Black employees are increasingly opting for remote work options, even if it means taking a pay cut, to avoid the racism they face in physical job locations, according to a report from the LA Times.
LeRon Barton, a former network engineer at a San Francisco hospital, chose to take a $5000 pay cut in order to continue working remotely. The LA Times cited a "reprieve from racism" as the reason behind his decision, stating that working remotely during the pandemic provided him with a different lifestyle, free from microaggressions and racist behavior.
This sentiment to stay out of the office is shared by other black workers who have transitioned to remote work. The LA Times suggests that this shift is driven by a desire to prioritize mental health over enduring a hostile work environment. Barton expressed his willingness to trade networking opportunities and office socializing for peace of mind.
A 2021 study revealed that only 3 percent of black white-collar workers wanted to return to in-office work full-time, compared to 21 percent of white workers in similar fields. The study also highlighted that black employees experience stress associated with working in predominantly white workplaces, leading to a lower sense of belonging.
A 35-year-old paralegal in the Midwest, who preferred to remain anonymous, explained that remote work is better for them as a black employee and someone who is neurodivergent. They find that they are more productive and can focus better in their own space, where they can be themselves and think freely.
The study and the LA Times also suggest that remote work eliminates the need for "code-switching," or adjusting behavior based on the environment. Not having to code-switch allows employees to feel more comfortable and authentic at work.
Andrew McCaskill, a career expert with LinkedIn, emphasized the positive impact of remote work on mental health and authenticity in the workplace. He stated that professionals who have the opportunity to work remotely without experiencing micro-aggressions or the need for code-switching have found it beneficial for their mental well-being and authenticity. Many employees and workers are reluctant to give up these advantages.
The LA Times warns that eliminating remote work options post-pandemic could hinder companies' ability to recruit a diverse workforce. McCaskill asserts that companies must recognize that remote work is one of the most effective ways to fulfill their commitments to diversity and inclusion.
Login