Women push for greater equality as barriers to jobs, housing and child care persist

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- More than a century after women won the right to vote, advocates in Durham say achieving true equality still means breaking down barriers that limit access to jobs, housing, health care and child care.

For Aliyah Johnson, equality starts with opportunity. Johnson is preparing for a career change and recently visited Dress for Success Triangle in Durham, where she received professional clothing to help her make a strong first impression as she searches for a new job.

"I've changed my career. I'm making more money. I'm able to save more money," Johnson said. The nonprofit's Durham boutique provides women with professional attire, shoes, handbags and accessories at no cost, helping remove one obstacle for those entering or re-entering the workforce. "I feel like I'm a professional. Like I literally look like I could walk up to somebody and sell you something," Johnson said.

Dress for Success Triangle has been serving women across the region for nearly 20 years. Senior Program Manager Joylyn Day said the organization helps boost confidence while supporting women navigating a competitive job market.

"We have shoes, handbags, accessories. She can literally leave our office and go directly to her interview," Day said. Day said job seekers face new challenges as technology rapidly changes hiring and workplace expectations.

"It's tough out here, especially with the introduction of AI. It's challenging to keep up with the new technology in the area," she said.

Despite decades of progress, women continue to face economic disparities. Advocates point to challenges such as unequal pay and barriers that can make it harder to achieve financial stability.

Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam said those disparities are often compounded by race, religion and ethnicity.

"It gets even deeper based on your ethnicity, religion and race. All of that, unfortunately, is a determining factor in the quality of life you receive," Allam said.

Allam says women have made significant gains but noted there is still work to be done. She works closely with the Durham County Women's Commission, which advises county leaders on issues affecting the social and economic opportunities of women.

According to Allam, some of the biggest barriers facing women in Durham County are tied to basic needs.

"Around access to jobs, housing, healthcare," Allam said.

She said a lack of child care continues to disproportionately affect women, particularly women of color.

"Not having access to childcare has a greater disparity and harm to women and especially women of color," Allam said.

Allam said having women in leadership and decision-making roles is critical to addressing those challenges and creating more opportunities for future generations. For Johnson, equality means having a chance to build a better future for herself and her children.

"If we stick together, we can get more things done honestly," she said.