Congressman Xavier Becerra on 51st Anniversary of President John F. Kennedy Signing into Law the Equal Pay Act of 1963

Statement

Today, Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA-34), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, released the following statement on the 51st anniversary of President John F. Kennedy signing into law the Equal Pay Act of 1963:

"Taking a historical step in addressing the wage disparity between men and women, President John F. Kennedy signed into law the Equal Pay Act of 1963.

"Today, hardworking American women still earn just 77 cents for every dollar a man earns, and unfortunately that gap is even worse for minority women. Earlier this year, Congress had the opportunity to strengthen the principles of the 1963 law by moving forward the Paycheck Fairness Act. But, like a broken record, House Republicans shutdown a vote to guarantee that women receive equal pay for equal work.

"As the father of three daughters who believes in the American Dream, I take the issue of a level economic playing field seriously--there is no reason why our mothers, sisters and daughters with equal experience and education should not receive equal pay.

"Equal pay is not just a women's issue--it's a family issue. Every child in America should have a shot at success; and having a mom who is fairly paid for her hard work opens that door.

"House Democrats will continue fighting to end wage discrimination in the workplace so American families can benefit from the economic prosperity they are working so hard to achieve. When women succeed, America succeeds."

Source