Pandemic Gains for Minorities and Less Educated at Risk as Job Market Slows
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Minority and less educated workers saw strong job gains during the pandemic recovery, but those could be at risk as the job market softens.
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So far, employment measures have not declined more for minorities and other vulnerable groups. But there are worrying signs like rising youth unemployment.
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Real wage growth has continued for Blacks, Hispanics, and low-wage workers, possibly due to pandemic labor dynamics.
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The pandemic recovery has been remarkably equitable so far in terms of unemployment across groups. But gaps are starting to widen again.
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If historical patterns hold, minorities and vulnerable groups may bear the brunt of any downturn. But pandemic policies and a tight labor market could break that trend.