Marketplace All-in-One Rep. Ayanna Pressley on the troubling rise in Black women's unemployment
Sep 18, 2025
In this insightful conversation, U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley, a member of the Financial Services Committee from Massachusetts, addresses the alarming rise of unemployment among Black women. She emphasizes the need for the Federal Reserve to prioritize this demographic in their labor market strategies. Pressley shares troubling personal stories from her constituents affected by federal job cuts and highlights the negative impact of anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion trends. The discussion also touches on the broader implications for the economy.
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Black Women's Unemployment Is A Canary
- Black unemployment has risen sharply, with Black women hit disproportionately compared to the overall rate.
- Rep. Ayanna Pressley frames this as an early economic warning sign that requires focused attention.
Demand A Fed Plan By September 30
- Rep. Ayanna Pressley urges the Federal Reserve to analyze and produce a plan addressing rising unemployment for Black women by September 30th.
- She asks the Fed to use its mandate to promote maximum employment to include targeted responses for Black women.
Fed's Mandate Should Explicitly Include Black Women
- The Fed has a statutory mandate to promote maximum employment that should explicitly include Black women.
- Pressley has pressured the Fed to honor that mandate during her time on the Financial Services Committee.