Why Black American Women Didn’t Benefit From Trump’s Tax Cuts

In early 2018, I sat at my kitchen table, grappling with the implications of the 2017 Trump tax law on families similar to mine. Despite bold headlines touting "middle-class tax relief," the reality during tax season was stark; my refund dwindled, key deductions vanished, and the calculations betrayed me. It became evident that the tax cuts were not envisioned with individuals like myself in mind.As Congress deliberates further GOP tax cuts benefiting the affluent, history threatens to repeat itself, undermining the financial stability of countless working Americans, particularly Black women. Lawmakers should adopt the "Black Women Best" framework articulated by Janelle Jones, acknowledging that when Black women flourish, the economy truly thrives.The 2017 law's Child Tax Credit (CTC) enhancement provided minimal assistance to marginalized families. Despite recent temporary boosts, crucial restrictions remain, leaving millions, particularly the lowest-income children, without support. It's imperative that future tax policies prioritize equitable outcomes for all, ensuring that when Black women succeed, society benefits as a whole.