FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

March 22, 2024

Sacramento, California – She Shares, an organization dedicated to amplifying the voices of women leaders, hosted "Advancing Pay Equity: Strategies for Closing the Gender Pay Gap in California," on Wednesday night to a packed house at the Kimpton Hotel.

Renowned for her advocacy for gender equity, California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, on the heels of the release of her Equal Pay Playbook,, underscored the benefits of advancing pay equity to create a fair and diverse workforce.

“Pay equity is critical to women being able to achieve not only the American dream but also the California dream,” said First Partner Siebel Newsom. “By ensuring equal pay for equal work, we not only empower women but inject $400 billion back into California's economy.”

She added, “Diverse perspectives are essential in shaping our future; we cannot achieve a more prosperous and equitable California for ALL without women and women of color having seats at the table.”

The evening commenced with a meaningful fireside chat featuring First Partner Siebel Newsom, moderated by Daniela Pardo of Spectrum News. It was followed by a diverse panel of experts who shared insights, strategies, and best practices to address pay disparities.

The panel delved into insights on innovative solutions and collaborative approaches to closing the pay gap. The panelists explored actionable steps are needed for organizations to create a fair and equitable workforce environment where women can thrive both personally and professionally.

Panelists included:

• Tiffany Whiten, California State Council of SEIU
• Arielle Julie, Senior Manager of Brand Operations at Zillow and She Shares Board Member
• Jessica Ramey Stender, Policy Director & Deputy Legal Director at Equal Rights Advocates
• Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
• Kevin Kish, Director of California’s Civil Rights Department

The timely conversations during Women’s History Month acknowledged the strides that have already been achieved and what efforts still need to be made to progress even further. One panelist emphasized that closing the gender gap was about more than just equity of pay.

“This conversation is not just about equity of pay but about equity of power,” said Tiffany Whiten. "That kind of empowerment is needed to move the needle so there is less of an opportunity gap. Otherwise, we are leaving untapped talent and potential on the table."

Attendees included mentors and mentees from the She Shares program and students from St. Francis High School. The event offered attendees an opportunity to engage and network with leaders actively driving change in the fight for pay equity in California and accomplished professionals.

For more information about She Shares and its upcoming events, click here.

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About SheShares:

Launched in March 2012, She Shares is a unique conversation series featuring trailblazing women leaders who have created a lasting impact for women in California and beyond. Through candid conversations, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities, She Shares aims to unite women in business and provide learning opportunities from accomplished professionals. She Shares has been dedicated to amplifying the voices of women leaders who have made a lasting impact on women in California and beyond. By providing candid conversations and mentorship opportunities, She Shares continues to empower the next generation of women leaders.