Politicians Seek Solutions for Unemployment Among Black Women

• The unemployment rate among Black women has risen to 7.5% in September 2025.
• The discussion about unemployment issues took place at a round table in Boston.
• Participants advocate for solutions to improve the economic situation of Black women.

In the renovated meeting room of the Boston Public Library, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley posed a pressing question: why do Black women, who have some of the highest participation rates in the workforce in the country, now face rising unemployment faster than other groups?

Responses, received on Monday from politicians, academics, businesses, and community organizers, pointed to economic challenges that Black women are facing, which serve as a troubling signal for economists overall.

According to recent data, the unemployment rate among Black women increased from 6.7% to 7.5% from September to the end of this year due to government shutdowns.

This compares to an increase from 3.2% to 3.4% for white women during the same period. This rise continues a yearly trend of increasing unemployment among Black women in the face of economic uncertainty.

Many participants at the round table view this data as a reflection of the ongoing and systemic inequities faced by Black women.

Pressley noted: "When we are losing workers, everyone suffers." She expressed concern that many women with unique qualifications are losing opportunities.

Although Black women are projected to have the highest participation rate in the workforce among women in 2024, their unemployment remains higher than that of other groups of women.

Historically, their unemployment rate has worsened during economic downturns. Black Americans are often represented in sectors such as retail, health care, and social services.

Participants at the round table pointed to structural inequities, but most recent changes were linked to actions by the federal government. They criticized the Trump administration's recent business development agencies for minorities and the cancellation of certain contracts, which negatively impacted Black women.

They also discussed solutions to improve the situation, including utilizing state budgets to support Black women-owned businesses, expanding microcredit, increasing resources for government contracts, and ensuring transparency in hiring.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune emphasized the necessity of continuing efforts and initiated initiatives around diversity, equity, and inclusion as vital for a healthy workforce.

Tags: USA/Politics/Economy