Black women continue to face the highest unemployment rates in the United States, with joblessness rising to 6.7% in August.
August’s figures follow several months of elevated unemployment, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Black women have lost over 300,000 jobs since February — including 266,000 in March alone, a 2.5% drop and the sharpest monthly decline since mid-2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A July report showed that Black women faced nearly 6% unemployment, marking three straight month of high rates. The rate climbed from 5.1% in March to 6.1% in April, peaked at 6.2% in May, and dipped slightly to 5.8% in June.
The trend is so alarming that Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Massachusetts) urged Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to take action, calling for a detailed plan to address rising unemployment among Black women and uphold the Fed’s mandate to maximize employment for all, AFROTECH™ noted.
“Black women are more likely than any demographic group to be enrolled in higher education, represent the highest-growing group of entrepreneurs, and disproportionately serve as breadwinners for our families,” Pressley wrote, referencing data from the Center for American Progress.
“When coupled with the fact that job openings and hires decreased overall since July 2024, you should see the current economic outlook as a glaring red flag that forebodes danger for the entire country,” she added.
Factors fueling the downturn include the Trump administration’s decision to implement mass federal workforce layoffs and roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion programs — both of which have disproportionately impacted Black women, who have long held vital roles in health care, education, and public service.
While these times are challenging and unprecedented, resources are available to help. Here are a few:
Global State of Women Relief Fund
SEED Media Founder Valeisha Butterfield is behind the Global State of Relief Fund, which offers one-time awards of $500–$1,500 to Black women facing financial hardship due to sudden job loss or economic crisis.
With priority given to single mothers, caregivers, and women in the hardest-hit industries, funds can go toward essentials like rent, groceries, childcare, or transportation, among others.
New applications will be added to a waitlist and reviewed as additional funding becomes available.
HerRise MicroGrant
The HerRise MicroGrant, provided by HerSuiteSpot’s Yva Jourdan Foundation, awards $1,000 each month to help under-resourced women — particularly women of color entrepreneurs — across various industries access the tools and resources to grow their businesses. Past awardees have used the funds for essentials such as computers, equipment, marketing materials, software, and website development.
Black Career Women’s Network
Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN) supports Black women’s success by providing culturally relevant coaching, leadership development, and tailored career strategies. Whether just starting out, looking to transition, or advancing up the corporate ladder, there are resources available for women throughout their journey.
National Association of Black Journalists C.A.R.E.S.
The National Association of Black Journalists C.A.R.E.S. (Career Assistance, Recovery, and Employment Search) allows both members and non-members to submit professional profiles for consideration. The program connects recently laid-off journalists with job opportunities and offers additional career support as available.
