Black Women and the Double Burden

The compounded effect of racism and sexism is explored in a new book by award-winning Harvard economist Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman.

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In a profound exploration of the intertwined issues of racism and sexism, Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman delves into the systemic inequalities faced by Black women in her upcoming book, The Double Tax. This Harvard economist sheds light on the staggering impact these social constructs have on the economic stability and opportunities for Black women, who have experienced a significant exodus from the labor force since the onset of the pandemic.

Over half a million Black women have been reported to have left their jobs during this period, a trend that raises red flags for the economy as a whole. Gender economist Katica Roy makes an important point: “When Black women are pushed out of the labor force, we all lose.” The Double Tax is timely, presenting data that illustrates not just individual experiences, but systemic challenges that result in cumulative disadvantages for Black women.

Opoku-Agyeman expresses her motivations for writing this book candidly. “Information is all over the place,” she notes, pointing out that much pertinent research is often hidden behind paywalls. Her aim is to centralize this information, allowing readers a starting point for difficult conversations about race and gender. By weaving together data and personal narratives, she hopes to create a foundational text that empowers readers to engage deeply with these pressing issues.

The foreword for The Double Tax is penned by none other than Chelsea Clinton, a partnership Opoku-Agyeman values for its commitment to women and girls. Their previous collaborations highlight a critical aspect of the book: the necessity of recognizing women of color within broader women’s spaces. Opoku-Agyeman urges an inclusive dialogue, stating, “This is not just a book for Black women… but also white women should absolutely pick the book up.”

Utilizing extensive research, Opoku-Agyeman illustrates how Black women incur higher costs across various life domains—job opportunities, salary disparities, housing, childcare access, and even generational wealth accumulation. One of her most eye-opening findings pertains to the staggering financial burdens associated with motherhood. She explains, “The chapter about motherhood changed my brain chemistry.” This speaks to the often-ignored reality of parenting costs in America, particularly the price of quality childcare, which she insists remains a topic shrouded in silence.

Focusing specifically on the disproportionate effects of childcare costs, Opoku-Agyeman points out that Black mothers, who often serve as primary breadwinners, face particularly dire financial pressures. “It’s not just that you’re taking a share of the Black mom’s income,” she emphasizes, “but the Black mom tends to be the one who’s paying the bills.” This creates a cycle of financial strain that permeates their lives, compounding over time in ways that are both shocking and troubling.

The book also draws attention to the issue of occupational segregation, where Black women are overrepresented in low-paying jobs, often lacking the economic mobility afforded to their white counterparts. “It’s 2025… and we still can’t pay women an equal amount of money,” Opoku-Agyeman laments. This stark reality raises important questions about the future of equality in the workforce.

While the discussion of the double tax might seem centered on Black women, Opoku-Agyeman argues its implications extend beyond that demographic. “The best outcome for Black women is a better outcome for everyone else,” she asserts. She positions Black women as a barometer for economic health in society, suggesting that understanding their challenges offers crucial insights into larger systemic failings that affect everyone.

In sum, Opoku-Agyeman’s work is not just a critical examination of the compounded burdens faced by Black women, but also a vital call for collective action. By confronting these issues head-on, she emphasizes that society can create a more equitable landscape that ultimately benefits all demographics.