Equity & Inclusion
Closing racial and ethnic disparities in employment outcomes is not just a matter of fairness -- it is essential for the economic future of our region.
Decades of inequitable civic, housing, and workforce policies have created systemic barriers for African American and immigrant job seekers. Today, even when education levels are similar, Black workers and New American workers are still more likely to experience underemployment, meaning too much local talent is being overlooked or underutilized. These disparities result in wage gaps, occupational segregation, and an economy that is leaving potential growth on the table.
Disparities at a Glance
New Americans already make up one in ten people in Louisville and are a vital part of our workforce. They often work at lower wages despite diverse education and experience and a strong track record of retention. At the same time, Black workers remain underrepresented in many of the region’s higher-wage, in-demand occupations. Addressing these gaps is a strategic opportunity to strengthen businesses, fill talent shortages, and boost household income across the region.
The region misses out on growth when marginalized workers don’t have access to good wages
As workers in and around Louisville become more racially and ethnically diverse, building a fully prepared and engaged workforce that meets the needs of employers requires intentional action. Our region’s economic potential depends on ensuring that every qualified worker can fully contribute their skills and talent.
There is tremendous opportunity in advancing racial equity both for individual job seekers and for employers facing critical talent shortages. KentuckianaWorks works to ensure that all talented individuals, especially those in historically excluded populations, have clear pathways to opportunity. Employers who broaden their talent pipelines and invest in job quality will be better positioned to thrive in our region’s dynamic economy. We invite local businesses to partner with KentuckianaWorks through our career centers and job quality initiatives to tap into the full diversity of our regional talent and build a competitive workforce for the future.
Generation Work
Supporting area youth-serving organizations and employers to be more responsive to the needs of young adults of color by prioritizing worker voice, positive youth development and racial equity principles.
Initiative active until December 2025
Disparity addressed: Black workers are overrepresented in low-wage roles.
Local Partners: Goodwill Industries of Kentucky, Metro United Way, Blueprint 502 (formerly known as YouthBuild Louisville). Employer partners have included Norton Healthcare, Republic Bank, Kentucky Kingdom, Belle of Louisville, Goodwill, and UPS.
Upskilling Refugee Workers
Our refugee employer engagement program (REEP) is designed to help empower refugees and better integrate them into their workplaces at partner organizations.
Initiative active through September 2026
Disparity addressed: Inequitable access to good jobs
Local Partner: Jewish Family & Career Services
Research & News
Helpful Resources
Want to tell us something?
KentuckianaWorks recognizes that there are many more aspects of inclusion than race alone. Each of the workforce readiness programs we fund strive to provide equal and just access to job seekers.
Has that been your experience with the local workforce system? We would like to hear your feedback, positive or negative, so we can address concerns and make improvements.
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