Empowering Native Women in the Workplace: Overcoming Challenges

Native women bring invaluable perspectives and skills to the workplace. However, systemic barriers have made it difficult for many of us to achieve our full potential. This is the first of a two-part series where we explore the unique challenges Native women face in the workplace, from historical disruptions to wage gaps and discrimination. By understanding these challenges, we can work towards creating more inclusive and supportive environments that empower Native women to succeed.

The Challenges for Native Women in the Workplace

A History of Disruption
Colonization disrupted our languages, cultures, and societies, leading to long-term disadvantages. Systemic marginalization has limited our participation in education, government, and the economy.

Employment Instability
Native women often face higher job instability, especially in part-time roles, moving from employment to non-employment frequently.

Wage Gaps
Native women are typically paid only 59 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men. This wage gap results in an annual loss of $28,747 and nearly $1,149,880 over a 40-year career (National Women's Law Center, 2022).

The Impact of Wage Loss
Missing out on $1.1 million over a lifetime has significant implications:

• Financial Stability: Difficulty building emergency savings.
• Home Ownership: Challenges in affording down payments and securing mortgages.
• Education: Limited ability to afford higher education.
• Retirement Savings: Insufficient retirement funds.
• Healthcare Access: Reduced access to quality healthcare.
• Childcare and Family Support: High costs of quality childcare.
• Quality of Life: Fewer opportunities for enriching experiences.

Balancing Act
Balancing work with cultural and family responsibilities can lead to stress and burnout.

Facing Discrimination
Racism and discrimination, both overt and subtle, are common, leading to feelings of isolation and hindering professional growth (Davids.House.Gov).

Understanding the challenges that Native women face in the workplace is the first step toward addressing and overcoming these barriers. In our next article, we will delve into practical solutions and strategies that businesses can implement to support Native women and offer tips for Native women to thrive in our careers. Stay tuned for part two, where we will continue this important conversation.

Join the Movement

If you’re a Native woman looking for support and resources, join the waitlist for Native Women: RISE. Together, we can create pathways for your success.