As the AFL-CIO and Working America launch their sixth annual "Ask a Working Woman" survey, the latest figures show that women still earn significantly less than men—77 cents to the dollar. The survey gives working women the chance to comment on a range of issues, such as what they do when they need time off to care for a sick child or elderly parent, whether male co-workers are making more money for the same work, and what changes—in healthcare, pensions, flextime or other areas—would help make life a little easier. Since many working women are also working mothers, Mother's Day seems like an especially apt time to take a serious look at these challenges.

The survey will remain open online until June 20. The results will then be passed on to lawmakers and politicians to show what working women need. Last year's survey generated 22,000 responses, and organizers are hoping for even more this year.

May 8, 2008