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The Latina Economic Paradox: Breaking Barriers While Facing Persistent Challenges
LatinosBuild
October 08, 2024
By Mónica Talán
Latinas are making strong strides in the U.S. economy, driving growth and breaking barriers across industries. Yet, despite these achievements, we still face significant hurdles, particularly when it comes to fair wages and equal pay. While our contributions are reshaping the economic landscape, the wage gap and structural inequities continue to highlight a stark contrast between success and systemic challenges.
Breaking Barriers: A Rising Economic Force
Latinas have emerged as an unstoppable economic powerhouse:
Contributing $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2021 - surpassing Florida's entire economy
Increasing economic output by 51.1% over the past decade
Achieving a 103% growth in bachelor's degree attainment between 2010 and 2021
Boosting labor force participation by 7.5 percentage points, reaching 60.5%
Accounting for 30.2% of labor force growth despite being just 9.3% of the population
Persistent Challenges: The Wage Gap Reality
Despite these achievements, Latinas face significant economic disparities:
Earning just 58 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men
Losing nearly $1.3 million over a 40-year career due to wage gaps
Experiencing monthly wage losses of $2,672 compared to white, non-Hispanic male counterparts
Requiring work until age 89 to match what white, non-Hispanic men earn by age 60
Facing even wider gaps for part-time workers at 51 cents on the dollar
The current economic landscape for Latinas presents a complex picture of progress and persistent challenges. While Latinas are undeniably driving economic growth and breaking educational barriers, systemic wage inequities remain deeply entrenched, creating a stark contrast between their contributions and compensation. The Latina community's resilience and achievements are even more remarkable considering the significant structural obstacles they continue to face. As we celebrate the remarkable economic contributions of Latinas, we must also recognize and address the significant challenges we continue to face in achieving true economic equity.
Latina Builder: Adela Cepeda
Angel and VC investor
Chair, Angeles Investors
Adela Cepeda is a seasoned finance leader with over 40 years of capital markets experience and a proven track record as a champion for inclusive economic growth. We asked her:
What has led you to launch businesses?
I invest in startups now, but a desire to build something new motivated the launch of my businesses.
What advice do you have for anyone launching a business?
Overestimate how long it will take and prepare for that.
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