Feminization of Poverty Revisited

To change the differential impact that poverty and inequality have on women and girls, social workers must collaborate with women leaders in other disciplines.

The term “feminization of poverty” was coined in 1978 by social worker Dr. Diana Pearce.

On March 20, 2013, leading women advocates, health care professionals, economists, policy analysts, government officials, and other decision makers, joined NASW in Washington, DC, to explore the progress made since 1978, and to discuss new solutions for ending gender-based economic and social challenges.

Jean Anastas

Opening Presentation


Gloria Steinem

The Longest Revolution


Tina Tchen

Political Implications of Inequality


Theresa Kaijage

Poverty for Anybody is Dis-Ease for Everybody


Diana Pearce

The Feminization of Poverty 2.0



Health Panel

Laura Lein, Cecilia Firethunder, Phyllis Greenberger, Jane Delgado


There is a cost of being a woman at all stages, and the deficit follows her throughout her life. Theresa Kaijage, PhD, MSW, MPH, Founder and Director of Walio Katika Mapambano Na AIDS Tanzania