Banging on a Locked Door: The Persistent Role of Racial Discrimination in the Workplace

Abstract

Workplace discrimination continues to limit both the workforce participation and satisfaction of many Americans. Whereas many minority groups experience discrimination in the workplace, African Americans often experience the cumulative effects of multiple forms of discrimination. The levels of discrimination that African Americans face not only impede their ability to gain employment, but also negatively affect their career mobility. From traditional forms of discrimination based on race, gender, age and ability, to new forms of discrimination based on credit scores, appearance, criminal records and employment status, African Americans continue to disproportionately encounter structural barriers that restrict their participation in the workforce.