Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed August 26 as Women’s Equality Day, celebrating the achievements of North Carolina women and supporting their continued efforts for equity, justice, and inclusion. First celebrated in 1971 and established by U.S. Congress in 1973, this year marks the 50th anniversary of Women’s Equality Day, a day that commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment that granted some American women the right to vote.
“Strong women leaders in North Carolina have continued to pave the way in the fight for equality,” said Governor Cooper. “Equal pay for equal work, respect for accomplishments and equal opportunities for women continue to be the guiding stars of this effort."
This day also recognizes the continued efforts to advocate for the rights and privileges of all people regardless of sex, gender identity, race, religion, disability, or socioeconomic status.
“During the past few years, the NC Department of Administration’s Council for Women & Youth Involvement released a series of four reports in collaboration with the Institute for Women’s Policy Research to examine the status of women in our state as it relates to topics ranging from employment and earnings to political participation,” said NC DOA Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “While we’ve made considerable strides, more work remains not only to improve gender inequities across our state but disparities impacting our most vulnerable communities.”
This year, the NC Council for Women is celebrating 60 years of service in the community. For more than half a century, the Council has been the state’s leading voice on key issues impacting women, advising the Governor and state legislature on disparities afflicting North Carolina women.
Governor Roy Cooper and his administration continue to work to advance gender equality in North Carolina. In July 2022, the Governor signed Executive Order No. 263 to help protect women’s access to reproductive health services in North Carolina.
In May 2019, the Governor signed Executive Order No. 95, which provides state employees with eight weeks of paid parental leave after giving birth or four weeks of paid parental leave after a partner gives birth or to bond with and care for a child in the event of adoption, foster care or other legal placement. To date, more than 5,600 state employees have used Paid Parental Leave since the benefit became available.
In April 2019, the Governor issued Executive Order No. 93 directing state government agencies to ban the use of salary history in the hiring process. Removing the use of salary history can help close the gender pay gap for women and help families become more economically secure. Governor Cooper also signed Executive Order No. 82 in December 2018 to extend workplace protections and modifications to pregnant state employees.
In celebration of Women’s Equality Day all North Carolinians are encouraged to commend and support organizations and activities that advocate for social progress and equality for all.
Visit the NC Council for Women & Youth Involvement website for information on programs and services.
Read the Proclamation.
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