Regional Media Podcast Network

In Illinois, March 25, 2025, is designated as Equal Pay Day to highlight ongoing wage disparities, as stated by State Senator Celina Villanueva. Despite the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the pay gap persists, with women earning significantly less than men. Senate Resolution 158 emphasizes the disparities for various groups: Asian American women reach parity on April 7th to bridge the gap, Black women until July 10th, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women until Aug. 28th. Latinas must work until Oct. 8th, Disabled women until Oct. 23rd, and Native women until Nov. 18th. Moms face a significant pay gap as well, with their Equal Pay Day falling on May 6th, and LGBTQIA+ individuals must work until June 17th. The resolution encourages public awareness and action to address these inequalities. Villanueva stresses the importance of closing the wage gap for economic justice and equity in Illinois.