As the daughter of a country doctor who helped establish one of the first Planned Parenthoods in Vermont, and a mother who was a feminist and community leader, Edie was raised with the understanding that we have an obligation to serve those in need and to actively improve the quality of life in our communities. She has carried this understanding into her life’s work, in both the private and public sectors. A successful advocate for progressive candidates and causes, civic leader, and mother of two, she has focused her energy and experience on reproductive rights, climate action, affordable housing, access to quality education for all, and working to increase voter participation in the election process.
Statistics show that Colorado women face a massive pay gap that is hurting families’ economic security and holding back economic growth. The problem is even more severe for women of color. If we close the pay gap, the poverty rate for working women will be cut in half and the Colorado economy would grow by over $9 billion!
Specifically, I was overjoyed to support and vote for the Equal Pay For Equal Work Act (SB 19-085). The bill requires businesses to pay all employees at the same rate regardless of gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, or national origin for substantially similar work. Still, even with a strong law in place, we must remain vigilant to protect fair opportunity in the workplace for all.