HARRISBURG, Pa., July 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Over the past four years, Pennsylvania women have made great strides in statistical measures of health, education and economic status, but continue to earn less than Pennsylvania men on average, find work in lower-paying jobs, and remain largely absent from the state political scene, according to the 2009 Status of Pennsylvania Women Report, released today by the Pennsylvania Commission for Women.

"This one-of-a-kind report provides a non-partisan, in-depth look at what the women of this commonwealth face, including all of the good news and all of the bad," said Commission for Women Executive Director Leslie Stiles. "We are pleased at how far women have come in terms of achievements and goals, but this report clearly details how much farther we have to go."

The report is divided into five main topics: women's political participation, socio-economic autonomy, employment and economic status, health and wellness, and violence. Both Pennsylvania and national statistics were used to tell the story.

Researched and written by the Pennsylvania Commission for Women, the 2009 Status of Women Report is an excellent research and reference tool that will help readers gain a better understanding of what Pennsylvania women need to advance and achieve equal standing in today's society. The report can be downloaded from the commission's Web site at www.pcw.state.pa.us, or a hardcopy can be requested by calling the Pennsylvania Commission for Women at (717) 787-8128.

The Pennsylvania Commission for Women, founded in 1974, serves to identify and advance the diverse needs and interests of Pennsylvania women and girls; to inform, educate and advocate for its constituents; and to provide opportunities to empower women and girls to reach their highest potential. The commission maintains a hotline and Web site with a host of resources for Pennsylvanian women, and in partnership with Governor Edward G. Rendell, hosts the annual Pennsylvania Governor's Conference for Women, scheduled for Sept. 17 in Philadelphia.

    CONTACT: Anne C. Bale
    (717) 787-8128

SOURCE PA Women's Commission

RELATED LINKS
http://www.pcw.state.pa.us