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Lilly Ledbetter, Champion of Equal Pay, Passes Away at 86

The world lost a fierce advocate for women’s equality with the passing of Lilly Ledbetter at the age of 86. Known for her relentless fight for pay equity, Ledbetter’s legacy lives on through the groundbreaking Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, a law that forever changed the landscape of equal pay in the United States.

Born in Jacksonville, Alabama, Ledbetter’s journey towards justice began when she discovered a stark pay disparity between herself and her male counterparts at a Goodyear tire plant where she worked as a supervisor. This realization sparked a 10-year legal battle that ultimately led to a Supreme Court ruling in 2007, which inspired Congress to pass the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009.

President Barack Obama, who signed the act into law, paid tribute to Ledbetter’s unwavering determination in seeking fair treatment for all workers. Despite never seeking fame or recognition, Ledbetter’s impact on the fight for pay equity is undeniable.

Recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her advocacy, Ledbetter’s story continues to resonate with audiences across the country. A movie based on her life, aptly titled “Lilly,” is currently being screened to further spread awareness of her remarkable journey.

In her memory, let us continue the fight for equal pay and honor the legacy of a true trailblazer in the quest for gender equality. Lilly Ledbetter’s courage and determination will forever inspire generations to come. May she rest in power.

Who was Lilly Ledbetter and what was her impact on pay equity?

Lilly Ledbetter, a women’s equality activist, passed away at the age of 86. Her fight for pay equity led to the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. Jodi Solomon, her speaking manager, confirmed her death and described her as fierce and a crusader for equality. Born in Jacksonville, Ala., Ledbetter worked as a supervisor at a Goodyear tire plant in Gadsden, Ala., where she discovered she was paid less than her male counterparts for the same job.

What was the beginning of Ledbetter’s legal fight for equity?

In 1998, after finding out about the pay disparity, Ledbetter filed a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This action marked the start of a 10-year legal battle towards equity. She retired from Goodyear 11 months later and filed a gender discrimination lawsuit against the company in 1999. Despite winning the suit in 2003 and being awarded over $3 million, the amount was reduced due to a statutory cap and back pay.

What was the Supreme Court’s ruling on Ledbetter’s case?

The Supreme Court, in a 5-4 ruling in 2007, agreed with Goodyear’s argument that Ledbetter could only receive damages or back pay for the 180 days prior to filing her claim. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, in her dissent, stated that Ledbetter’s case was not time-barred and highlighted that the issue was in Congress’ court.

How did Congress respond to Ledbetter’s case?

Less than two years later, in 2009, Congress passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. This act amended the Civil Rights Act of 1964, allowing workers to recover back pay for up to two years preceding the filing of a charge. Then-President Barack Obama signed the measure into law on January 29, 2009, making it the first bill he signed as president.

How did Obama honor Ledbetter’s legacy?

In a statement, Barack Obama paid tribute to Lilly Ledbetter, acknowledging her advocacy for pay equity. He praised her for setting high standards for herself and her dedication to fighting for equality. Obama expressed gratitude for her advocacy and friendship and sent his love and prayers to her family and supporters continuing her fight.

What is the ongoing impact of Ledbetter’s story?

Lilly Ledbetter’s story continues to resonate, with her advocacy for pay equity being recognized and celebrated. Recently, she was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Advertising Week for her activism on Equal Pay. Additionally, a movie based on Ledbetter’s life, called "Lilly," is being screened across the country.

NPR’s Nina Totenberg contributed to this report.

Sources: NPR, Advertising Week