Black Women Deserve Equal Pay: Tips On How To Advocate For Yourself

If you’re like me, the thought of advocating for yourself comes with intense feelings. As a mom of two, the goal is always to make more money, but even I struggle with imposter syndrome – do I deserve it? I’m here to tell you, you do. 

Black women are paid only 66 cents for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men, reports Equal Pay Today. Black Women’s Equal Pay Day (July 10) was created to raise awareness around the pay discrepancy faced by Black women. 

It’s a day that reminds us — this ain’t just about the numbers. It’s about being seen and paid,” explained Nadia Vanderhall, financial planner and educator. “It’s a checkpoint. It reminds me to have the conversations that don’t happen enough — the ones about salary, value, and wealth. It’s a pause to honor the hustle and push the needle forward. And it’s a collective moment for us to say: we deserve more, and we’re coming for it.”

According to Vanderhall some discrepancies can’t be quantified, inequality can look like missed opportunities.

 “As of 2024, Black women working full-time earn about 66 cents for every dollar a non-Hispanic white man earns,” she said. “That’s not just numbers — it’s delayed homeownership, underfunded retirement, and fewer choices. Over a 40-year career? That’s over $900,000 lost on average. And we saw the stats around how many Black Women were laid off in April, I would love to see them return to jobs, asking for more money and negotiating their severance as they leave the company.”

Keep reading for some tips on how you can advocate for yourself and family when it comes to finances.

Q: What are three easy tips for a Black woman advocating for more pay?
A: Before you ask for more, know what you’re actually being paid for.
– Do the math before the meeting. Know your current take-home pay, benefits, what others in your role are making (Glassdoor, Teal, Levels.fyi, Built), and what’s missing in your comp package. Also, don’t be afraid to find someone else on another team in a higher position to give you their POV when it comes to how to move, some call it a sponsor – I call it another set of eyes.
– Practice your receipts. Document wins, numbers, and impact in your role. That’s your leverage, not just how long you’ve been there. Take those old emails and place them into a document and list how they align to key KPIs for your department, role, and company. Having a brag file is one thing – but being able to build context and a story to pitch yourself for more money is top tier.
-Use your “no” wisely. If the offer or raise doesn’t match the value, it’s okay to pause or push back. Rehearse your “no for now” with a follow-up ask in 90 days.

Q: What are key words to use when negotiating for yourself?
A: The right words shift the conversation from “nice to have” to “need to pay.” It’s not what you say, but how you say it.
– “Based on market research…” – Shows you’ve done your homework.
– “In alignment with the value I bring…” – Centers your contributions.
-“Is there flexibility in the total compensation package?” – Opens the door to more than just salary (think bonuses, benefits, stock, etc.).

-“Can we revisit this in 3–6 months with set metrics?” – Keeps the door open if they say no.

Also, look to see what “sayings” your industry, team, and management are using – flip that to position your power within asking for more and aligning to make it happen. This shows you not only know how to speak but are sure of your dialect when it comes to talking shop. No need to code switching, but showing you are the code.

Q: How can Black women advocate more for their finances?
A: The more you learn, the more you earn — but you have to move on what you learn. Learners are earners.
– Put yourself in rooms that talk money. That means industry conferences, community events, webinars, and LinkedIn spaces where salary, wealth, and ownership are part of the conversation. Don’t wait to be invited, crash the party – with favors: I mean, you’re asset to any company you’re at.

-Expand what you negotiate. It’s not just about base pay. Ask about signing bonuses, remote flexibility, paid sabbaticals, relocation help, 401(k) matches, and learning stipends. If they offer it to someone else, they can offer it to you.

-Read, ask, and apply. Follow money-focused content (like this), bookmark articles, ask questions in DMs or panels — but don’t just collect info. Pick one thing and act on it this month. Learners are earners when they execute.