Today, Governor Whitmer has declared Equal Pay Day in Michigan, aiming to raise awareness about the persistent issue of unequal pay experienced by women across all job levels.
“Women in Michigan and throughout the country should be entitled to fair compensation for their work. It is disheartening to know that women who work full-time earn only 84 cents for every dollar earned by their male colleagues. The situation is even more alarming for women of color, who face even greater wage disparities,” expressed Whitmer.
“This inequality has far-reaching consequences for our economy and affects the well-being of countless families in Michigan. Ensuring fair compensation is essential in creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their gender, can thrive and achieve a fulfilling life. I take immense pride in the dedication and perseverance of every hardworking woman in Michigan, who tirelessly provides for herself and her loved ones. Rest assured, I will continue to advocate for your rights and tirelessly fight against gender-based wage disparities.”
According to the governor’s office, women in the United States who work full-time, year-round usually earn only 84 cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts. This wage gap translates to a potential loss of $399,600 over a 40-year career for women, and the disparity becomes even more pronounced when considering different races and ethnicities.
According to the governor’s office, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander women are paid only 93 cents for every dollar earned by their white, non-Hispanic male counterparts. Black women receive only 69 cents, Native women receive only 59 cents, and Latinas receive only 57 cents.
Black women, on average, experience an annual loss of $22,120 due to the wage gap. Similarly, Latinas face a wage gap that results in a loss of $30,450 per year. Native women also suffer from this disparity, with an average annual loss of $28,747. Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander women face a wage gap that translates to a loss of $4,690 annually.
