John Mercer Langston Institute
The Economic State of Black Men and Boys in the United States
This report measures the economic realities of Black men and boys so that institutions, policymakers, educators, business leaders, and communities can respond with purpose.
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About the Report
The Economic State of Black Men and Boys in the United States is the inaugural Annual Research Report published by the John Mercer Langston Institute for African American Political Leadership at Virginia State University.
Using publicly available federal data, the report examines the economic well-being of Black men and boys across the United States through the lenses of employment, education, earnings, wealth, entrepreneurship, housing, and economic mobility.
More than a collection of statistics, this report provides a comprehensive assessment of the opportunities, barriers, and trends shaping the lives of Black men and boys today. It is designed to inform policy, strengthen institutions, guide community leaders, and inspire action rooted in evidence rather than assumption.
The Economic State of Black Men and Boys in the United States will be published annually by the John Mercer Langston Institute to track progress, identify emerging challenges, and provide data-driven recommendations for strengthening economic opportunity and outcomes for Black men and boys across the nation.
Why This Report Matters
For generations, conversations about race and economic inequality have often overlooked the unique experiences of Black men and boys. While many national reports examine disparities across broad demographic groups, few focus specifically on the economic conditions affecting Black males throughout their lives. This report fills that gap. By bringing together data from multiple federal agencies into one comprehensive publication, the John Mercer Langston Institute seeks to provide researchers, policymakers, educators, business leaders, and community organizations with reliable information that can drive informed decision-making and measurable change. Our hope is that this report becomes more than a publication—it becomes a resource that shapes conversations, influences policy, and helps improve outcomes for future generations.
Key Findings
Suggested introduction:
The report identifies several significant trends affecting Black men and boys across the United States. Among the findings are:
- A significant long-term decline in Black male employment.
- Continued decreases in Black male college enrollment.
- Persistent earnings disparities.
- Lower rates of homeownership and wealth accumulation.
- Continued barriers to economic mobility.
- The need for intentional public policy, institutional investment, and community-based solutions.
Download the 2026 Annual Research Report
About the John Mercer Langston Institute
The John Mercer Langston Institute for African American Political Leadership at Virginia State University prepares current and future leaders through research, civic engagement, leadership development, and public policy.
The Institute exists to produce scholarship that matters, cultivate leaders who serve, and develop practical solutions to challenges facing Black communities across the Commonwealth of Virginia and throughout the nation.
Citation
Bellamy, W. (2026). The Economic State of Black Men and Boys in the United States. John Mercer Langston Institute for African American Political Leadership, Virginia State University.
Stay Connected
To learn more about the John Mercer Langston Institute, request a presentation, collaborate on future research, or explore additional publications, please contact us or visit the Institute’s homepage.
