A report released Friday provides shocking statistics on Chicago’s unemployment rate. A Frayed Connection: Joblessness Among Teens in Chicago gathered data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Current Population Survey and the American Community Service to provide an accurate analysis. The study will be released at the Chicago Urban League Youth Employment: A Smart Investment Youth Hearing. Chicago’s soaring jobless rate especially affects low-income black and Hispanic teens.
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Teens and young adults that are out of school are currently facing a bleak job market. In 2012-2013, a stunning 91% of Chicago black male teens were unemployed. In addition to earning less money, black male teens in Chicago experience a higher percentage of poverty. Jobless youth are at a much higher risk of developing health problems and behavioral issues. The purpose of the meeting is to raise awareness in Chicago; to urge the use of investments that will create meaningful labor in the near future; and to provide financial benefits to the youth down the road.
Panelists scheduled to appear at the youth hearing include Illinois State Senators Mattie Hunter, Emil Jones III, Heather Steans, and Donne Trotter. Along with Illinois State Representatives Monique Davis, Will Davis, Marcus Evans Jr., La Shawn Ford, Elizabeth Hernadez, Thaddeus Jones, and Rita Mayfield. Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services Commissioner Evelyn Diaz is also expected to attend. Members from the Chicago Board of Education, including its Vice President Jesse Ruiz and President and CEO Andrea Zopp, are to be present at the event. In addition to the above guests, City of Chicago Alderman Jason Ervin, Emma Mitts, Harry Osterman, Latasha Thomas, and Karen Chavers, Paul Harrington, and Jack Quest are expected to attend. The discussion is taking place Friday, Jan. 30, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. EST at the Chicago Urban League.
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