As Black Women Face Unemployment Challenges, a Roundtable of Policymakers Searches for Solutions

December 13, 2025

Representative Ayanna Pressley convened a roundtable discussion in Boston to address the alarming rise in unemployment among Black women, which jumped from 6. 7% to 7. 5% between August and September.

Who is affected

Black women workers and job seekers
Non-profit organizations and small businesses (particularly those owned by or employing Black women)
Minority-owned businesses
Federal workers (particularly Black federal employees)
Communities served by businesses and organizations employing Black women
The broader economy and workforce

What action is being taken

The Trump administration is downsizing the Minority Business Development Agency
The federal government is cancelling contracts with non-profits and small businesses
The administration is conducting mass federal layoffs
The administration is opposing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives

Why it matters

Black women's rising unemployment rate serves as both an indicator of systemic inequality and a warning about broader economic instability. Despite having the highest labor force participation among women, Black women are being pushed out of the workforce, depriving society of their expertise and specialized skills. Historically, Black women's unemployment trends have widened during economic downturns, making this current divergence a potential bellwether for larger economic troubles. The situation reflects deep structural inequities that, if left unaddressed, could harm the broader economy and weaken the country's business and political leadership by excluding significant talent and perspectives.

What's next

Using state budgets to bolster business development for Black women
Expanding microloans to different communities
Increasing government resources for contracting
Requiring greater transparency on corporate hiring practices
Encouraging state and federal officials to enforce anti-discrimination policies

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint