Jackie Speier: “45 years ago today, President Kennedy signed a law to end what he called the ``unconscionable practice of paying female…”

“45 years ago today, President Kennedy signed a law to end what he called the ``unconscionable practice of paying female workers less wages than male workers for the same job.'' When President Kennedy signed the law, women earned 60 cents for every dollar earned by a man. In 2006, the woman's share is 77 cents. While we have made some progress in 45 years, it is scant at best. Since 1963 the ratio has narrowed by less than one-half cent per year. At this rate, my 13-year-old daughter will be close to retirement by the time President Kennedy's order is realized. That is why I am cosponsoring H.R. 1338, the Paycheck Fairness Act, which adds teeth to previous laws. Equal pay for equal work is as American as a principle can be. This is not about men versus women, but basic fairness. And its ramifications affect everyone. Paying women less hurts men who aren't hired because hiring a woman is cheaper. It hurts families by devaluing the work of women and mothers who are already paying out of pocket for child care so they can pursue a career. In short, it hurts all of America, and it must end right here, right now.”