Report: More African American women live in poverty in Pittsburgh than most other cities in U.S.

PITTSBURGH — More African American women live in poverty in Pittsburgh than 85% of other cities in the United States, according to a report by Pittsburgh's Gender Equity Commission.

"African Americans in Pittsburgh, when we frequently hear the words describing Pittsburgh as 'A Most Livable City'" react and help can't but ask the question: 'For whom is it most livable?''" said Tim Stevens, the Black Political Empowerment Project chairman and CEO.

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That question is getting some serious thought after a University of Pittsburgh report last month revealed, "A black resident automatically by moving their life expectancy would go up, their income would go up, their educational opportunities for their children would go up as well as their employment."

Stevens read those words from the study during a press conference on Monday.

BPEP is calling on local leaders to create a game plan. Stevens said one such plan has already been outlined and calls for area businesses to consider black candidates for all job openings, accept applications from candidates with criminal histories and take action to diversify the workforce.

The report was done at the request of the Mayor's office.

A spokesman gave Channel 11 the following statement:

"Mayor Peduto thanks Mr. Stevens for his attention to his report, which was issued by the City's Gender Equity Commission. Pittsburgh has already implemented his requests for a Rooney Rule and "ban the box" efforts, and regularly works with the Corporate Equity and Inclusion Roundtable."

There are three more studies to be conducted.

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