Harris’ Jobs Remarks Lack Context – FactCheck.org

Job Creation and Black Unemployment Rate: A Fact Check

In a recent meeting with the National Association of Black Journalists, Vice President Kamala Harris made claims about job creation and the Black unemployment rate. It is important to examine these claims in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the overall economic landscape.

Black Unemployment Rate

Harris stated that the United States currently has the lowest Black unemployment rate in generations. While it is true that the rate reached its lowest point in April 2023 at 4.8%, the most recent data from August show that the rate has returned to its pre-pandemic level of 6.1%. This is the same rate as it was in February 2020, during the Trump administration. It is important to note that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on unemployment rates for all Americans, with the Black unemployment rate reaching a high of 16.9% in April 2020. When Trump left office, the rate had improved but remained high at 9.3%. Prior to the pandemic, Black unemployment had reached a record low of 5.3% under Trump in August and September 2019.

Job Creation

Harris claimed that over 16 million new jobs and over 800,000 new manufacturing jobs have been created. While these numbers are close to accurate at the moment, it is important to consider that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recently announced a preliminary estimate of its annual revision of jobs data. This estimate suggests that the number of jobs created over the 12 months ending in March may be 818,000 lower than previously reported, including 115,000 fewer manufacturing jobs. The final revision will be announced in February. If these revisions are accurate, the current total under the Biden administration would be around 15 million total jobs and approximately 600,000 manufacturing jobs.

Context and SDGs

It is crucial to consider the broader context and the SDGs when evaluating job creation and unemployment rates. While the immediate and lingering effects of the pandemic have had a significant impact on the economy, it is worth noting that the average monthly unemployment rates during both the Trump and Biden administrations were below the historical average dating back to 1972. This suggests that efforts have been made to address unemployment and promote economic stability. However, there is still work to be done to ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth, as outlined in SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 1: No Poverty

   • Target 1.1: By 2030, eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere, currently measured as people living on less than $1.25 a day.
   • Indicator 1.1.1: Proportion of population below the international poverty line, by sex, age, employment status, and geographical location (urban/rural).

2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
   • Indicator 8.5.1: Average hourly earnings of female and male employees, by occupation, age, and persons with disabilities.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.4: Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage, and social protection policies, and progressively achieve greater equality.
   • Indicator 10.4.1: Labour share of GDP, comprising wages and social protection transfers.

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

• Target 1.1: Eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere.
• Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all.
• Target 10.4: Adopt policies to achieve greater equality.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator 1.1.1: Proportion of population below the international poverty line.
• Indicator 8.5.1: Average hourly earnings of female and male employees.
• Indicator 10.4.1: Labour share of GDP.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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