Relative to Women’s Equality Day
The resolution does not alter state laws directly but emphasizes the importance of continued advocacy for women's rights and gender equality. It reinforces the state's commitment to acknowledging the contributions of women to California's economy and society while drawing attention to persistent issues such as wage disparity, lack of affordable child care, and workplace discrimination. By officially designating a day to celebrate women's rights, the resolution encourages public awareness and dialogue around these critical issues.
Senate Resolution 117 (SR117), introduced by Senators Leyva, Atkins, Bates, Fuller, Galgiani, Jackson, Mitchell, Nguyen, and Skinner, recognizes August 26, 2018, as Women's Equality Day. This day commemorates the anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. The resolution highlights the historical significance of women's rights in the United States and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in various aspects of society, including education, employment, and civil rights.
The sentiment surrounding SR117 is largely positive, with strong support from legislators who view the recognition of Women's Equality Day as an essential step toward acknowledging women's contributions and struggles in achieving equality. The resolution represents a unified stance among various stakeholders in promoting gender equality and acknowledging the barriers that women continue to face in California and beyond. However, there remains a recognition that substantial work remains to address gender disparities in various sectors.
While SR117 itself may not be contentious, the discussions surrounding it highlight ongoing debates about gender equality and the effectiveness of current policies aimed at addressing inequalities. Some may argue that merely recognizing a day does not sufficiently tackle systemic issues such as discrimination and unequal pay. Thus, while the resolution is celebratory, it also calls for reflection on the continuing challenges faced by women and the necessary policy actions that need to follow.