UNLV Study Reveals Gender Pay Gap in Nevada, Sparking Calls for Equity

The researchers from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas have unveiled their latest discoveries following an investigation into the gender wage gap in Nevada.

A year ago, Kara Jenkins aimed to become the mayor of Las Vegas. However, this attorney and advocate for women’s rights has shifted focus; she previously served as an administrator at the Nevada Equal Rights Commission and now runs her own enterprise. “Now I have more freedom to act according to my principles and share insights based on being a resilient African American woman with extensive experience in Nevada,” she stated. Addressing the disparity in wages between genders forms a key component of her current objectives.

New data from the Pew Research Center indicates that in 2024, women earned approximately 85% of the amount men earned on average, which marks progress compared to 2023 when this figure was at 81%.

Regarding racial and ethnic demographics, the disparity becomes more pronounced, with Black women making only 70% of what white men do. In general, women receive just 65% of the earnings compared to their male counterparts.

Moreover, men tend to hold higher positions as bosses or top managers at their jobs compared to women. "The situation is quite straightforward. We perform identical tasks, possess equal abilities, and receive similar compensation," Jenkins stated.

The problem of wage disparities is increasingly drawing interest from academic circles. Scholars at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) examined gender-based salary differences among men and women in Nevada. This research spanned multiple years, and according to study lead author Becky Harris, they identified an alarming pattern in a particular sector.

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"When we queried regarding the demographic profile of the most highly compensated individuals across all organizations, it became clear that these positions were predominantly held by males," said Harris. She noted that upon entering the job market, women generally receive salaries comparable to those received by men. However, she pointed out what’s known as 'the broken rung,' an issue highlighted by our survey findings. This phenomenon occurs during the transition to one's initial managerial role; at this juncture, women often fall behind professionally." According to her, many capable, well-educated, and skilled women are part of today’s labor force yet might lack proficiency in self-advocacy. The university aims to address this gap moving forward.

"Programming aimed explicitly at women and vulnerable groups has been created to teach them how to effectively navigate their workplaces," stated Harris.

When questioned about whether this places the responsibility on those facing discrimination rather than the decision-makers, Harris stated that they are also considering cultural shifts.

Kara Jenkins mentions that she is also focusing on corporate culture via her company "Simply the Best Consulting." She is committed to breaking the glass ceiling with each of her clients. "This isn’t about complicated theories; it’s all about equality and justice," she stated.

News 3 conducted further research beyond the UNLV study to uncover concrete figures highlighting any wage gap in Nevada.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023 the women to men earnings ratio was 85.3%, better than Pew Research Center's national findings that year and in line with the center's latest national findings.

It's crucial to recognize that there are regulations designed to safeguard women against wage discrimination.

A lawyer specializing in labor issues informs News 3 that it’s challenging to provide evidence, and many females avoid litigation for fear of being ostracized professionally.