By Priska Neely, Journalist, trainer and media leader
As I watch the unemployment rate for Black workers continue to climb, I find myself thinking of another systemic issue that disproportionately affects Black women. As a reporter in L.A. years ago, I reported on Black infant mortality and maternal health for years. Even though the disparities have persisted for decades, I talked to so many women, including my own sisters, who had no idea that their personal pain was part of a larger trend. They privately carried shame and guilt.
Last November, economists estimated that at least 600,000 Black women had been economically sidelined since the start of 2025. When you’re one out of that many, it’s clear you’re not alone. But being unemployed or pushed out of work is still a soul-sucking experience that’s hard to talk about. And being seen still makes a difference.
I think that’s part of the reason why And Counting, a short documentary by journalist and director Sidney Madden, is making such a splash. It features four women, from different generations and various industries, who share their experiences being laid off or pushed out of their jobs in 2025. The comments on the recently released trailer are full Black women saying “me too” and expressing gratitude for feeling seen.
I talked with Sidney about what she hopes Black women in the trenches of un- or under-employment will remember:
You should talk about it.
“It’s not something to be ashamed of or a topic to shy away from,” Sidney said.
Sure, it’s not the LinkedIn post anyone dreams of, but it is one you should be vulnerable and make. Remind people what you’ve done and what kind of opportunities you’re looking for. You never know who will see it.
Community is key
“The number one thing that is working and allowing Black women to get back to jobs in the workforce, or if they want to continue education, is really relying on each other.”
It can be uncomfortable to talk about, but let people in your circles, your sororities, your groups chats know. (Don’t underestimate the power of the group chat; a friend of mine just got a job that way.)
Not sure how to tap in? See last week’s newsletter about how to ask for help.
Remember your worth and be open to possibilities.
“Under capitalism, part of the cool-aid that we sip is that our jobs are tied to our worth as human beings,” Sidney said. “Don’t tie your self worth to having this job or not having this job.”
Is this the chance for an “aha!” moment? In the wake of layoffs, some of the women in her documentary started exploring different parts of themselves. One went back to school for her M.B.A., another started taking more creative writing classes. Perhaps it’s an opportunity to rest.
It’s obviously way easier to see in hindsight, but I am now thankful for the two layoffs I experienced early in my career. The experiences led me to opportunities I never would have sought out otherwise. And if you have to take a next step you’re not completely jazzed about, that doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck there forever.
And Counting is an independent documentary short that premiered September 17 at BRIC Media Arts Documentary Intensive cohort screening. Sidney is fundraising to expand the project. If you’re in LA, there’s a screening on October 8 at BLACKWEEK’s mini film festival.
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