In the past year, COVID-19 has fundamentally altered the fabric of American society. Its impact has been particularly pronounced when it comes to women in the workforce, many of who are still struggling to adjust to these unforeseen circumstances.
In December 2019, women held 50% of American jobs (excluding farm workers and the self-employed), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
1
As of December 2020, women aged 20 and over had an overall unemployment rate of 6.3%—nearly twice as high as it was a year prior.
2
Millions of women saw their jobs erased, while others were compelled to leave the workforce as schools and daycare centers closed nationwide. Today, one in four women are considering downshifting their careers or leaving the workforce, as a direct result of these dynamics.