We Are On The Right Side of History
Since 1973, WE have opened doors for working women. WE have blazed trails, rewritten laws, defied rules, broken down barriers, and created fundamental, systemic change. WE helped outlaw sexual harassment and pregnancy discrimination. WE worked to make family and medical leave a reality. WE paved the way for millions to get their degrees. And WE are not done yet.
WE do not accept the status quo. WE do not ask permission. WE do not wait for things to happen.
WE pursue equity for all women.
And WE are not done yet.
2020s
We laid the groundwork for an innovative approach to empowering Black and Latina/x women to find the resources they need to start and grow businesses. Our Women’s Entrepreneurship Hub (WE Hub) gathers resources from trusted partners throughout Illinois into one central place. We provide personalized tasks and toolkits and access to a community, guiding women to achieve their vision of success.
2010s
After years of determined advocacy, we won a No Salary History bill in Illinois, which amends the Illinois Equal Pay Act to prohibit employers from asking job applicants for their salary history. This common practice contributes to gender and racial wage gaps.
2000s
WE won over $50 million to expand Illinois’ tuition assistance program for low-income students.
1990s
WE worked with a national coalition to win passage of the Family and Medical Leave Act, which establishes the right of employees to take job-protected leave for illness or care of a new baby.
1980s
WE published a first-ever set of recommendations for corporate policies to promote work/family balance and a handbook for working mothers.
1970s
WE participated in drafting new federal rules defining sexual harassment as illegal sex discrimination.
