The State Of Black Los Angeles

A new report examines the state of Black Los Angeles, and finds that Black equality trails all other ethnic groups in Los Angeles.

1 minute read

July 25, 2005, 1:00 PM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


United Way of Greater Los Angeles and the Urban League of Los Angles today released an extensive, 100-page study detailing 'The State of Black Los Angeles.' The findings indicate striking disparities in conditions for Blacks in Los Angeles compared to othermajor ethnic groups. Among the four major ethnic groups in Los Angeles--Blacks, Asians, Latinos and Whites—Blacks had the lowest Equality Index score (69 for Blacks, versus 98 forAsians, 71 for Latinos and 100 for Whites), determined by a compilation of data on economics, housing, health, education, criminal justice and civic engagement.

Among the findings:

  • Blacks have the highest rate of homelessness, and are estimated to be 30% or more of the county's homeless population
  • Blacks have the lowest median household income at $31,905 compared to Latinos at $33,820 and whites at $53,978
  • 47% of Black adults attended college, but only 18% actually complete a bachelor’sdegree or higher, compared to 43% of Asians, 38% of Whites and 7% of Latinos whohave college degrees
  • Blacks rate highest of all groups in civic engagement, including citizenship, voting,military service and union membership

    Modeled after the National Urban League’s 'State of Black America' report, the study provides a snapshot of African Americans in Los Angeles, one of the nation's largestBlack metropolitan areas.
  • Thanks to Frank O'Brien

    Sunday, July 24, 2005 in United Way, Los Angeles

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