ATLANTA – State Representative Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale), Sandra Scott (D-Rex) and Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) seek to join a coalition of advocates, lawmakers and community members from across the country to raise awareness about the wage gap that impacts Black women and their families. On Thursday, July 27, these legislators will also participate in Black Women’s Equal Pay Day 2023, a national event that will highlight the pay gap for Black women.
“My mom enjoyed her life and managed her finances, but when she had to leave her home due to early signs of dementia, I saw first-hand the importance of wages for women,” said Rep. Burnough. “Today, we need to advocate for equal pay so that our families will have equal opportunities and experiences.”
“Equal pay for women is crucial for workplace gender equality,” said Rep. Scott. “It’s unacceptable that women still earn less than men for the same work. Closing the pay gap requires proactive steps from companies and society. Providing equal opportunities, pay transparency and challenging stereotypes are vital. Let’s break down barriers and ensure women have an equal chance to thrive. It benefits society when everyone is treated fairly. Empowering women economically leads to stronger families and communities.”
“Equal pay is not just about dollars and cents – it is about recognizing the invaluable contributions of Black women and holding society accountable for the wage disparity they continue to face,” said Rep. Schofield. “On Black Women’s Equal Pay Day 2023, let us remember that true equality can only be achieved when we champion fairness, dismantle systemic biases, eradicate gender and racial discrimination, as well as ensure every woman receives the recognition and compensation she rightfully deserves. Equal pay for Black women is long overdue.”
These legislators’ dual calls to action focus on uplifting Black women in the workplace. First, Reps. Burnough, Scott and Schofield urge the U.S. Congress to modernize and strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963 by passing the proposed Paycheck Fairness Act, federal legislation which aims to close loopholes in the Equal Pay Act of 1963. These state legislators also urge Gov. Kemp to leverage federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funding to address underrepresentation and ensure Black women have access to higher-paid jobs.
Representative Rhonda Burnough represents the citizens of District 77, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and currently serves on the Economic Development & Tourism, Governmental Affairs, Higher Education and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Chief Deputy Whip. She also serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes portions of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Interstate Cooperation and Small Business Development committees.
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