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EQUAL SALARY

LGBTQIA+ Pay Equality: Let’s Bridge the Gap Together

May 30, 2023
Bethany Carter

LGBTQIA+ Pay Equality: Let’s Bridge the Gap Together

In the workplace, discrimination and harassment against LGBTQIA+ individuals persist at alarming rates. Sadly, this results in a widening pay gap, especially when intersecting with race and gender identity.

Let’s shed light on the disparities that exist across identities.

On average, in the United States LGBTQIA+ workers earn about 90 cents for every dollar the typical worker earns (source: hrc.org)). When we dive deeper…

  • LGBTQIA+ men earn 96 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • LGBTQIA+ women earn 87 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • Non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, and two-spirit workers earn 70 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • Trans men earn 70 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • Trans women earn 60 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • LGBTQIA+ White workers earn 97 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • LGBTQIA+ Latinx workers earn 90 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • LGBTQIA+ Black workers earn 80 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • LGBTQIA+ Native American workers earn 70 cents for every dollar earned by the typical worker.
  • LGBTQIA+ Asian/Asian Pacific Islanders workers earn the same as the typical worker, at $1.00.

These gaps are not just about numbers; they reflect deep-rooted systemic issues fueled by racism, classism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. It’s time for a solution that not only addresses wage disparities but also protects LGBTQIA+ workers from discrimination.

For decades, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced an unsafe working environment. In a recent study (source: cap.org), 50% of LGBTQIA+ respondents, including 70% of transgender individuals, reported experiencing workplace discrimination or harassment based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or intersex status. This discrimination results in denied promotions, equal wages, training opportunities, and a stifling of personal expression.

To bridge this gap and create real change, organizations must prioritize inclusivity. Zero tolerance for prejudice and harassment is crucial for LGBTQ+ individuals to thrive. Equality must extend to hiring, promotion, and opportunity, as well as equal access to medical benefits for same-sex spouses and partners. Guidelines for gender transition in the workplace foster acceptance, value, and trust for trans individuals.

We must ensure that educational and occupational paths remain open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. Let’s empower individuals to choose fulfilling careers, regardless of their LGBTQ+ identity.

Reducing and ultimately eliminating the sexuality pay gap requires multi-pronged, cross-disciplinary action. Together, we can transform workplaces into inclusive spaces where everyone thrives.

Spread the word and take action.

 

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