The problem of inequality in the labor market, mainly, the issue of unequal pay, was a source of public concern in the U.S. several decades ago. Although the current equality rates also leave much to be desired, the situation observed in the 50s and early 60s called for an immediate change, which was eventually produced in the form of the Equal Pay Act (EPA) in 1963 (U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission). Due to the support of critical social changes in the education system, the EPA of 1963 has provided extensive opportunities for women in advancing in their careers, therefore, providing additional support for women’s liberation.
In essence, the EPA of 1963 should be credited for introducing the notion of protected characteristics into the context of the U.S. labor market and employment setting. Apart from sex as a protected class, the EPA of 1963 lists the characteristics such as race and ethnicity, stating explicitly that discrimination based on the specified characteristics is outlawed and entails significant repercussions for employers (U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission). However, studies show that, due to the absence of rigid and unceasing control over the relationships between an employer and an employee, the instances of discrimination based on sex, race, and ethnicity still occur (Safstrom 135). Therefore, further adjustments must be made so that the act could protect marginalized groups to a greater extent.
Due to the combined effect of the changes in payment rates that the Equal Pay act of 1963 entailed and the introduction of educational and employment opportunities for women, the EPA contributed extensively to the further promotion of female liberation. Introducing a chance for economic and financial independence for women, the EPA has reinforced the significance of equal opportunities and the support of marginalized groups in the workplace.
Works Cited
Safstrom, Jennifer. “Salary History and Pay Parity: Assessing Prior Salary History as a Factor other than Sex in Equal Pay Act Litigation.” Yale JL & Feminism, vol. 31, 2019, p. 135-165.
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. “The Equal Pay Act of 1963.” EEOC.gov, 1963, Web.