Congressional Committee Report Says Hispanic Unemployment Rate Hit Hardest by Recession

A new report released by Congress’ Joint Economic Committee says the unemployment rate since the start of the recession has been especially harsh on Hispanics because they are disproportionately represented in the job sectors that were hit the hardest.

Hispanic workers are more likely to work in the construction industry, specifically in California, Florida, and Nevada, which were hit hard by the recession. From May 2006 to October 2009, the Hispanic unemployment rate almost tripled, jumping from 4.9% to 13.1%.

“Not only were Hispanics a significant part of the industries hardest hit by the recession, but they have also been underrepresented in education and health activities — sectors that have experienced growth during the Great Recession,” said Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney (D-N.Y.), chairwoman of committee.

The report also notes that any gains in the job market previously achieved by Hispanics were lost as a result of the recession.

The report did not distinguish between citizens, legal residents, or illegal aliens, but Audrey Singer, who is a senior fellow for the Brookings Institution, said that “unauthorized Hispanic migrants are the segment most likely to be adversely impacted” by a recession.

For more information, see the Los Angeles Times.