What you need to know about the wage gap in 2022
The wage gap has always been controversial in the United States. Many people still do not believe that there is a difference between what men are paid, and what women are paid.
While people should of course be paid more based on the amount of responsibilities they have at work, or their greater levels of experience, the wage gap is a different issue. The wage gap involves men being paid more than women outright, regardless of their experience levels or capabilities.
The wage gap can hit everyone, regardless of their industry. Everyone from chefs to mature female models can be affected by the wage gap. Let’s look into this gap further, why it occurs, and what we can do about it.
How big is the wage gap?
Although wage gaps can vary somewhat depending on the industry, generally speaking, it averages at 23%. This means that women typically earn about 77% of what men earn. How is this calculated? Primarily through the U.S. Census Bureau, which takes note of people’s professions and incomes, among other things.
The wage gap is not a straightforward issue, affected only by gender. Women of color, as well as transgender women, can be more heavily affected than white, cisgender women. Essentially, being a woman, in general, is a “starting point” for the wage gap. Women may be progressively more impacted by these additional factors.
Why does the wage gap exist?
There are many factors that have built the wage gap to where it is today. While women and men are beginning to work within the same industries, it can still be difficult for women to even obtain the same jobs as men. Certain professions like home health aides, child care workers, mature female models, and teachers have been considered historically female. Women have been paid comparatively lower wages for these jobs.
Women are also often pushed from the workforce to care for children, diminishing their experience. And the reality is that women face discrimination, often not taken seriously by their bosses, whether they’re mature female models or corporate employees.
This is why many today are pushing for legislation that will end the wage gap. Additionally, some companies are taking active steps to end gender discrimination and ensure that employees are properly paid. This is certainly progress!