A Move Toward #EachforEqual

Today, we celebrate International Women’s Day! With the new decade upon us, I want to take this time to reflect on how much progress we’ve made toward gender equality, but also recognize that our work is nowhere close to finished. We still need equality in the workplace, in the boardroom, in the media and in our courts. Why? Because an equal world is an enabled world.

Did you know that the average gender pay gap in the United States is around 19.3%, which means a woman earns 80.7% as much as her male colleague, according to the U.S. Census Bureau? That is why when I wake up each morning, I actively choose to honor the achievements of all women, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality. By coming together, we can help drive a world where gender equality and equal pay exists…By coming together, we can be #EachforEqual.

When I look around me, it is clear that women are the foundation of the workplace, of their homes and tradition. As a Latina woman, and one that is fortunate to have a public voice, it’s important for me to represent such a strong community of underrepresented women. I saw mi abuela work harder than anyone and not get the recognition, support and pay she deserved. I want strong, independent women like mi abuela to see me and my daughters making a difference for future generations of Latina women. So, with my family, friends and colleagues, it’s important that we inspire each other and embrace our heritage and diversity because it makes us better leaders, entrepreneurs and parents.

Whether I’m with my colleagues, my family, or my girlfriends – to achieve #EachforEqual – it’s all about fostering a strong community of women who celebrate one another’s achievements – ready to encourage each other through every journey. As a boss and a mom, community is important to me because every woman needs a community of ladies who stand with her, to cheer her on and empower others. That is why at Honest more than 60% of positions at the VP-level and above are currently held by women. Having women represented in leadership and heard at all levels of the organization is extremely critical. Our voice matters as businesswomen, as consumers, and as drivers of our economy.

As a Latina, female founder and mom, every day is women’s day to me. Looking at my two smart young daughters, I am inspired each day to fight for their rights, voices, and opportunity to succeed. But women cannot do this alone. Collectively, all people have a responsibility to make progress for the next generation of female leaders. My husband and I both strive to create a world for our daughters in which men and women are equal in all aspects of life.

I want to thank all of the powerful women and men who have stood up for inequality and paved the way for women today. I know I’m not alone in thanking those who came before us and fought for generations of women like my mom, myself and my daughters. I vow to continue the fight for equality for future generations of women. Empowered women, empower women. Let’s continue to push the envelope and fight for equality!

Today I challenge you to tag a strong woman below and comment how you plan to implement #EachForEqual in your life.