The recent defeat of the Paycheck Fairness Act has revived the national debate about the gender gap. Despite the Democrats’ push, the legislation fell six votes short of passing in the Senate. In a recent memorandum, the GOP called the PFA a “desperate political ploy” that lacked “real solutions.” Republicans also questioned the validity of the statistic that women earn 77 cents for every dollar a man makes, saying this figure does not account for differences in experience and industry.
Those opposing the PFA contend that it would open companies up to increased litigation and place financial strain on businesses, as they would have to raise wages for women who earn less money than their male counterparts in order to avoid lawsuits. Although this position presents a valid argument, it overlooks the problem of gender inequality in the workplace. Legislators should prioritize the promotion of equality over the short-term financial prosperity of businesses.
Rep. Marsha Blackburn defended Republicans and said the notion of the GOP waging a war on women was “almost silly” before insisting that the GOP has led the way for women’s rights. Blackburn’s defense is ridiculous. While Blackburn is entitled to her opinion, her comments demonstrate her ignorance of women’s issues. Women should be united in the effort to achieve equality, not divided and defensive of actions that hinder their cause.
In spite of the GOP’s contention, studies actually show a disparity among male and female workers in a significant demographic — college graduates. According to a 2012 study by the American Association of University Women that analyzed wage inequity between men and women one year after their college commencement, female college students graduate into an inherent pay gap. The study, which approached the disparity using a variety of potential factors, found that men consistently earned more than women. This statement applies to men and women who majored in the same field. For example, the research found that a female business major earned just over $38,000 whereas a male business major made just over $45,000. Differences in institution type and university selectivity also did little to explain the inequality in earnings. This wage discrepancy is harmful to all women, but it can be especially detrimental when female graduates pay their student loans.
This harsh reality is particularly applicable to NYU students, where the ratio of women to men on campus is three to two. NYU also has one of the most expensive tuition rates in the nation and graduated students with more student debt than any other American university in 2011, excluding for-profit institutions. Our female students pay the same amount for an NYU degree as men do — they deserve to reap the same benefits for equal work.
A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday, April 16 print edition. Email the WSN Editorial Board at [email protected].