Here Are Three Systemic Issues That Keep Black Women Out Of Board Rooms

Black women have been systemically left out of the C-suite and corporate boards of Fortune 500 companies, according to a new report. Despite strides to diversify the boardroom, covered in Black Women On Boards’ (BWOB) new documentary, three key obstacles still remain that keep Black women out.

Forbes highlight the triumph of Patricia Roberts Harris, whose story is highlighted in BWOB’s “OnBoard: Story of Black Women on Boards.” Even as the feature celebrates the accomplishments of women such as Harris who have made on corporate boards, they also acknowledge the challenges burdening more from reaching new heights in their professional careers. The publication noted outside factors that still stunt Black women from obtaining this role.

Childcare remains a burden for Black women to climb up the corporate ladder. Almost half of Black mothers are raising their children as single parents, thus taking on greater hardship and expenses for their families. By having to dedicate more time to their children’s needs as opposed to two-parent households, Black women are less able to pursue more significant roles at the office.

Gigi Schweikert of Lightbridge, whose study revealed that almost a quarter of working mothers lack partners in the home to help with daily responsibilities, expressed her belief that quality childcare is integral to advancing this demographic in the workforce.

“It’s important that all working families, especially Black working mothers and other women of color, have access to quality child care while pursuing their careers,” stated the CEO. “Oftentimes, company decision makers are seasoned executives who aren’t directly affected by the early child care needs their employees face, so it’s up to all of us to speak up, advocate for our needs, and communicate the challenges we’re facing. 

The “broken rung” is another factor, as missed promotions lead to their lack of consideration for board positions. Especially during tough job markets, Black women are relatively ignored for scare promotion opportunities, often being forced to transition to new professions to gain more leadership roles.

Kimberly Bryant of Black Girls CODE argued that their continued marginalization within the workplace leads to their notable absence in board rooms.

“This oversight not only diminishes the individual’s contributions but also perpetuates a cycle of underrepresentation and undervaluation that hinders the career progression of Black working mothers,” stated Bryant.

Travel was also listed as a detrimental factor, as travel requirements for board positions often incur outside costs. With pay gaps and lack of childcare support, professional women are unable to afford or commit to these opportunities. As Black women continue to make 63 cents for every dollar white men earn, they are being squeezed out of leadership roles that they are equally, if not more, qualified for.

Black women are raising awareness of factors that limit their career potential while honoring those who are paving the way for their seat at the table. In the meantime, addressing and further dismantling these obstacles is crucial for Black women to ever earn a spot on corporate boards.

RELATED CONTENT: Want More BIPOC Women On Corporate Boards? Start In Middle School