Recent statistics reveal that in September, a staggering 309,000 women aged 20 and over voluntarily left the workforce. This trend is part of a broader movement, aptly termed “the great resignation” by psychologist Alex Harper, where workers across various sectors are stepping away from their jobs to advocate for improved working conditions, including higher pay, better benefits, and more equitable treatment.
While certain demographics are leaving their jobs at higher rates—particularly in tech, healthcare, and among mid-career professionals—women seem to be particularly disillusioned with their work environments. According to new insights from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, analyzed by the National Women’s Law Center, this month marks the largest decline in women’s labor force participation since September 2020, which saw an exodus of 863,000 women.
As we approach the third year of the global pandemic, its impact on workers is evident across the board. Notably, while 182,000 men secured employment last month, the challenges for women remain pronounced. The NWLC highlights that unemployment rates for Black women aged 20 and older stood at over 7.3% last month. Although this marks a slight improvement from the previous month’s 7.9%, it underscores the ongoing struggles faced by Black women in securing stable employment amid one of the most severe economic downturns in U.S. history.
The pandemic has spotlighted long-standing societal inequities affecting Black Americans, especially regarding access to healthcare and essential support systems like child care and paid leave. Many women of color are disproportionately impacted by these issues. The data indicates a decrease in unemployment among Latina women, from 6% to 5.6%, and Asian women, from 4.2% to 3.4%.
A spokesperson for the NWLC commented to The Hill, “Women are overrepresented in sectors hardest hit by the pandemic, including retail, hospitality, health care, and the public sector. Additionally, women are more likely to shoulder caregiving responsibilities, exacerbated by a nationwide shortage of child care workers and the low wages that these essential workers receive.”
Moreover, even prior to the pandemic, working conditions were unsustainable for millions of women, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. The focus shouldn’t just be on unemployment rates; the quality of life and work for women is paramount. The NWLC argues for necessary reforms, including substantial investments in child care services, universal paid leave, and extending the Child Tax Credit, many of which are part of President Biden’s Build Back Better plan currently under deliberation.
It is clear that change is essential for the majority of American workers, and it’s time for elected officials at all levels to take meaningful actions that will support women in the workforce.
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Summary:
In September, over 300,000 women left the workforce, highlighting significant challenges faced by women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. The pandemic has led to increased awareness of systemic inequalities, calling for urgent reforms to support women workers.