7 Markers

The equal participation of women in politics is essential to building communities where both men and women can thrive. While women are a powerful part of the electorate, and they inform policymaking, they are underrepresented in governments across the country.

A state's political participation score evaluates four measures: voter registration, voter turnout, representation in office, and institutional resources.

Gender equality at work remains elusive: women who work full-time, year-round earn only 78 cents on the dollar compared to men. Little progress has been made in the last 10 years to close the gap. The Employment & Earnings score ranking for each state is based on women’s annual earnings; the gender earnings ratio; women’s labor participation; and the percent of women employed in managerial or professional occupations.

Women make up almost half of the workforce but are also the large majority of family caregivers. Many women lack access to basic supports, like sick days and job-protected paid parental leave.

The Work & Family score takes into account paid leave, dependent and elder care, child care, and the gender gap in labor force.

Even with access to education, health care and business networks, many women struggle to achieve financial security. Poverty & Opportunity scores are determined by four indicators: health insurance coverage, college education, business ownership, and the poverty rate.

Limitations to women’s reproductive rights have increased across the nation in recent years, making it harder for women to access health services and information that they need.

Reproductive rights scores are based on the presence or absence of sex education, access to affordable birth control, adoption laws, coverage of infertility treatments, and family planning.

Poor health poses obstacles to women’s financial stability, educational attainment, and employment. Health & Well-Being is ranked based on nine indicators, including mortality rates from heart disease and breast cancer; incidence of diabetes and AIDS; and suicide mortality rates.

Threats to women’s safety profoundly affect their economic security, health, and overall well-being. This metric includes the incidence of domestic violence, rape, stalking, and workplace harassment.