According to a recent census report, only 24% of women in the workforce make their living in STEM careers.

That number is astounding. But if you’re looking for your jaw to hit the floor, stir racial demographics into the scenario.

When it comes to economic sustainability, STEM fields open the pathway. The more advanced degree is, the higher income it generates. So why are we relegating black and brown girls to lesser paying careers?

In 2012, white women earned 6,777 PhDs in STEM fields. On the other hand, white men earned 8,478 PhD degrees. For African American women, that number dwindles to 684—10 times fewer scientific doctorates than their white counterparts. With only 3.5% of STEM bachelor degrees, Latina women face an even larger obstacle.

STEM fields show an absence of women in color, which leaves us with two questions that need to be answered.

Why are black and brown girls underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and math?
What can we do to bridge this inequity?
Why Women of Color Are Missing in STEM

The short answer: the problem starts in childhood. We need to encourage girls NOW so that they grow into smart, capable, and driven women who take their rightful place in the world of science, technology, engineering, and math.
The science of color: black and brown girls in STEM (to read full article) http://girlspursuingscience.com/black-and-brown-girls-in-stem/