Lilly Ledbetter, a former Alabama factory manager whose lawsuit against her employer brought attention to the issue of wage discrimination, has passed away at the age of 86. Ledbetter’s lawsuit against Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. failed when the Supreme Court ruled in 2007 that she had filed her complaint too late. However, two years later, former President Barack Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act into law, giving workers the right to sue within 180 days of receiving each discriminatory paycheck.
After her legal battle, Ledbetter continued to advocate for equal pay policies, receiving the Future Is Female Lifetime Achievement Award and having a film made about her life starring Patricia Clarkson. Her dedication to the cause inspired many, including Equal Pay Today director Deborah Vagins, who praised Ledbetter for her sacrifice and determination in fighting for pay equity. President Joe Biden marked the 15th anniversary of the law named after Ledbetter with new measures to help close the gender wage gap.
Despite the progress made by the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, advocates like Ledbetter and Vice President Kamala Harris have pushed for the more comprehensive Paycheck Fairness Act, which aims to strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963. While some Republican lawmakers oppose the law as redundant, supporters believe it is necessary to protect workers from retaliation for discussing their pay. Both Obama and Biden have expressed their appreciation for Ledbetter’s tireless efforts in advancing pay equity.
Ledbetter’s legacy has left a lasting impact on the fight for equal pay, with individuals like Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff acknowledging her influence in advocating for “equal pay for equal work.” The widening gender wage gap, as reported by the Census Bureau, has further reinforced the urgency of addressing pay disparities between men and women. Experts attribute the enduring gap to various factors, including the overrepresentation of women in lower-paying industries and challenges in the childcare system.
In 2018, Ledbetter shared her experience of facing harassment and pay discrimination in a New York Times opinion piece, highlighting the interconnected nature of workplace issues. Despite losing her case before the Supreme Court, Ledbetter’s determination to change laws for the better persisted, with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s dissenting opinion inspiring her to continue the fight. The bipartisan support for the Ledbetter Act showcased the importance of enforcing equal pay laws and holding employers accountable for discriminatory practices.
Overall, Lilly Ledbetter’s legacy serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for pay equity and the need for continued efforts to ensure fair treatment and compensation for all workers. Her perseverance in the face of adversity and her impact on legislation have paved the way for progress in addressing wage disparities and promoting equal opportunities in the workplace. Ledbetter’s advocacy has left a lasting imprint on the fight for gender equality and serves as a beacon of inspiration for those striving to create a more just and equitable future for all Americans.
