Accelerate January 2021 Magazine

WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG The Milwaukee Urban League (MUL) understands that economic vibrancy for our metro area relies on all citizens being employed and financially self-sufficient. Since 1919, MUL has remained steadfast in its commitment to improving the quality of life for African Americans that lead to economic and educational advancement. Last year the organization celebrated its centennial, and although there is much to celebrate, MUL recognizes that there is still much work to be done. MUL remains deeply concerned about the fact that Milwaukee’s black community is so impoverished. While there are African Americans in good-paying jobs and careers or in successful entrepreneurial ventures in Milwaukee and surrounding counties, too many remain on the outside struggling to move ahead. Three factors critical to economic advancement and navigating today’s environment are wages, transportation and homeownership; three areas in which Wisconsin’s black communities continue to lag far behind. According to recent data from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Center for Economic Development, only 17.4 percent of black males earn over $40,000 compared to 46.3 percent of white males earning over this amount. For females, 14.6 percent of black women earn over $40,000 compared to 29.1 percent for white women. When COVID-19 hit, black communities were devastated given that approximately 39 percent of $40,000 or less household incomes in general across the country lost work according to a Federal Reserve survey. In addition to wage gaps, transportation also serves as a barrier to employment options for the black community. Serving on the Regional Transit Leadership Council, our work revolves around improving access to jobs within and outside the city. More than 19 percent of city households lack access to a car and at least 25 percent in various zip codes or sections of the city are lacking a car, making connectivity a problem. Job growth is more accelerated in Waukesha County, where available jobs are not easily accessible via public transportation. MUL’s employment staff often have qualified individuals ready to fill those jobs, but they lack transportation. Declining home ownership rates impact the number of black individuals and families who can effectively manage their environments for safe health, successful remote learning and working, and asset building. The Center for Economic Development reported Milwaukee being the second- lowest in black homeownership among the largest metropolitan areas at 27 percent. The rate indicates three DR. EVE M. HALL President & CEO, Milwaukee Urban League SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES FOR COLLABORATION 6