Gender Wage GapThe gender wage gap is a well-known aspect of our gender inequality in America. In April 2013, the 50th anniversary of the Equal Pay Act 1963 was celebrated. This law was declared the “unconscionable practice of paying female employees less than male employees for the same work” (huffingtonpost) when it was signed. However, we have yet to see any change 50 years later. To this day, women still receive about 77 cents for every dollar a man earns. This may seem like a very small amount, but when added to an entire year's income, it can make a significant difference in the salaries of men and women. The gender wage gap is a significant and controversial issue in the United States and it must be resolved in order to regain equality between men and women. First, the gender wage gap is a huge political problem because parties cannot agree on its importance. A Huffingtonpost poll showed that 52% of Democrats say we need new wage laws, 27% of independents agree, and only 14% of Republicans agree. This poll shows that no one can agree on the importance of refining equal pay laws. Well, here's the thing: Many Americans believe men have more opportunities than women, but many don't believe the answer lies in new laws (Huffingtonpost). President Obama made the gender wage gap a key issue this year, but Republicans in Congress stopped Obama's efforts. For example, Obama signed an executive order increasing accountability for federal contractors to prevent wage discrimination. The next day, GOP senators blocked consideration of the Paycheck Fairness Act. This law was designed to increase reporting requirements for a...... middle of paper...... this woman then only earns about 75 to 80 percent (aauw). There are measures that must be taken to regain equality for women. Companies should conduct salary audits that clearly monitor and address pay gaps linked to gender bias. This keeps the company fair and ethical. Women must speak up, discuss and negotiate with their employers to obtain fair pay. Improving communication skills with your employer can help bridge this gap. It is clear that Congress has many oppositions and disagreements with current President Obama, but if Congress continues to push for new laws or at least something that would make it easier for women to receive equal pay, the gap could possibly be filled. Passing laws to protect women's equality is the most effective way to ensure that women will receive what they deserve. America needs to see equality increase for hardworking women in the country.