As the federal government shutdown is happening in Washington, the effects are being felt all the way in Georgia, with looming disruptions to the federal government expected to hit the Black community the hardest.
Black Americans are overrepresented in the federal jobforce, making up nearly 20 percent of workers. Federal jobs have historically offered Black Americans protection from private-sector discrimination, equal pay scales, and opportunities for career advancement. Public service opened the door to middle-class stability for many Black families.
Typically non-essential federal workers are furloughed without pay. Essential employees, like air traffic controllers or law enforcement officers, must keep working, but also without pay until Congress reaches a deal.
Councilmembers Carmalitha Gumbs (District 2) and Helen Zenobia Willis (District 3) of the City of South Fulton expressed concern about how the shutdown will impact families across South Fulton and the Metro Atlanta region.
“We are highly concerned about the shutdown that is happening with the government and we want to make sure that our residents are taken care of here in the City of South Fulton,” said Councilmember Gumbs. “We are looking at ways that the city can come in, step in, and fill in the gaps. That’s what we’re looking at, and we will continue to support our residents through this troubled time. It will impact all of us.”
“I am disappointed that we are here. We have families that need to pay rent, they need to buy groceries, they need to buy medication,” said Councilmember Willis. “I hope that the shutdown will not last long and I’m praying for all who have been impacted.”Both councilmembers pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely and to advocate for resources that support South Fulton residents during periods of federal instability.
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