The number of women participating in the workforce is at its lowest point in 30 years, influenced by child care needs, fears of health risks associated with returning to the office, and shifting attitudes toward work-life balance. According to a recent Gallup poll, 3.1% fewer women are in the workforce than before the pandemic compared to 2.2% fewer men.
The impact of women leaving the workforce is especially burdensome on families of color. And economists worry the absence of women could significantly hurt the broader U.S. economy.
