Press Release: Closing the Wage Gap - San Diego's Latina Leaders Unite for Latina Equal Pay Day

While our focus is typically on AI, this event brings attention to an important issue that affects the entire tech industry, including AI: pay equity and representation. We believe that fostering diversity in all areas of tech, including AI, is vital for the growth and innovation of the industry.

On October 3, 2024, Latinas in Tech San Diego will host a powerful event in honor of Latina Equal Pay Day, shining a light on the persistent wage gap that continues to disadvantage Latinas in the tech industry. Despite their growing presence, Latinas are underrepresented in tech's high-paying roles and remain the lowest-paid demographic. This event will provide attendees with actionable strategies to advocate for equitable pay and career advancement.

With over 40,000 members across 25 Chapters around the world, Latinas in Tech is a global movement making significant waves in the tech world. The San Diego chapter, launched in February 2024 by a group of passionate Latina leaders, is quickly becoming a key driver for change in the local tech ecosystem. San Diego County, home to more than half a million Latinas who make up 17% of the population, is uniquely positioned to benefit from this event aimed at closing the wage gap.

Why Latina Equal Pay Day Matters

Latina Equal Pay Day marks the point in the year when Latina pay finally catches up to what white, non-Hispanic men made the previous year. On average, Latinas earn 54 cents for every dollar earned by their white male counterparts, leading to significant economic challenges. At this rate, pay parity in tech won't be achieved until 2077, according to the Kapor Foundation. Representation in leadership roles is similarly limited, with Latinas holding just 1% of C-suite positions and 3% of board seats in tech companies.

The Latina Equal Pay Day event will feature two powerhouse keynote speakers who embody leadership and innovation. Erika Flores, Head of CLS Global Manufacturing Operations and member of both the CLS Executive and San Diego Site Leadership teams, will share her journey of navigating the tech industry while advocating for equity. Joining her is Nora E. Vargas, Chairwoman of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, who made history as the first Latina, first binational, and first woman of color to hold this position in nearly 200 years. “As the first Latina to serve as Chairwoman of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, I am committed to addressing the inequities Latinas face in the workforce. Latina Equal Pay Day is a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve pay equity. Latinas in tech, like women across many industries, are consistently underpaid and underrepresented in leadership roles. This event is an opportunity to come together, demand fair pay, and empower the next generation of Latina leaders to break through those barriers and thrive,” said Chairwoman Vargas. Both leaders will inspire attendees with their insights on breaking barriers and championing representation for Latinas in leadership roles.

Latinas in Tech San Diego board members share their hopes for the event's impact on advancing pay parity for Latinas in tech:

"The tech industry holds immense potential for Latinas, yet we are still fighting for equity and recognition. Our goal with this event is to provide practical tools and create pathways for Latinas to grow in their careers and break the barriers of pay inequality."– Nicole Rosales, Sponsorships Lead, Latinas in Tech San Diego Board Member

"Latinas in San Diego are a powerful force of talent and innovation, and through events like Latina Equal Pay Day, we are working to ensure their contributions are valued and fairly compensated." – Claudia Huerta, Finance & Community Partnerships, Latinas in Tech SD Board Member

"It’s unacceptable that Latinas are still facing such a wide pay gap in 2024. By hosting this event, we hope to build awareness and provide the tools needed to close the gap, one negotiation, one promotion at a time." – Cristina Madrigal, Events and Social Media Lead, Latinas in Tech SD Board Member

"We launched Latinas in Tech San Diego because we saw the tremendous potential in our community, but we also recognized the obstacles. This event is about empowering Latinas to challenge those obstacles and take charge of their careers." – Iris Ayala-Swindell, Operations Lead, Latinas in Tech SD Board Member

"Latina Equal Pay Day is not just a reminder of the wage gap we face—it's a call to action. We are here to empower Latinas to not only claim their seat at the table but to thrive in spaces where they've been historically underrepresented." – Tina Searcy, Chapter President, Latinas in Tech SD Board Member

Partnerships and Sponsors

This event is proudly sponsored by ASML, a leading global company in the semiconductor industry, whose advanced technology plays a key role in producing microchips that power the devices essential to our daily lives. ASML’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is helping shape a more equitable future for the tech industry, making them an ideal partner for this critical event.

Join Us!

• Date: October 3, 2024

• Time: Doors Open at 5pm, Event is from 5:30-7:30 PM

• Location: 17075 Thornmint Court, San Diego, CA 92127

• Host: Latinas in Tech San Diego, in partnership with ASML

Let’s unite to close the gap and empower Latinas in tech to reach their full potential! For more information, visit Latinas in Tech San Diego or contact Claudia Huerta at the information provided below.

🔗 RSVP today! 

Registration closes one week prior for security. IDs required.

About Latinas in Tech

Latinas in Tech (LiT) is a non-profit organization connecting, supporting, and empowering Latina women in the tech industry. With a global network of over 40,000 members, LiT seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable tech landscape through career development, mentorship, and advocacy.

Contact: Claudia Huerta, Latinas in Tech San Diego

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (760) 607-2261