People benefit differently based on the current structure of society, so depending on who we're spending time with, it shouldn't be expected for both parties to pay equal amounts.
Women, on average, earn less than men. Canadian women, on average, earn C$0.69 for every dollar a man makes at work.
First dates are one small opportunity to recognise that people in society have different access to resources. If we want to be good company and good partners, challenging power imbalances is an important part of every relationship.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-46164568