The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, often hailed as “America’s Sweethearts,” are celebrating a significant victory off the field. Amidst a challenging 2024 season for the football team, the cheerleaders have been granted a historic 400% salary increase. This substantial raise marks a pivotal moment for the squad, which has long been criticized for its low pay despite being an integral part of the Cowboys’ brand.
As documented in the latest season of the Netflix series “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” the raise was announced at the end-of-season banquet. Kelli Finglass, the squad’s director, praised the cheerleaders for their efforts, stating, “You guys have moved some mountains this year that will forever change our organization and hopefully dancers’ organizations across the world.”
Historical Context and Criticism
The Dallas Cowboys, valued at approximately $9 billion, have faced scrutiny over the years for the compensation of their cheerleaders. Reports from NBC Sports Boston in 2022 highlighted that the cheerleaders were earning between $15 to $20 per hour, translating to an average annual salary of $22,500. This figure starkly contrasts with the franchise’s immense financial success.
Many cheerleaders balance their roles with other jobs due to the previous pay structure. Charlotte Jones, the Cowboys’ chief brand officer and daughter of owner Jerry Jones, has defended the compensation, emphasizing the limited professional dancing opportunities, particularly within the NFL. “It is about being part of something bigger than themselves,” Jones commented during the first season of the Netflix series.
The Path to Change
The journey towards the salary increase was not straightforward. Megan, a fourth-year veteran cheerleader, recounted the process to Netflix, explaining how discussions initiated by Finglass led to the groundbreaking decision. Although the exact figures remain undisclosed, estimates suggest the new pay could reach around $100,000, a significant leap from previous earnings.
“Happy isn’t even the right word for it. I just felt relief and it was finally, we were done fighting,” said cheerleader Jada McClean to Netflix.
Armani, a fifth-year cheerleader, expressed pride in contributing to this milestone, noting that the raise will be part of her legacy even after she leaves the team.
Broader Implications and Future Prospects
The salary increase for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders could set a precedent for other professional cheerleading squads across the NFL and beyond. The move highlights ongoing discussions about fair compensation and recognition for cheerleaders, who play a crucial role in the sports entertainment industry.
Experts suggest that this development could encourage other teams to reevaluate their compensation structures, potentially leading to industry-wide changes. The cheerleaders’ fight for fair pay resonates with broader movements advocating for gender equality and fair labor practices.
According to industry analysts, “This raise is a significant step forward, not just for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, but for professional cheerleading as a whole.”
As the cheerleaders celebrate their victory, the focus now shifts to how this change will influence other teams and the overall perception of cheerleading as a profession. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have set a new standard, and their success story may inspire similar changes across the sports world.
The next steps involve monitoring the impact of this raise on the cheerleaders’ lives and careers, as well as observing how other teams respond to this landmark decision. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ journey from underpaid performers to well-compensated professionals is a testament to the power of advocacy and perseverance.