WAGE is against all forms of sexism which are defined as beliefs, attitudes, norms and values used to justify sexual inequality. Women in particular are subject to sex discrimination both inside and out of the workplace. American women hold 29.4% more of the job market than they did in 1900, but are still suffering under sexual bias. Occupational sex segregation is a key issue that describes the concentration of women in lower-status positions and is something that many females face when finding jobs. Women are typically given "pink-collar" jobs such as nurses, teachers, and secretaries who typically support more male-dominated jobs (doctors, administrators, and businessmen). Not only is it common for women to work in lower-status positions than men, but it's also common for them to be paid lower wages to do the same amount and type of work. For example, female advertising executives were recorded to only make an average of 69% of what male advertising executives were paid. As of 2000, women in the U.S. were making, on average, 72 cents for every dollar a man earned. Conflict theorists believe that it is to the advantage to men if women are kept in lower status occupations and that is why sexism occurs in frequently in all parts of society.
Other than financial imbalances between genders, there is a power struggle that underlies the issue of sexual inequality. For example, most men expect women to take the male's surname after marriage rather than taking a woman's, combining the two surnames, or letting the woman keep her own. Also, when observing political matters, the number of women involved in legislature is significantly outweighed by the number of male participants.
These are things that have been taught to the general public since birth. Women are "supposed to" do household tasks such as cooking, cleaning and the raising of children according to functionalism. Men are "supposed to" be the source of power and wealth for a family, doing masculine jobs that require specific strengths or skills. These general beliefs are taught to people subconsciously whether a young girl receives a play-kitchen set for her birthday, or a boy is told to play sports outside with his friends.
These beliefs are generally carried into adulthood and this is why WAGE exists. We hope to abolish gender inequality by informing the public of the issue and taking action to advocate for women's rights.
