Inch by Inch: Gender Equity Since the Civil Rights Act of 1964
23 Pages Posted: 5 Aug 2013
Date Written: 2013
Abstract
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was influential in leveling the playing field for women. More than the actual protections afforded by the act itself, it triggered subsequent laws that collectively have lessened the pay gap, provided protections from harassment, and increased opportunities for women to participate in education, sports, and workplace opportunities that were previously reserved for men. However, the pace at which these changes have occurred has extended over generations and the goal of parity has yet to be reached. This paper traces legislation that has helped women advance in the workplace and concludes by arguing for the expansion of how gender is conceptualized. Rather than the dichotomous male/female view, gender equity should embrace fairness for all, wherever they fall on the continuum from masculine to feminine.
Keywords: gender equity, Civil Rights Act of 1964, gender issues
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