Frozen Job Market, Forgotten Students: Why Men of Color Need Community Colleges Now
Preview:
The U.S. job market may not be as strong as you think, and for many, especially male students of color, the reality is far more troubling.
While U.S. non-farm payroll actuals increased by 147,000 jobs, exceeding economist predictions, and the unemployment rate fell by 0.1%, a growing belief among many is that the labor market is losing momentum. This loss in momentum is driven by various market uncertainties, including, but not limited to, tariffs and geopolitical realities. This volatility creates what is known as a frozen job market, which can be disastrous for first-generation and diverse learner communities seeking upward economic mobility. Primarily because, during these times, businesses and industries enter a preservation mode that can either cause those currently employed to remain in place to outlast the uncertainty, lead to reductions in the workforce, and slow hiring altogether.
Originally published: July 29, 2025
Author: Mordecai Ian Brownlee
Position: President
Institution: Community College of Aurora
Published by: Diverse Issues in Higher Education