With February being Black History Month and the total racial and ethnic minority population projected to increase from 30.9 percent in 2000 to 40.4 percent in 2019, the social network website WalletHub recently conducted an in-depth analysis of 2015’s Cities with the Most & Least Ethno-Racial & Linguistic Diversity.
Given such a forecast, it’s ever more imperative to close the racial gaps across U.S. cities to ensure economic prosperity. The website examined 350 of the most populated U.S. cities across three key metrics, including racial and ethnic diversity, language diversity, and region of birth diversity.
Key statistics
The racial and ethnic diversity is four times higher in Vallejo, Calif., than in East Los Angeles, Calif.
East Los Angeles, Calif., has the highest concentration of Hispanics or Latinos, at 97.5 percent.
Livonia, Mich., has the highest concentration of whites, at 89.3 percent.
Detroit has the highest concentration of blacks, at 80.7 percent.
Hialeah, Fla., has the highest concentration of Spanish speakers, at 90.6 percent.
Westminster, Calif., has the highest concentration of Asian- and Pacific Islander-language speakers, at 44.4 percent.
New Bedford, Mass., has the highest European-born population, at 11.4% percent.
Glendale, Calif., has the highest Asian-born population, at 43.3 percent.
So where does Seattle figure in the list?
Overall, we are 203. Racial and ethnic diversity rank is 234; language diversity is 175; and region of birth diversity is 148.
Yep, all totals compiled we are 203 on the list. We fall behind Jacksonville, FL, Amarillo TX, and Salt Lake City, UT.
And what can we actually do about the issue?
First, we should welcome and be inviting to all individuals. We should be more than tech-friendly. Yes, tech is great and is a large part of our community, but we should acknowledge more.
All levels in all fields should be received and respected and be given a warm welcome, whether it is retail, the food industry, entrepreneurial . The city should be positioned as a host for all. Mayor Ed Murray recently hired an executive assistant, a person of color, a strong statement for our city’s position on diversity and leading a good example. Of course, he can do more.
Another great example is our school system’s excellent language programs. Check out our amazing Diversity scholarship nominees (page 5). The University of Washington also houses the Jackson School of International Studies, which contributes to diversity and education.
What else can we do to contribute? Perhaps there should be emphasis and resources on housing options and opportunities for those unfamiliar with the city. We should welcome everyone and secure our region as a new home.
Seattle has plenty of potential to move to the top of the list. (end)