Honoring Heritage, Advancing Equity: Building a Workforce for All
This November, join us in recognizing Native American Heritage Month—a time to celebrate the rich cultures, invaluable contributions, and ongoing impact of Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. While these communities have played a pivotal role in shaping our nation, they continue to face systemic challenges that affect job quality, economic mobility, and representation in the workforce.
Photo courtesy of Dulcey Lima/unsplash
Did you know that according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2019 and 2021, only 28% of American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIANs) held higher-wage management and professional roles, compared to 42% of the overall population? And that nearly half of AIAN full-time workers earned less than $750 per week.
These disparities are stark reminders of the historical and ongoing barriers that impact economic opportunity and job security for Indigenous peoples.
At ReWork the Bay, we believe in tackling these challenges head-on. By centering the voices and leadership of those most affected, we strive to create a workforce system that champions economic justice and supports all workers. We align with efforts such as the Division of Indian and Native American Programs (DNAP), which promotes culturally attuned employment and training services, and the impactful work of the Council for Tribal Employment Rights, a community-based American Indian-owned and operated non-profit organization. They are a nationally recognized leader in employment rights advocacy for Indian Country.
Driven by our commitment to economic equity, ReWork the Bay centers the voices and experiences of those systematically excluded from it. Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities have long faced these barriers, which aligns with our commitment to creating pathways for all workers to thrive. Through initiatives like the Building Worker Power, the Learning Labs, and the Job Quality Project, we’re actively transforming the workforce landscape by empowering workers to advocate for fair wages, job security, and safe working conditions.
This month, we invite you to join us in honoring Native American Heritage Month by supporting the work that drives economic justice forward. Whether you’re an employer, funder, or community partner, you have a role to play. Discover how you can make an impact—visit our Get Involved page and join us in advancing this vital mission.
In Solidarity,
Brianna, Janelle, + Rob
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