Black workers are much more likely than their white counterparts to continue working despite being sick, due to lack of paid sick leave and fear of job loss, according to research conducted by the Economic Policy Institute.
According to the study, 55% of Black workers in low-wage positions reported working while ill, compared to just 39% of white workers in similar roles. This disparity is largely attributed to the fact that Black workers are overrepresented in industries such as food service, retail, and healthcare, where paid sick leave is often not provided.
Elise Gould, a senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute and co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue. “No one should have to choose between their health and their livelihood,” Gould stated. “These findings underscore the urgent need for policies that ensure all workers have access to paid sick leave, regardless of their race or occupation.”
The study also highlights the potential public health consequences of this disparity, as workers who continue to work while sick may contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. The authors call for immediate action from policymakers and employers to address this critical issue and promote equitable access to paid sick leave for all workers.
See “In Low-Wage Jobs, Working While Black Means Showing Up Sick” (May 28, 2024)
