SPRINGFIELD — Despite the passage of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women across the country still do not earn wages equal to those of their male counterparts —leading State Senator Celina Villanueva to name March 25, 2025 Equal Pay Day in Illinois.

"Equal pay is not just a women's issue—it is an economic issue that affects families, communities, and the overall health of our economy," said Villanueva (D-Chicago). "We must continue to push for policies that close the wage gap and ensure that every worker in Illinois is fairly compensated for their work."

Senate Resolution 158 highlights the pay disparities faced by women and other marginalized groups. The average woman must work until March 25 to earn what the average man earned the previous year.

However, for many women, the gap is even greater. Asian American women must work until April 7 to bridge the gap, Black women until July 10, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women until Aug. 28. Latinas must work until Oct. 8, Disabled women until Oct. 23, and Native women until Nov. 18. Moms face a significant pay gap as well, with their Equal Pay Day falling on May 6, and LGBTQIA+ individuals must work until June 17 to earn the same as their male counterparts.

Senate Resolution 158 is an initiative of the American Association of University Women, a national organization dedicated to advancing gender equity through research, education, and advocacy. The resolution encourages people to learn about the history and impact of the gender pay gap and take action toward closing wage disparities.

"As long as these gaps exist, our fight for pay equity continues," said Villanueva. "Illinois is proud to be a leader in advancing economic justice, but we must remain vigilant to ensure that all workers – regardless of gender, race or background – receive equal pay for equal work."

Senate Resolution 158 was adopted by the Senate Thursday.