The saying “Black people have to work twice as hard to get half as far” continues to reign true, especially in the workplace. Aside from unwarranted microaggressions and low representation in the workplace, new data shows Black unemployment rates are consistently rising. But what are the new catalysts driving these numbers? More importantly, what can Black people do to thrive in corporate America?
Black Unemployment Rates In 2024
In December, The U.S. Department of Labor released the unemployment rate data for 2024. It measured the unemployment rate from Nov. 2023 to Nov. 2024 based on race, gender, age and more. The data shows the Black unemployment rate increased from 5.8 percent to 6.4 percent. The increase is unfortunate, especially since the general unemployment rate for the American population didn’t increase that much in comparison. A report from The White House explains that the 2024 unemployment rate rose from 3.7 percent to 4.2 percent, which is bad, but not as staggering in contrast to the rate for Black people.
“Since the U.S. first collected such data, in 1972, the Black unemployment rate has consistently stood at levels twice as high as the unemployment rate among white people,” a February report from ABC reads.
Black Women’s Unemployment Rates In 2024
Additionally, further data was collected regarding the unemployment rate for Black women. The data showed that the unemployment rate for Black women rose dramatically, just in one month’s time. CNBC stated in a December article, “Black women experienced the most significant increase, with the jobless rate surging to 6% from 4.9%. In comparison, the jobless rate for white women ticked up slightly to 3.4%, compared to 3.3% in October.” This unemployment rate climb for Black women compared to their white women counterparts showcases disparities still prevalent in the workforce. When the national unemployment rate increases, even by a little, it affects marginalized communities more. Black women career coach Krista Witherspoon posted a TikTok in December sharing her thoughts on the data.
“Yep it’s bad. I’m tired of going to 4 to 5 interviews per company. It’s beyond skillset, they’re looking for a petty reason NOT to like you,” comments read under the post.
DEI Backlash and Changes
Since America is a racialized society, there are multiple reasons for the rising unemployment rates among Black people and Black women. Considerably the largest factor is the efforts to oppress DEI initiatives and leadership. An August report from PBS News reads, “From college campuses, to corporate America, the fear of legal liability and political backlash is leading some to backtrack or rebrand their diversity initiatives.” And an exclusive Bloomberg News Analysis states that in 84 of the top U.S. companies “the share of Black managers shrank after rising for two years.”
Will It Be Harder For Black Women to Get Jobs in 2025?
Based on the aforementioned data, it will be more difficult for Black women to get jobs. This especially applies to Black women who are seeking employment in cooperate America. But when you don’t get a seat at the table, you build your own. The National Center For Education Statistics listed Black women as one of the most educated demographics in the U.S. from 2021-2022. Additionally, the Brookings Institution reported that Black women are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S.
“Though far from equitable, the rate of business ownership for Black women is growing rapidly. Black women-owned employer businesses increased by 18.14% between 2017 and 2020—outpacing women-owned businesses (9.06%) and Black-owned businesses (13.64%),” the reported narrated.
But if starting your own business isn’t your thing, then building your own table means supporting the businesses that rally for Black women. Apply to work at Black-owned businesses that support your ideas and goals.
What Can Black People Do To Thrive In Cooperate America?
There’s no guideline on how to stay afloat in cooperate America as a Black woman. But in spite of the data, Black women are still thriving in the workplace. Although navigating the cooperate space as a Black woman is hard, it’s not impossible if it aligns with your career goals.
Finding mentorship both inside and outside your company is important. These people will advocate for you on your behalf, and give you advice when needed. In addition, joining diverse groups already established at your job —like a Black centered organization — will give you a support system. Finally, reserve some of yourself from your co workers when necessary. It may be best to not follow your co-workers and bosses on social media.