REPORT: Black Women Working in Washington’s Public Sector Share Experiences, Recommendations for Change
June 29, 2026
OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Women’s Commission (WSWC) released a new report examining the experiences of Black women in Washington’s public sector. Drawing on a statewide survey and community feedback, the report highlights persistent workplace barriers and provides recommendations and practical tools to identify, address, and prevent workplace harms and inequities.
The public sector has long been an important source of employment for Black women. However, disproportionate job losses for Black women in 2025 and reports of workplace mistreatment prompted the Commission to examine these experiences more closely.
Find the initiative overview at wswc.wa.gov.
Statewide Survey
WSWC partnered with state business resource group Blacks United in Leadership & Diversity (BUILD) to survey Black women across Washington’s public sector. The findings point to persistent day-to-day harms and systemic barriers affecting retention, well-being, and advancement.
Among the 410 survey respondents, 88% experienced microaggressions, including tone policing or questioning competency, and 75% reported impacts on their mental health.
Notably, 67% reported or considered reporting concerns to Human Resources. However, those who did engage with HR rated the support they received a 1.92 out of 5. These findings informed recommendations for improving workplace inclusion and equity, including:
- Establishing consistent complaint processes across all agencies
- Increasing transparency around employees’ rights and workplace processes
- Strengthening performance evaluation practices
- Investing in sponsorship and leadership development
Cocreating Solutions
Beyond the report, the Commission partnered directly with survey respondents, gathered additional feedback from Black women through an in-person event, and consulted with state agency staff to develop tools that directly address the patterns highlighted by respondents.
- For employers: Workplace Safety Reflection Guide
- For employees: Navigating your Workplace Guide
The resources will be shared with state agency leaders, the Governor’s Office, and public-sector employees. They are publicly available and may be adapted by employers, organizations, and workplaces seeking to create more inclusive work environments.
Read the full report: Black Women in the Public Sector: Experiences, Impacts, and Opportunities for Change.