Salary Transparency in Tech and Why Latinas Must Talk Numbers Loudly
Let’s cut straight to it: salary transparency in tech is a radical act of resistance for Latinas in tech.
We’ve been conditioned by white supremacy and patriarchy to stay quiet about money, especially as women of color. We're taught that talking numbers is "tacky," "ungrateful," "aggressive," and "unprofessional."
But keeping us silent about our pay is exactly how they keep paying us less.
If you’re wondering why Latinas in tech are still making 51 cents to a white man’s dollar, here’s the answer: salary secrecy is how they get away with it.
It’s time to break that silence.
Why Salary Transparency in Tech Is Non-Negotiable
When companies rely on secrecy, they get to continue underpaying Latinas while boasting about "diversity and inclusion." They’ll feature us on their websites and ask us to speak at ERG events, but when it’s time to show us the money? Suddenly, nobody wants to talk numbers.
So here’s what I’m here to say: we need to talk numbers loudly, unapologetically, and publicly because that is how we dismantle the system.
Salary secrecy is a system of oppression that thrives in the darkest corners of corporate America.
Talking about money is a radical act because it rips power away from the system that’s built to keep us broke and dependent.
Here’s Why Latinas Have To Talk Salaries Loud Enough To Shake The Room
1. Silence Benefits Them, Not Us
When we don’t share numbers, we stay isolated, confused, and underpaid.
When we share numbers, we create a roadmap for other Latinas to follow, which shakes the system.
Every dollar they underpay you is a dollar you don’t get to invest, save, or build wealth with.
If we’re out here breaking generational curses, we better start building generational wealth.
And that starts with talking about money.
2. They Already Pay white Men What They Ask For
If you think they’ll "reward you later for working hard," think again.
The system is designed to keep you waiting, grateful, and unpaid.
Meanwhile?
white men ask for more and get it.
They don’t wonder if they’re “too much.”
They don’t hesitate to talk numbers.
We need to do the same and then some.
Want to make sure you’re not getting lowballed? Let’s build your salary negotiation strategy in a free coaching call.
How to Use Salary Transparency to Get Paid What You Deserve
Get Loud and Talk About Salary Openly
They win when we whisper. We win when we talk.
This is what getting loud looks like.
Telling other Latinas exactly what you’re paid, including total comp.
Asking every single recruiter you speak with: "What is the salary range, including equity and bonuses?"
Refusing to accept "We don’t disclose that" as an answer.
Sharing when you find out, you’re underpaid because it helps the next Latina avoid the same trap.
Be Specific and Drop the Exact Numbers
We don’t need general advice. We need receipts.
"I make $147,000 base, with $40,000 in equity and a $20,000 bonus. You should not take less for this role."
"For this role, I was initially offered $120,000, but I negotiated to $160,000 because I knew what others were getting."
"If they’re telling you the range is $110K to $130K, but I was paid $150K for the same role, they’re lowballing you."
Because when we whisper, they win. And when we talk, we all win.
FAQs: Salary Transparency In Tech
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You are not being pushy. You are being smart.
Before we move forward, I would love to get a sense of the salary range for this role. Can you share that with me?
If they push back:
I want to make sure we are aligned on expectations. What is the budgeted compensation for this position?
They have a number. Make them say it first.
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Unless you signed an actual contract saying you won’t disclose pay, which is rare, they legally cannot stop you from discussing salary with coworkers.
If they are trying to scare you into silence, that is a company you should not trust.
Salary Secrecy in Tech Is a Form of Oppression
Talking about money is how we take that power back.
The only way to close the Latina pay gap is to make it impossible for them to keep getting away with it.
That starts with talking about salary loudly.
If you are ready to stop wondering what you are worth and start negotiating like the system wasn’t built to underpay you, let’s work together.