The Gray Area with Sean Illing What pandemic recovery should look like
May 27, 2021
Janelle Jones, Chief Economist at the Department of Labor, shares her insights on post-pandemic economic recovery. She highlights the unequal impacts on blue-collar and Black workers, emphasizing the need for policies that prioritize marginalized communities, especially Black women. The conversation delves into systemic disparities in unemployment rates, advocating for a shift towards inclusive measures that foster economic equity. Jones also discusses the importance of moving beyond pre-pandemic mindsets to create sustainable solutions for a fairer labor market.
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Disparate Economic Realities
- Economic realities vary drastically depending on the individual's circumstances.
- The pandemic exacerbated these disparities, highlighting the uneven impact on different groups.
Jones's DOL Experience
- Janelle Jones, Chief Economist at the Department of Labor, discusses her initial months in the role.
- She expresses surprise at the vastness and variety of the department's work, exceeding her prior understanding.
Economy: Positive But Incomplete Recovery
- The US economy shows positive signs, with average job growth around 500,000.
- However, complete recovery, especially inclusive recovery, requires sustained effort and time.