Washington senators meet with Megan Rapinoe to champion equal pay

Both of Washington state’s senators – Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray – held a news conference to show Megan Rapinoe support of her push for equal pay for the U.S. Women’s National team and all women.

“I want to say to Megan and her teammates, you inspired us — to take this fight to the Senate floor now,” Senator Cantwell said on Sunday morning.

Murray and Cantwell have introduced federal measures requiring equal pay for the women’s national soccer teams. Senator Murray also introduced the Paycheck Fairness Act, which Senator Cantwell cosponsored. The legislation seeks to close loopholes in the Equal Pay Act to ensure women are paid fairly.

“The House passed this legislation 123 days ago. I’m here to say, Mitch, take it up. Mitch McConnell, take this bill up,” Senator Murray said.

The press conference was held Sunday morning ahead of the Reign FC game where Rapinoe will be honored for her role in the World Championship run. She is not playing, however, because of an injury.

“This team takes an incredible amount of pride in the work that we do off the field, in the way that we inspire not only other teams, but women. We very much understand the intersectionality of all things equality.”

It was great to join @USWNT co-captain & World Cup Champion @mPinoe, @SenatorCantwell & @CityofTacoma Mayor Woodards today! Whether on the soccer field or in an office or a restaurant—we must stand up for what’s right & close the pay gap for every woman in our country. #EqualPay pic.twitter.com/wfUWdQPwH1

— Senator Patty Murray (@PattyMurray) July 29, 2019

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