesn’t eliminate the pay gap. The gap is largest for Latinas with a bachelor’s degree, who earn 31% less than white men on average. There is a misconception that people think that Latina women choose not to be in higher position roles but the reality is that even working in the same role Latinas are paid less than white men. For example, a Latina earns 36% less than a white Manager on average. For every 100 men promoted to manager, only 71 Latinas are promoted. The wage gap is not just a statistic; it affects families, communities, and futures. It limits opportunities and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. Together, we can close the gap and empower Latina women everywhere. Let’s work towards a future where everyone is paid fairly for their contributions!

So why is this an issue? 

The issue is not over a simple paycheck. It's due to the loss over time on average in a Latina’s career, the lost income adds up to over a million dollars compared to white men. When it comes to the gender pay gap, Latinas working full-time and part- time across every industry and sector are being paid an average of just 52 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic male workers. Women of color remain underrepresented in higher-paying occupations. Latina women are overrepresented in industries that are underpaid and often lack basic workplace protections. 

What can be done? 

We need policy changes at both the federal and state levels. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 made it illegal for employers to pay unequal wages to men and women performing substantially equal work. While this act and subsequent civil rights laws have made strides in addressing wage inequality, they have not fully closed the persistent gap between women's and men's wages.

We must advocate for a change in workplace culture and the public narrative surrounding women and work in our country. Deep-seated notions and unconscious biases that suggest women are less valuable or capable than their male counterparts are reflected in the pay we receive and the treatment we endure. Employers need to create safe and equitable workplaces where everyone feels valued—this benefits employees and employers alike. 

As a first-generation Latina, leading this campaign is a cause I am deeply passionate about. Growing up in a culture steeped in machismo and traditional gender roles, I often rebelled against the expectations placed on me, becoming the black sheep of my family as I broke generational cycles of trauma. I chose not to accept the blind beliefs around me; instead, I questioned everything, seeking to understand the "why" and "how."

As a Latina, I have felt the weight of societal suppression, where our voices and rights are often overlooked, and I have experienced firsthand the perception of women as less capable or competent. I want to remind all Latina women that we belong in spaces we were told we didn't, and it's time to take our seats at the table. Even if it ruffles feathers, we should never dim our light to please others. I firmly believe in the importance of lifting each other up, especially among women. Too often, we are taught to compete rather than support one another, but together we are so much more powerful.

Growing up, I was told by family members that I was destined to become a young mother and serve as a housewife. Today, I am proud to hold a Master's Degree in Public Administration, joining the ranks of the 3% of Latinas who graduate with a master's in the U.S. Leading this campaign allows me to raise awareness about Latina Equal Pay Day and advocate for my sisters and hermanas who face similar challenges. I aim to inform them on the importance of negotiating their pay and benefits in the workplace.

I also want to be the big sister I wish I had, offering guidance on becoming a successful Latina. One piece of advice I want to leave my fellow Latinas with is that you deserve to be heard, valued, and compensated fairly. Your voice matters, so speak up and advocate for yourself asi que ponte las pilas!