Dear Editor:

This Tuesday, April 19 is Equal Pay Day – a national day of recognition that women in America still fall behind our male counterparts in terms of real earnings. It’s also days after the Federal Income Tax filing deadline.

As a full-time employee, mother of two, and a dutiful taxpaying citizen, I understand the value of a dollar, and I know all too well how pay inequity affects my family’s bottom line. I paid equal taxes on April 15. Why should I not expect equal pay?

Nationally, the U.S. Census Bureau reports for 2004 that the average woman earns just 76 cents for every dollar earned by the average man -- and the situation is even worse for women and men of color. African American women make 66 cents on the dollar, while Hispanic women make only 55 cents. That's $24 less to spend on groceries, housing, child care and other expenses for every $100 worth of work we do.

That’s why I’ll be joining other workingmen and women this year who speak out on Equal pay. I think the great promise of this country is that a hard day’s work should mean an equal day’s pay. The average woman makes just 76 cents for every dollar of an average man’s paycheck. Economic equity is an issue that affects everyone. Working together, we can help ensure that all Americans get the respect that comes with a fair paycheck.

Sincerely,

YOUR NAME
CITY, STATE