A Melbourne café has taken a powerful stand to address the gender pay gap in the country, with three simple rules.
Brunswick vegan café, Handsome Her, introduced an 18% extra charge one week a month for men “to reflect the gender pay gap (2016)”. The funds accrued through the surcharge will be donated to a women’s service.
The café also gives women priority seating and champions respect.
“Well, it’s been a hectic couple of days. Who would have thought one little chalkboard would cause such a stir?” Handsome Her posted on Facebook.
“Notes from the real world – yesterday and today we were jam-packed with customers showing their support.”
While some upset men expressed their contempt for the extra charge—which is optional—others praised the idea.
“We’ve had men travel across town to visit us and pay “the man tax” and throw some extra in the donation jar – guys, you’re pretty neat,” the Facebook post read.
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The café is described as a safe space for women, run by women.
Owner Alexandra O’Brien told 7 News: “One week out of every month we have an 18 per cent premium for men which is the same as the gender pay gap”.
RELATED: The Latest Gender Pay Gap Figures Are In. And They’re Not Good
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