Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Lilly Ledbetter, a trailblazing women’s equality activist, passed away at the age of 86. Her tireless fight for equal pay led to the historic Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, a landmark piece of legislation that reshaped workplace equality in the United States.
Born in Jacksonville, Alabama, Ledbetter worked as a supervisor at a Goodyear tire plant in Gadsden. It wasn’t until she received an anonymous note revealing that she was paid less than her male counterparts that she took action. This discovery sparked a 10-year legal battle for equal pay, culminating in a victory that paved the way for future generations of women.
Ledbetter’s perseverance and courage in the face of adversity brought about significant change. Her impact was so profound that less than two years after her Supreme Court case, Congress passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. This legislation, signed into law by then-President Barack Obama, allows workers to seek relief for pay discrimination up to two years before filing a charge.
Despite never seeking fame, Ledbetter’s advocacy for equal pay earned her widespread recognition and respect. She was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Advertising Week and a film based on her life, “Lilly,” continues to inspire audiences across the country.
As we reflect on Ledbetter’s legacy, it is clear that her fight for equality resonates now more than ever. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting for fairness in the workplace. Lilly Ledbetter may have left us, but her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Lilly Ledbetter, the activist who inspired the Fair Pay Act, dies at 86
Who was Lilly Ledbetter and what was her fight for equal pay?
Lilly Ledbetter was a women’s equality activist whose efforts led to the passing of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. She passed away at the age of 86. Her fight began when she discovered she was being paid less than her male colleagues who held the same position at a Goodyear tire plant in Alabama. This discovery led her to file a complaint with the EEOC in 1998, marking the start of a 10-year legal battle for pay equity.
What was the outcome of Lilly Ledbetter’s gender discrimination lawsuit against Goodyear?
After retiring from Goodyear and winning her lawsuit in 2003, Lilly Ledbetter was awarded more than $3 million. However, due to legal limits, the amount was reduced to $300,000 in damages and $60,000 in back wages. Goodyear appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, which ruled in their favor in a 5-4 decision in 2007.
How did Congress respond to Lilly Ledbetter’s case?
Less than two years after the Supreme Court ruling, Congress passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. This act amended the Civil Rights Act of 1964, allowing workers to seek relief for pay discrimination up to two years before filing a charge. President Barack Obama signed the bill into law on January 29, 2009, in honor of Lilly Ledbetter’s fight for equal pay.
What was the impact of Lilly Ledbetter’s advocacy for equal pay?
Lilly Ledbetter’s advocacy for equal pay was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award from Advertising Week. A film based on her life, titled “Lilly,” is being screened across the country. Her story continues to resonate with people, inspiring others to fight for pay equity and gender equality in the workplace.
In conclusion, Lilly Ledbetter’s legacy as a trailblazer for equal pay will continue to inspire future generations to strive for fairness and equality in the workplace. Her dedication and perseverance have left a lasting impact on the fight for gender equality and pay equity.