United States

‘It's Very Frustrating': National Equal Pay Day Highlights Income Disparity

Although it may be closing, the country’s pay gap remains unequal and harmful for families and the economy, experts say.

To mark National Equal Pay Day Tuesday, Joan Goddard handed out cookies made with oatmeal, raisin and a not-so sweet message at the Santa Clara County building. Cookies were missing a chunk to reflect women in the United States earning 79 cents on the dollar made by men.

"It’s very frustrating," said Goddard, a retired librarian.

Meanwhile, in Washington D.C., politicians and Hollywood actors united in their stance against income inequality.

"They are off fighting our wars, making breakthroughs in science, taking care of our dying, decoding threats and giving birth to our next generation," said actress Patricia Arquette.

Women in California are faring better than the national average. They make about 84 cents for every dollar a man makes, according to experts.

The state auditor is studying the wage gaps of four counties, including Santa Clara County. The report is due to be released in late May.

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