State-Of-Black-Oregon-2015

Kimberlin ButlerPresident, Urban Leagueof Portland YoungProfessionalsBLACK WOMEN IN THE WORKFORCEBlack women are more likely to beresponsible for the financial stability of thehousehold.Black women are more likely to take on therole of decision-maker in the household. It’sdifferent in the workplace.Black women experience a “double outsider”status:• Negative stereotypes• Frequent questioning of their credibilityand/or authority• Lack of institutional support• Exclusion from informal networks• Conflicted relationships with Whitewomen”Whereas 74%of the general householdpopulation has a spouseor partner present,only 60%of Black households do. 10SOLUTIONS:• Enforce “Equal Pay for Equal Work” lawsin Oregon so that hard-working womenand their families are on a level playingfield• Provide tax credits for more equitableworkforces• Ensure paid sick time and family leave forall workers 1197