Race and ethnicity in the United States census

1790a-01-page-001

Pitcher commemorating the first United States census, c. 1790, made in England - National Museum of American History - DSC06150

== Race and Ethnicity in the United States Census ==

The United States Census is a decennial survey conducted by the United States Census Bureau to count the population and collect demographic data. One of the key components of the census is the collection of data on race and ethnicity. This information is used for various purposes, including the enforcement of civil rights laws, the allocation of federal funds, and the redistricting of legislative boundaries.

Historical Background

The collection of race and ethnicity data in the United States Census has evolved significantly since the first census in 1790. Initially, the census categorized individuals into broad racial groups, such as "free white males," "free white females," "all other free persons," and "slaves." Over time, the categories have expanded and become more detailed to reflect the growing diversity of the U.S. population.

Current Categories

As of the 2020 Census, the race and ethnicity categories include:

• Race:

 * White
 * Black or African American
 * American Indian and Alaska Native
 * Asian
 * Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
 * Some Other Race
 * Two or More Races

• Ethnicity:

 * Hispanic or Latino
 * Non-Hispanic or Latino

Methodology

Respondents to the census are asked to self-identify their race and ethnicity. The questions are designed to allow individuals to select one or more races and to indicate whether they are of Hispanic or Latino origin. This approach recognizes the complex and multifaceted nature of racial and ethnic identity in the United States.

Uses of Race and Ethnicity Data

The data collected on race and ethnicity are used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Civil Rights Enforcement: Ensuring compliance with laws such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
• Federal Funding Allocation: Distributing federal funds to states and localities based on population characteristics.
• Redistricting: Redrawing legislative districts to ensure equal representation.

Challenges and Controversies

The collection and classification of race and ethnicity data in the census have been subject to debate and controversy. Issues include the accuracy of self-reported data, the relevance of racial categories, and concerns about privacy and confidentiality.

Related Pages

• United States Census Bureau
• Demographics of the United States
• Civil Rights Act of 1964
• Voting Rights Act of 1965
• 2020 United States Census
• Hispanic and Latino Americans
• Asian Americans
• African Americans
• Native Americans in the United States