Empowering Latinas to Succeed
In 2019, there are all kinds of daily challenges women face that men simply don’t have to deal with. As much progress as the fight for gender equality has made over the course of decades, women’s rights still have a long way to go. Women are almost half of the workforce. They are the sole or co-breadwinner in half of American families with children. They receive more college and graduate degrees than men. Yet, on average, women continue to earn considerably less than men. The reality is that women are still fighting for fair and equal pay.
An American Association of University Women (AAUW) analysis of newly released U.S. Census Bureau data indicates that women working full time on average still make 80 cents compared to every dollar men make. Among women of color, the pay gap is even larger, especially among Latinas, who make on average 56 cents. At the current rate of progress, women will not receive pay equity until the year 2119. To make matters worse, change is creeping forward for Latinas, who will have to wait until 2124 for equal pay.
As I facilitate training and speak on stages across the country, I come across women who struggle with the daily reminder of how pay gap inequities are impacting them. They are not able to invest in their career growth, small business, or educational needs.
In 2018, I founded Power On Heels Fund, Inc., a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization focused on the advancement of Latinas in the marketplace and limiting the impact of pay-gap inequities. We provide specialized training programs, mentorship, and scholarships designed to enhance earning potential, accelerate professional growth, and cultivate future leaders.
Our mission is to lead, advance, and support the growth of Latina business owners, corporate professionals, and students by minimizing the impact of pay-gap inequities. Power On Heels Fund, Inc. partnered with the University of Houston–Downtown and the Tejano Center’s charter school, the Raul Yzaguirre School for Success, to bring our programs to the next generation of young Latina leaders. Power On Heels Fund, Inc. brings awareness to marginalized Latinas regarding opportunities to succeed. On November 1, 2019, Power On Heels Fund, Inc. will provide scholarships that allow award recipients to apply the funds for professional development courses, trade school, business certification, or college education. Our key aim is improving the economic empowerment of Latinas.
