Team, there’s a crisis going on in America right now — one that far too few are paying attention to.

The unemployment rate among Black Women has now risen for the third month in a row. It’s soared to 7.5% — well above the 4.4% national rate.

Economic experts have made clear that this is a crisis.

Any cracks in the strength of the overall economy always show up for Black workers first – and at a time when all of us are feeling the strain, this is a “canary in the coal mine” for the entire economy.

This crisis has everything to do with the reckless and dangerous policies of the Trump White House — from his mass federal firings to his refusal to bring down healthcare costs.

Look, team: There are nine men named "John" in the Senate right now. There have only been five Black women elected to the Senate — ever.

I’m proud to be one of them. Because representation matters, and our United States Senate should reflect the country it's been elected to serve.

This kind of representation is how we call out unnoticed crises like this one. It’s how resolutions like Black Women's Equal Pay Day get passed. Or how we make sure we advocate for Black maternal healthcare.

We need more women of color in the places where important decisions are being made. But here's the hard truth:

Black women running for office raise 1/3 of the funds that our white counterparts do. That puts us at a major disadvantage as we fight for the representation we need.

I've set a midnight goal of $10,000 to help elect more Black women to office, and I need your help. Can I count on you to make a special contribution today to help power my campaign and ensure all voices are heard in our government?

Thanks for your support,

Lisa Blunt Rochester