If at First You Don’t Succeed…

Abstract

Moving from an understanding and awareness of a problem or crisis to the drafting of legislation to the passage of legislation can be a long process with many set backs. But advocates should not waver from their efforts. Though Massachusetts was the first state in the nation to pass an equal pay law in 1945, pay gaps continue to persist with real ramifications for women and families. Finally, after years of efforts from coalitions and individuals alike, in 2016, Governor Charlie Baker signed into law “An Act to Establish Pay Equity.” Chapter 4 also provides “Notes from the Field” from Dr. Jennifer Childs-Roshak and Tricia Wajda of the Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Masssachusetts on “Taking Action in the Trump Era: How the Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts Protected and Expanded Reproductive Health, Rights, and Freedoms” to provide “key takeaways” and best practices for advocates on how to persist despite setbacks and how to craft an effective campaign.