The mistreatment of Black women is not a new or surprising concern in the United States. Whether it is in education, relationships, or the workforce, Black women often struggle with inequality in this country.
For years, I have been hearing about the wage gap between Black women and other groups of people. Complaints about Black women being paid less than their colleagues have always bothered me. It was not until I got even closer to stepping into my career that I began to educate myself on this issue. When I enter the workforce, I would be devastated to learn that my white colleagues were making more than me, especially with the same credentials.
There are several factors as to why this wage gap is present. Racial discrimination, gender bias, job discrimination, workplace harrasment, and lack of diversity and inclusion policies are just some of the reasons as to why Black women are statistically paid less. Black women in the United States who work full-time, year-round are typically paid just 64 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men, according to the National Partnership for Women and Families. Overall, women, employed full time, are typically paid 83 cents for every dollar paid to men.
This gap between wages significantly affects Black women’s lives. A lower wage directly contributes to poverty and lack of housing. Black children are harmed because their parents are often not making enough to support them or save for their future. Generational wealth can be hard to build, because one is not earning enough to do more than simply survive.
Some ways to eliminate the wage gap are for Congress to pass more equal pay laws, educating everyone on the issue, and putting more diversity and inclusion programs in place at companies. Closing the gap would save so many families from suffering, or living in poverty simply due to workforce discrimination.
Workforce discrimination is not only present in pay. Another common issue is the lack of opportunities given to Black women in the workplace.
One story that always sticks with me is my bosses’. As a Black woman, she felt that her white colleagues were always chosen over her for higher management positions that included more pay. She expressed that she had the same experience, qualities, and qualifications. So why were they always promoted over her? I cannot say that it is simply because she was a Black woman, as I am not the one promoting. However, one cannot help but to think it plays a factor.
It is my wish that in my lifetime, I can see this wage gap close. We are already seeing an increase in Black women becoming firsts. There have been a number of new Black female doctors, lawyers, CEO’S, etc.
As a journalist student at Hampton University, one Black woman that inspires me is Rashida Jones. In 2021, she became the first Black woman ever to lead a cable news network. She started, and many will follow.
It is our job to educate ourselves on the present discriminations in the workforce. Through our increased methods of communication, I truly believe that our generation will be the one to put an end to it.