RECOGNIZING JULY 21, 2026, AS “BLACK WOMEN’S EQUAL PAY DAY” IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Marie Pinkney

Designates July 21, 2026 as Black Women’s Equal Pay Day in Delaware to recognize pay gaps and promote awareness of wage equity, without new laws or funding.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 20 YES 1 ABSENT

Summary of SR 26 (Session 153, Delaware)

Purpose and intent

SR 26 recognizes July 21, 2026 as “Black Women’s Equal Pay Day” in the State of Delaware. The resolution aims to acknowledge and bring awareness to the ongoing disparities in pay between Black women and other groups, particularly white men, and to highlight the importance of pay equity and equal opportunity in the workplace.

Key provisions

Official designation: The Delaware Senate designates July 21, 2026, as Black Women’s Equal Pay Day within the state.

Observance and acknowledgment: The resolution requests acknowledgment of the day by state agencies, organizations, and the public as part of ongoing efforts to address wage gaps and promote economic equity.

Sponsor information: Co-sponsor listed as Senator Marie Pinkney. The action history shows introduction and passage in the Senate.

Who or what is affected

Government and public institutions: The designation serves as guidance for state agencies and public-facing communications to recognize the day.

Public awareness: The resolution seeks to influence dialogue and awareness around pay equity for Black women in Delaware.

No immediate policy Changes: As a concurrent or symbolic resolution, the bill does not, by itself, create new laws or spending or mandate specific programs. It serves primarily as a formal recognition and statement of policy goals.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction: The resolution was introduced in the Senate on June 23, 2026.

Senate action: Passed by the Senate on June 23, 2026 with a vote of 20 Yes, 1 Absent.

Next steps: If not already completed, the resolution would proceed to any required house action (e.g., be transmitted or read in the other chamber) per Delaware Senate rules. As a non-binding resolution, it does not require signature by the governor to take effect, though it may be presented to relevant state offices for implementation or commemoration.

Observations

The bill is symbolic in nature, focusing on recognition and awareness rather than establishing new legal standards, regulations, or funding.

It aligns with broader equity and anti-discrimination goals by highlighting the issue of pay gaps affecting Black women.

If you would like, I can add context on Delaware’s existing pay equity landscape or compare with similar observances in other states.