Empowering Women, Communities: A Path To Economic Equity: Op-Ed

By Supervisor Andres Jimenez (D-Mason)

MASON DISTRICT, VA — As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s important to reflect not only on the extraordinary achievements of women but also on the work that remains to ensure that women, particularly those in marginalized communities, have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.

Women have long been at the forefront of change, driving advancements in social justice, business, politics, and advocacy. However, the fight for economic equity is ongoing, and it’s essential that we continue to create opportunities for women to excel.

In Mason District, the cultural hub of Fairfax County, women have played a key role in driving
positive change. From organizations like Culmore-Baileys Crossroads PBI and the Culmore
Clinic to HACAN, women have been working tirelessly to meet the needs of their communities.

They’ve led efforts for healthcare access, affordable housing, and economic opportunity. In my
first year as Supervisor, I’ve seen these women advocate for change and actively make it happen.
Their leadership is a testament to the power of local advocacy, and it’s critical that we continue
to support their efforts.

A crucial partner in these efforts has been the Mason District Police Station. The police station
has played a vital role in fostering community engagement, especially with women-led groups.

Through community policing initiatives, the police have collaborated with local organizations to
address safety concerns and offer resources to underserved populations. This partnership has
been essential in building trust between law enforcement and residents, empowering women to
advocate for their needs in a safer environment.

This issue of economic equity is even more pressing given the findings from the Equitable
Growth Profile of Fairfax County. The report highlights that, while the county has experienced
economic growth, significant disparities persist in income, employment, and opportunity -
particularly for women of color. Women in Fairfax County, especially those from marginalized
communities, continue to face challenges in securing well-paying jobs and advancing their
careers. These disparities not only impact individuals but hinder the county’s ability to reach its
full potential.

The Equitable Growth Profile underscores the need for an inclusive economy, one where all
residents, regardless of race, gender, or geography, can share in the prosperity. As Supervisor of
Mason District, I am committed to addressing these inequities by advocating for policies that
ensure equitable access to economic opportunity for everyone. You can explore the full Equitable
Growth Profile here and the Equitable Growth Profile Summary here.

A significant barrier to economic equity is the gender pay gap, with women earning, on average,
82 cents for every dollar earned by men. This gap is even more pronounced for.
These disparities are not due to women’s qualifications or work ethic but are the result of
systemic inequities that undervalue women’s contributions. Closing this gap is crucial for the
economic health of our community.

In my work on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, I have advocated for greater pay
transparency and supported initiatives like pay equity audits to ensure that women are fairly
compensated for their work. I will continue to push for policies that close the gender pay gap and
hold employers accountable for pay disparities.

Another challenge is the struggle to balance work and family responsibilities, which
disproportionately affects women. Many women in Fairfax County are caregivers, whether for
children or elderly family members. This responsibility can limit their ability to advance
professionally. To address this, I’ve championed policies that support paid family leave and
flexible work arrangements for both men and women. A notable achievement has been increasing
paid maternity leave by two weeks, bringing the total to six weeks. This provides new mothers
with the time needed to recover and bond with their children without the financial stress of
returning to work too soon.

Equally important is ensuring that women are adequately represented in leadership roles across
all sectors. The underrepresentation of women in decision-making positions, especially women
of color, remains a significant issue. Whether in government, business, or technology, women’s
voices are often left out of critical conversations. It is vital that women have a seat at the table,
where they can influence policies and ensure that decisions reflect the needs of all communities.

In Mason District, we’ve made progress in increasing women’s representation, but there is still
much work to be done. I’ve supported initiatives that mentor and encourage women to pursue leadership roles, and I’ve worked to ensure that women’s voices are included in local decision-making. These efforts are essential in creating a society that values gender diversity in leadership.

Women entrepreneurs also play a key role in driving economic growth but face unique
challenges in accessing capital, resources, and networks. In Mason District, I’ve worked with
local chambers of commerce and business development organizations to help women
entrepreneurs overcome these barriers. By providing access to funding opportunities,
mentorship, and networking platforms, we can help women succeed in building their businesses.

Finally, mentorship plays an essential role in empowering women in the workforce. Providing
access to mentorship programs and networking events allows women to receive the guidance and
support they need to succeed. I have worked with local organizations to create these
opportunities, ensuring that women are connected with the resources they need to advance in
their careers.

As we honor Women’s History Month, it’s important to recognize the significant contributions of
women in our communities, particularly in Mason District. Women have been at the forefront of
grassroots efforts, from advocating for policy changes to organizing initiatives that address
community needs. The Mason District Police Station has played a key role in supporting these
efforts by building trust with residents and ensuring public safety. By continuing to work
together, we can create an environment where women have access to economic opportunities,
fair pay, and leadership roles.

By creating a more equitable economy, we are building a stronger, more inclusive Fairfax
County for everyone