The SHEconomy: Examining the Economic Consequences of Inequality

The end of tax season brings up discussions about economic inequalities, particularly for women and people of color. Married women are found to be richer than their single counterparts, highlighting the disparities in access to the economy. To address these issues, Danielle Shoots and Councilwoman Shontel Lewis recently led a discussion at CU Denver’s Empowering Women in Business course.

During the discussion, Shoots and Lewis delved into the root causes of economic inequalities, pointing out how historical factors like slavery have contributed to the current disparities. They also discussed the failings of the healthcare system, emphasizing the need for government intervention to negotiate with private health insurance companies to lower medical costs.

Despite the challenges, both Shoots and Lewis remain optimistic about potential solutions. Lewis advocates for government programs like social housing to rebuild the economy, while Shoots emphasizes the importance of companies investing in their employees through services like free daycare and mental health support.

Shoots also suggests bringing labor back domestically to strengthen the economy and reduce reliance on cheap overseas labor. Both speakers agree that transparency and accountability are crucial for both the government and private industry to address these issues effectively.

As the discussion concluded, Shoots emphasized the need for change to avoid system failure, while Lewis highlighted the incoming generation of Gen Z, known for their diversity and readiness to make necessary changes for a sustainable future. The call for reform and inclusivity in the economy is clear, with a focus on creating a more equitable and sustainable financial system for all.