Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su recently appeared on TheGrio's "The Hill with April Ryan" to discuss the Biden-Harris administration's initiatives that have helped produce record low employment among Black Americans. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' April 2024 Employment Situation Report reflects the positive impact of these efforts, highlighting the administration's commitment to narrowing the Black-white employment gap.
During the wide-ranging conversation, Acting Secretary Su and April Ryan, TheGrio's White House correspondent, delved into the administration's ongoing efforts to address historic barriers faced by Black and other people of color in the workforce. These challenges include workplace segregation, unsafe working conditions, and underpaying jobs. Acting Secretary Su emphasized the Department of Labor's dedication to reducing the disparity between Black and white employment rates, stating that "investing in Black America is investing in America."
When asked about the April jobs report, Acting Secretary Su proudly noted, "the Black employment rate in the labor market is at an all-time high, the Black unemployment rate is the lowest it has ever been, and the gap between Black and white unemployment is at the lowest it has ever been." She stressed that these impressive figures are part of a larger trend, indicating the sustained success of the administration's initiatives.
The data supports Acting Secretary Su's statements, revealing that from September 2022 to February 2024, the Black unemployment rate remained at or below 6% for the longest period on record. This remarkable achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of the Biden-Harris administration's policies in creating opportunities and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the unemployment rate for Black workers was 5.6% in April 2024, continuing the trend of historically low unemployment rates for this demographic. This figure not only highlights the progress made in reducing unemployment among Black Americans but also underscores the administration's commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive labor market.
Acting Secretary Su's appearance on "The Hill with April Ryan" serves as a platform to showcase the Biden-Harris administration's successful initiatives in addressing the unique challenges faced by Black Americans in the workforce. By tackling issues such as workplace segregation, unsafe working conditions, and underpaying jobs, the administration has demonstrated its dedication to creating a more level playing field for all workers, regardless of their race or background.
As the Department of Labor continues its efforts to narrow the Black-white employment gap, Acting Secretary Su's message remains clear: investing in Black America is an investment in the nation as a whole. The administration's focus on creating opportunities and breaking down barriers for Black workers not only benefits the individuals directly affected but also strengthens the entire economy by tapping into the full potential of the American workforce.
The record low unemployment rates among Black Americans, as reflected in the April 2024 Employment Situation Report, serve as a testament to the effectiveness of the Biden-Harris administration's policies. As the nation moves forward, it is crucial to maintain this momentum and continue implementing initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the labor market, ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the nation's economic success.
