Like others, Women Employed is incredibly disturbed by reports of multiple women experiencing sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct at the hands of former Rep. Benton. We are particularly dismayed that the systems and structures in place failed to protect women working in our state government.For decades, Women Employed has advocated for policies that facilitate reporting, mandate training, and outline clear processes that are vital to preventing and fighting sexual harassment. It remains […]

Some months, it’s a site visit. Some months, it’s a summit. And some months, it’s a policy briefing. But one thing’s for certain, two thing’s for sure, no matter the call, Women Employed is always ready to answer it. Because we don’t just talk about economic equity, we build it. One meeting, one presentation, and one trip to our nation’s capital at a time. And our progress is proof that the work is happening to build a more equitable economy for working women.Here’s a look back […]

For 20 years, The Pattis Family Foundation Summer Leadership Program, affectionately nicknamed SLP, has been changing lives and setting young people on a course for careers in social justice. When Women Employed (WE) launched our paid summer internship in 2006, we could not have foreseen the program’s longevity, or its vast and far-reaching impact. Earlier this month, we came together to celebrate the momentous occasion. Two decades of SLP alumni joined this year’s cohort, Women Employed […]

The Barb Yong Equal Pay Scholarship, awarded by the Equal Pay Chicago Coalition (EPCC), is to support social justice-minded college students (full- or part-time, 2-year or 4-year) from Chicago in their educational pursuits. This scholarship is designed for students dedicated to advancing social justice and addressing critical issues such as gender equity, racial justice, education access, and workers’ rights. As the backbone organization for EPCC, Women Employed (WE) is proud to share that […]

So, here’s the thing. School may be out for the summer, but that doesn’t mean that our work stops, takes a break, or goes on pause. It’s just heating up (all pun intended).June saw us facilitating a webinar on original research that explored the healthcare career journeys of Chicago women. WE participated in discussions surrounding collaboration, systems change, and the growing intersectionality of the challenges facing workers and job seekers across Illinois. WE celebrated with one our […]