Although the median weekly wage of women has increased in recent decades, it is still largely lower than the median weekly wage of men employed in the same jobs. This pay gap also places an additional burden on women who are expected to stay at home in case of an emergency. In some cases they can't pay for daycare or rely on their companies understanding that someone needs to take care of family obligations. As a result, they are penalized when it comes time to find candidates for promotion and are seen as less trustworthy than their male colleagues. Finally, women face social prejudice against them that includes gender, appearance and race. It actually punishes them for reasons that are beyond their control and are not related to their job performance and abilities. Laws against gender-based discrimination, more flexible workplace arrangements and a change in our culture regarding women can help combat discrimination and help women reach their full potential in the workforce. By starting to allow more flexibility, paying women on a scale comparable to that used for men, and supporting women in their desire to care for their families, companies could set the tone for more equal treatment of women around the world.