Women have historically faced numerous challenges in attaining economic equality, as highlighted by author Josie Cox in her book “Women Money Power: The Rise and Fall of Economic Equality.” The Women’s Business Ownership Act, passed as recently as 1988, allowed women to obtain business financing without a male co-signer. Even before that, women were not admitted into Ivy League colleges before 1969 and could be fired from their jobs for getting pregnant up until 1978. The concept of coverture, which deprived women of their legal identity and financial autonomy, further reinforced the lack of economic power women had historically.
Despite legal advancements, discrimination against pregnant women persists in corporate America. Cox notes that pregnancy discrimination remains rampant, underscoring the subtler forms of bias and challenges women continue to face in the workforce. While it may be illegal to fire a woman for getting pregnant today, the remnants of historical biases and practices still manifest in various forms, hindering women’s economic progress.
The repeal of Roe v. Wade dealt a significant blow to women’s access to healthcare and reproductive rights, intertwined with their economic empowerment. Cox highlights the detrimental impact of severe abortion restrictions on gender equality and personal freedom, emphasizing the intricate connection between women’s economic well-being and their reproductive rights.
Women continue to be underrepresented in leadership roles, comprising only a small fraction of Fortune 500 CEOs and political leaders. Cox stresses the importance of challenging biases about leadership and promoting gender diversity in positions of power. Additionally, she calls for a shift in societal perceptions regarding caregiving, advocating for the equitable distribution of unpaid labor between men and women to foster economic equality.
Menopause remains a taboo subject in many workplaces, impacting menopausal women’s professional opportunities and economic potential. Cox highlights the economic significance of menopausal women, who often possess valuable experience and skills conducive to senior and lucrative positions. However, workplace structures and practices do not always accommodate the needs of menopausal women, hindering their career advancement and economic empowerment.
Cox’s book features compelling stories of women throughout history who have championed gender equality, such as Dexter McCormick, a pivotal figure in bringing the first oral contraceptive pill to the American market. McCormick’s efforts to provide women with reproductive healthcare exemplify the vital link between access to healthcare and women’s personal, professional, and economic development. Her courageous actions underscore the importance of reproductive rights in enabling women to achieve their full potential.
Josie Cox’s exploration of women’s economic equality sheds light on the enduring challenges and disparities faced by women in various sectors. By delving into historical inequities and showcasing the resilience of women throughout history, Cox’s book underscores the ongoing quest for gender parity and economic empowerment. Through a critical lens, it is evident that despite progress, significant barriers to women’s economic equality persist, necessitating continued advocacy and societal change.