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International Equal Pay Day

International Equal Pay Day is a special day marked each year on September 18. This day highlights the need for equal pay for everyone, no matter their gender.

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Position your organization as a pay-equity champion by hosting salary negotiation workshops, transparency initiatives, or advocacy campaigns that resonate with employees and socially-conscious stakeholders.

Relevance 62low intent

Host a salary negotiation workshop or webinar to empower employees with wage-advocacy skills
Launch an internal pay-equity audit campaign with transparent communication about your organization's commitment to fair compensation
Partner with women's advocacy nonprofits for co-branded awareness content or fundraising initiatives
Create educational content exploring the gender pay gap and actionable steps organizations can take toward equity

History

International Equal Pay Day has its origins in the ongoing global efforts to address wage disparities between genders. Established by the United Nations in 2019, the day was specifically chosen to encourage action toward achieving pay equity.

This focus on equal pay reflects a broader commitment to human rights and the elimination of discrimination against women and girls.

The movement toward this observance began earlier, however, with a blend of activism and policy efforts aimed at correcting wage inequalities.

The first official recognition of the need for such a day came from various civil rights and women’s advocacy groups, which have long campaigned against gender—and race-based wage disparities.

These groups’ efforts were instrumental in raising awareness and laying the groundwork for the formal establishment of International Equal Pay Day.

A significant part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals is promoting gender equality and empowering all women and girls.

International Equal Pay Day highlights inequalities and drives international and community efforts to implement fair wage practices globally.

This effort includes various stakeholders, including governments, employers, and civil society, working together to foster a fair economic environment where women receive equal compensation for work of equal value.

How to celebrate

Get Crafty with an Unequal Bake Sale

Tickle your taste buds and your conscience at an “Unequal Bake Sale.” Charge different prices based on gender to symbolize the gender pay gap. Imagine the conversations you’ll spark as folks munch on cookies and contemplate fairness! All proceeds can go to a charity fighting for pay equality.

Pen to Paper for Change

Grab a pen or hit the keyboard! Writing letters to elected officials can pack a punch. It’s a chance to voice concerns about pay inequality and urge leaders to take action. Bring friends or colleagues together for a letter-writing party and make your voices heard.

Educate Through Entertainment

Host a documentary watch party that illuminates gender equality issues. Choose films that explore the gender pay gap or the history of women’s rights movements. It’s a relaxed way to raise awareness and fuel discussions on important issues.

Empower Through Workshops

Why not organize a salary negotiation workshop? It’s a perfect setting to empower participants, especially women, with the skills to advocate for their worth in the workplace. Learning to negotiate effectively can be a game-changer in striving for equal pay. These activities aren’t just about marking a day on the calendar. They’re about sparking real change and encouraging discussions that can lead to a more equitable workplace and society.

FAQ

How did Icelandic women protest the gender pay gap in 2016?

In 2016, Icelandic women left work at 2:38 p.m. to protest the 14% pay gap, symbolizing the time they effectively worked unpaid each day. This action mirrored a similar protest in 1975, where 90% of Icelandic women went on strike to demand equal rights. These demonstrations have been pivotal in advancing gender equality in Iceland.

What unique method did French women use to highlight pay inequality?

On November 7, 2016, French women stopped working at 4:34 p.m., drawing attention to the 15.1% wage gap in France. This time was chosen to represent the point in the day when women effectively stop being paid compared to men. The protest sparked nationwide discussions on gender pay disparities.

Are there any myths about the gender pay gap?

Yes, one myth is that women choose lower-paying careers, but systemic barriers often limit their options. ‘Another misconception is that the pay gap is solely due to women’s choices, ignoring factors like discrimination and occupational segregation. These myths can hinder efforts to address pay inequality.

How does the gender pay gap vary across different U.S. states?

In Washington, D.C., women earn 90% of what men earn, while in Louisiana, they earn just 65%, highlighting regional disparities. These differences can result from varying state policies, industries, and cultural attitudes toward gender roles. Addressing these disparities requires tailored approaches in each state.

What is the significance of Equal Pay Day in Germany?

In Germany, Equal Pay Day is widely observed, with extensive educational programs and events involving thousands to raise awareness about pay inequality. The date is calculated based on the wage gap, marking how far into the year women must work to earn what men did in the previous year. This observance has been instrumental in promoting discussions on wage equality in Germany.

How do caregiving responsibilities impact the gender pay gap?

Women often perform more unpaid household and care work than men, contributing to the gender pay gap. This imbalance can limit women’s availability for paid work and advancement opportunities. Societal expectations often place the burden of caregiving on women, affecting their career progression.

What is the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC)?

EPIC is a partnership led by the ILO, UN Women, and OECD, aiming to achieve equal pay for women and men globally. The coalition collaborates with governments, employers, and workers’ organizations to promote pay equity. EPIC also provides resources and tools to support the implementation of equal pay policies.

How does the gender pay gap affect women in retirement?

Globally, nearly 65% of people above retirement age without any regular pension are women, reflecting the long-term impact of the pay gap. Lower lifetime earnings result in reduced savings and pension contributions for women. This financial insecurity can lead to higher poverty rates among elderly women.

What role do gender stereotypes play in the gender pay gap?

Gender stereotypes contribute to pay inequalities by influencing discriminatory hiring practices and promotion decisions. These biases can lead to women being undervalued and underpaid in the workplace. Challenging these stereotypes is essential for achieving pay equity.

How does the gender pay gap affect women of color in the United States?

In the U.S., Black women earn only 63.7 cents, Native women 59 cents, and Latinas 57 cents for every dollar that white men earn, indicating a wider wage gap for women of color. These disparities result from intersecting factors of race and gender discrimination. Addressing this issue requires targeted policies that consider both racial and gender inequalities.