Indeed survey finds 54% of Black employees have experienced discrimination at work

While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 made it illegal to discriminate on the basis of “race, color, religion, sex, or national origin,” studies show that Black talent still experiences inequities and discrimination on the job, almost 50 years later.

According to the findings of a recent Indeed survey of 615 Black workers in the US, many are looking to leave their current roles, despite the positive impact some say DE&I efforts have had on their workplaces.

Employee concerns. Some 49% of Black employees reported they’re considering or actively looking for a new role. The majority (55%) don’t feel they’re compensated fairly, while 48% don’t see advancement opportunities.

Misty Gaither, VP of global diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at Indeed, told HR Brew that HR leaders need to think about pay transparency through a wide lens. “Look at policies and processes, because that’s where systemic bias and barriers persist, and then look at programmatic efforts, and then partnerships—and in that order—because that’s how you can really affect change long term.”

The survey also found that 54% of respondents experienced discrimination at work, with just over one in five reporting microaggressions as a reason they’re looking for a new job.

“[Microaggressions] are a real thing that can cause harm,” Gaither explained. “And while microaggressions may not rise to the level of a coaching plan, it’s looking at how you develop your internal policies where they can be more progressive.” She said that HR should share examples of microaggressions with employees and even leverage pop culture references (she suggested Netflix’s You People) to make them more tangible.

Gaither said that it’s the responsibility of HR, and every leader, to reduce and eliminate workplace discrimination, and recommended providing employees with continuous education through various forums, including online bias training, listening sessions with people with lived experiences, and panel discussions.
Progress. While employers still have work to do, 76% of respondents reported feeling a sense of belonging at work, and 72% said their organization prioritizes diversity and inclusion initiatives. Gaither said these numbers signal that diversity efforts are making a difference, despite criticism of DE&I investments.

“I’m hopeful that we’ve reached a point in the US where this work is actually being amplified and it’s finally being seen as integral to business operations, and not just adjacent to the business or something that is just fun to do,” she said.—KP