The Journey toward Equality in Federal Employment

Aspirations in Adversity

When I was a child, I held a dream to become the first Black woman on the Supreme Court. Growing up in Richmond, Virginia—the heart of the Confederacy—this dream may have seemed audacious. Yet, in many ways, it was simple; I was merely aspiring to a federal job. This ambition was deeply influenced by my mother, who spent 35 years working for the federal government at the Departments of Treasury and Defense. After the passing of my father when I was a middle schooler, she single-handedly raised three daughters. While she lacked a college degree, she excelled in roles that offered the security and stability we needed. Though we were not affluent, my parents owned our home and we had health care—a fortunate situation that allowed me to harbor big dreams.

Federal Employment as a Pathway to Progress

Many Black families share similar narratives, where federal employment has served as a reliable pathway to the middle class. For generations, these jobs have been central to our economic advancement. However, recent actions by the Trump administration threaten to undermine this progress. Systematic dismissals of Black federal workers are creating substantial economic hurdles for communities already facing manifold challenges.

The Language of Dismissal

The administration has employed various euphemisms—such as “reductions in force” and “restructuring”—to describe these mass firings. Yet, the unspoken truth underlying these actions is racism. Executive Order 9980, signed by President Truman in 1948, laid the groundwork for fair employment practices in the federal government, promoting hiring without discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin. Prior to this, Black Americans faced rampant discriminatory barriers to employment. With these orders, the federal government signaled an overdue welcome to Black workers.

The Statistical Landscape

The impact of these policies has been profound. Although Black Americans constitute approximately 13% of the U.S. population, they represent nearly 20% of the federal workforce—with particular concentrations in agencies like the Departments of Education and Housing and Urban Development, where Black workers made up 36% in 2024. Nevertheless, substantial disparities remain; Black employees are still less likely to occupy high-paying positions and face significant underrepresentation in military leadership and among top congressional staff.

A Shift Backwards

Since the beginning of his second term, President Trump has enacted numerous executive orders aimed at dismantling federal diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. These measures have disproportionately targeted agencies where women and people of color are predominant. His actions suggest a deliberate focus on removing Black women from positions of authority, exemplified by attempts to dismiss figures like Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Notably, his administration has largely been composed of white men.

Rising Concerns in the Private Sector

The repercussions of these policies extend beyond public service. Alarm bells are sounding in the private sector, where the unemployment rate for Black Americans has risen from 6.2% to 7.5%. Black women have been particularly affected, experiencing the brunt of job losses. While no president carries full responsibility for every economic indicator, the current administration’s stance seems to embolden discriminatory practices in the private sector.

Implications for Society

The ramifications of driving Black professionals out of public service affect the entire country, compromising the governance and stability our society relies on. Despite not fulfilling my childhood aspiration of becoming the first Black woman on the Supreme Court—an honor now held by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson—I recognize that my story reflects the potential for Black children and families to achieve great things when provided with opportunities that match their ambition. It underscores the urgent need for a president who seeks to dismantle, rather than perpetuate, the racism that continues to impede progress.

A Call for Action

In aiming to rectify the economic disparities faced by Black Americans, recognizing and reacting against systemic racism is essential. It’s not just a matter of equity; it’s about harnessing the full potential of diverse talents that can propel our nation forward. The future of federal employment should be one rooted in inclusivity, opportunity, and equal standing for all. This vision is not mere aspiration—it’s a necessity for a just society.

Jamila K. Taylor, Ph.D., is the president and CEO of the Institute for Women’s Policy Research.