I've been in a funk ever since I learned a male colleague, who has been with the company as long as I have and had followed a similar career ptag (though I'be had more ownership/responsibility), makes $50,000 more than I do, as an out queer woman. We're both senior PMs.
It would be fine if I felt he was more effectual, but others at the company dislike him because he's selfish, smarmy, lazy, and a bit of a creep. I have far more responsibilities at the company, and I'm seen as a better team member.
I learned the information in confidence, and when I recently asked for a raise I was told they couldn't go above a 15% bump.
I want to ask the VP of our department about the discrepancy - she's another woman and she's been a kind, supportive mentor to me. But I've been told in other articles not to ask about these pay discrepancies directly. Should I ask her why he's paid so much more? Or should I keep my mouth shut and stew in my indignant rage?