According to the Associated Press

“The role of women in American society is significant. According to the U.S. Census, women make up more than 47 percent of the workforce and are dominant in such professions as registered nurses, dental assistants, cashiers, accountants and pharmacists.”

“They make up at least a third of physicians and surgeons, as well as lawyers and judges. Women also represent 55 percent of all college students.”

“Still, American women continue to be paid less than men, earning 80 cents for every dollar a man makes. The median income for women was $40,742 in 2015, compared with $51,212 for men, according to census data.”

In Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, there will be a “Women Workers Rising”  rally outside the Labor Department.

Organizers are calling on supporters to come and “be in solidarity with women workers — for an end to workplace violence and harassment and to promote pay equity, one fair living wage, paid leave and labor rights at work.”

Some conservatives on social media are calling the women’s strike vague and self-serving, and say it favors wealthy women.

Organizers are calling on all those who can’t take time off for the protest to wear red in solidarity.

They say red signifies love and sacrifice.