Resolving to improve the quality of life for women and working families, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Robert Reich reaffirmed his commitment to women’s rights at a press conference at his headquarters in Cambridge Friday afternoon.

“Nobody should be working in poverty,” he said. “Especially women.”

Reich said he will “maintain a tough crusade against companies that exploit their workers.” Raising minimum wage is a campaign priority, he said, explaining his plan to link minimum wage to inflation in order to ensure a living wage.

Women make up the majority of individuals receiving minimum wage, Reich said. He elaborated on a proposed program that would enforce a paid family and medical leave system, allowing women to remain at home after giving birth, without the possibility of losing their job.

State Rep. Patricia Jehlen (D-Middlesex) said she was “proud and honored” to be speaking on behalf of Reich, who she said will take steps in the right direction for America’s families. She cited a measure, supported by Reich, which will specifically benefit women.

“Robert Reich’s successful efforts to raise the minimum wage and pass the Family and Medical Leave Act show that he understands the real needs of working families and will fight for them as governor,” Jehlen said.

Jehlen addressed the importance of Tuesday’s primary, which will decide whether Reich will move on to face Republican candidate Mitt Romney in the November general elections.

“If we can make it through Tuesday, we’ll make it in November, she said.”

Massachusetts union organizer Donna Shaw described Reich as a man of humor and integrity who “brought labor back to life.” Shaw said she believes Reich genuinely supports workers and women, and is not merely claiming so for political gain.

“He will not compromise values on the backs of working people,” Shaw said.

Former Clinton White House Deputy Chief of Staff Maria Echaveste worked with Reich while he was serving as United States Secretary of Labor. She cited his efforts to address women and labor issues while in that position.

“I saw firsthand how hard Bob Reich worked to achieve economic equality and security in the workplace for women – overseeing a leadership staff composed of 25 percent minorities and 50 percent women,” Echaveste said. “I’m sure he’ll bring the same dedication to diversity and excellence to the governor’s office.”

Reich stressed he is “not [running] a campaign of endorsements … it is not the quantity of the advertisements, but the quality of the person … [I will] make this a state we can be proud of. For all men, and for all women.”