MN Reports on Racial Disparity

Abstracts of reports completed by other MN organizations

I. CRIMINAL JUSTICE:

African American Men Project

Crossroads: Choosing a New Direction, Research Compendium (2002)

In a massive survey of all issues facing African American men, this compendium describes disparities relating to employment, education, health, family, housing, and criminal justice. The report examines existing social services and programs that have been successful at empowering African American men. Recommendations include: to create an advisory board on challenges facing African American men; to provide training and employment opportunities; to support ad strengthen efforts to keep African American boys in school; to develop policy to ensure that African American men have access to healthcare; to reduce the disproportionate involvement of minorities with the criminal justice system; and to develop initiatives to involve African American men in their communities. There is an accompanying final report.

Subsections from the Research Compendium (2002)

Recidivism Among Men in Hennepin County

Office of Planning and Development
Nancy Skilling, Community Corrections

Recidivism rates for young male offenders differ between African Americans and Whites in Hennepin County. Young African American males ages 18-30 are more likely to be convicted with felony charges than White males. Re-conviction rates are also higher for young African American men for both property crimes and violent crimes.

Restorative Justice and African American Men

Office of Planning and Development

Restorative justice programs are an alternative to court involvement for some crimes. Several variations of restorative justice programs exist in Hennepin County. Studies have found that such programs can be a deterrent to future criminal activity, though conclusive evidence has not been proven.

Hennepin County

Community Health Services Fact Sheet: Illegal Drug Use (2003)

Hennepin County created this fact sheet to address use of illegal drugs. The fact sheet noted racial disparities in illegal drug use nationally and in admissions to treatment statewide. Nationwide, illegal drug use rates were highest for multiracial (13%), followed by American Indians (10%), African Americans and Whites (7%), Hispanics (6%), and Asians (3%). Admissions to chemical dependency treatment were 45% African Americans, 44% Whites, 4% American Indians, and 4% Hispanics. A statewide survey found that most treatment admissions for racial groups other than African American were for alcohol use, whereas most treatment admissions for Africans Americans were for illegal drug use. Contributing factors include heredity, depression, peer groups, parents, and communities. There are several resources available in Hennepin County to address illegal drug use.

Downtown Minneapolis Safe Zone Collaborative Final Report (2005)

Hennepin County commissioned the Safe Zone Collaborative to address real and perceived public safety issues in downtown Minneapolis. The police department increased foot patrols, trained security officers, improved information sharing, and coordinated the prosecution of chronic offenders in the area. Part 1 crimes occurred less in the Safe Zone than in other areas of Minneapolis. It was not possible to measure whether quality of life crimes increased or decreased, as police presence in the area could lead to greater number of observed crimes which could skew crime rates. The 15% of people who had more than one contact with the police during the time period were responsible for 41% of arrests. People arrested or cited in the Safe Zone were 65% African American, 15% White, 2% American Indian, and 1% Asian. 17% of individuals marked race/ethnicity "unknown". The report takes a closer look at the 33 people with four or more police contacts in the Safe Zone: 12% were homeless, 45% had received mental health services, 85% had stayed at least one night in a homeless shelter in the last half-year; 31were African American, 1 Caucasian, and 1 American Indian. The 33 people accounted for 20% of all police contacts in the Safe Zone, a total of 257 contacts. Thirty had been authorized and/or admitted for chemical health dependency in Hennepin County. Recommendations include refining the police response to misdemeanors and better confronting a small number of re-offenders responsible for multiple police contacts.

Wilder Foundation

Delinquents Under 10: Targeted Early Intervention (2003)

This paper discusses the targeted early intervention (TEI) program in Minneapolis for children under ten whose delinquency so early in their lives places them at high risk for repeat offending. The program's aims are to reduce delinquency, reduce abuse in the home, increase school success, and increase social competence. A screening team identifies children most at risk of continuing delinquency by risk factors in their environments. 96% of participants were children of color and 75% were Black. Felonies may have decreased while children were in TEI. School attendance increased markedly, but children still faced the obstacles of acquiring basic skills, paying attention, and behavioral problems in school. Otherwise there were no statistically significant effects of TEI. Methods to improve the TEI program are discussed.

Minnesota Supreme Court Task Force on Racial Bias (1993)

The Task Force was commissioned to examine the significance of race in arrests, detention on probable causes, charging offenses, bail negotiations, jury selection, plea negotiations, sentencing, the treatment of victims, children in need of protective services, juvenile delinquency, representation in the criminal justice profession, jury composition, and other matters. In interviews and surveys conducted, judges, lawyers, and victims reported perceiving racial bias in all aspects of the criminal justice system. Furthermore, several quantitative studies were conducted. One, controlling for previous offenses, found sentencing discrepancies in three of four criminal offenses: aggravated robbery, dangerous weapons, and second degree assault. Quantitative studies also found racial disparities in pre-sentence jail time, setting of bail and pretrial release. Recommendations include hiring more people of color in the criminal justice system, instituting and improving cultural sensitivity programs at all levels of the criminal justice system, and being alert to racial bias.

Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission

Sentencing Practices: Annual Summary Statistics for Felony Offenders Sentenced in 2004

Out of the 10,701 felony offenders sentenced in Minnesota in 2004, Whites received local incarceration 71.1% of the time, African Americans 62.9%, American Indians 63.9%, and Hispanics 64.4% of the time. For non-local incarceration, Whites were sentenced to state prison (a longer sentence) 19.9% of the time, African Americans 30.2% of the time, American Indians 27.4%, Hispanics 28.2%, and Asians 22.9% of the time. Racial disparities in incarceration for felony offenses had increased markedly since 1981.

Sentencing Practices Controlled Substance Offenses: Offenders Sentenced in 2004

Methamphetamine cases now make up over half of sentenced drug cases. There has been a steady increase in drug offenses since 2000. In Hennepin and Ramsey counties, drug cases are more frequently for cocaine, whereas in other counties, drug cases are more frequently for methamphetamines. The growth in methamphetamine sentencing has negated some of the racial disparity in drug arrests, as Whites more frequently use methamphetamines. Overall 93% of convicted drug offenders are incarcerated. This percent has increased steadily over the last decade. The report charts the sentences issued for individual drug offenses by race.

Sentencing Practices Criminal Sexual Conduct: Offenses Sentenced in 2004

The volume of sex offender cases has fluctuated in the last two decades. For sex offenders, 65.5% were White, 17.8% Black, 4.7% Native American, and 10.7% Hispanic. For criminal offenses overall, 62.9% were White, 24.5% Black, 6.3% Native American, and 4.7% Hispanic. In 2004, 35% of those sentenced for sex offenses received an executed prison sentence. Overall, 94% were sentenced to incarceration. The report charts sentences issued for individual criminal sexual conduct offenses overall.

Sentencing Practices Motor Vehicle Theft and Use: Offenders Sentenced in 2004

This report notes that Blacks were more likely to be sentenced for motor vehicle thefts than they were to be sentenced for criminal offenses overall (27% and 25% respectively); the same pattern was present for Native American offenders. The study describes offender characteristics and the range of sentences for motor vehicle offenses.

Sentencing Practice Felony DWI: Offenders Sentenced in 2004

This report describes the range of sentences and offender characteristics for felony DWIs. Felony DWI offenders were more likely to be White or Native American than were offenders as a whole. Of felony DWI offenders, 73.1% were White, 11.7% were Native American, 9% were Black, and 6% were Hispanic. For criminal offenses overall, 62.9% of offenders were White, 24.5% Black, 6.3% Native American, and 4.7% Hispanic.

Report to the Legislature on Drug Offender Sentencing Issues (2004)

This report was commissioned by the Minnesota legislature to review sentencing and incarceration of drug offenders in Minnesota. Findings include a more than 300% increase in sentenced drug offenders since 1981. The distribution of drug offenders in 2002 was 58% White, 30.5% Black, 3.1% Native American, and 7.2% Hispanic. Methamphetamine offenses accounted for the partial decline in racial disparity for drug offenses. Furthermore, more drug users are being incarcerated. Drug offenses have risen to 23% of the total prison population versus 9% in 1990, accounting in large part for the rise in incarceration. In analyzing Minnesota's low thresholds for drug sentences and high rates of downward departures from sentencing guidelines, the case is made that Minnesota's sentencing guidelines for drug offenses may be set too high. Recommendations include revisiting thresholds, developing and funding drug treatment, and creating a comprehensive statewide sentencing policy. The alternative is to continue to increase prison capacity.

Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor

Substance Abuse Treatment

The report describes the level of success and scope of use of drug treatment programs across Minnesota counties, with a focus on inmates. It does not specifically address racial disparities in drug treatment, but given the greater proportion of incarcerated persons of color, drug treatment is a topic of concern. Key recommendations are that the Department of Human Services strengthen its oversight of drug treatment programs, which are typically run through each county, and that the Department of Corrections should present a strategy for improving the outcomes and increasing the scope of drug treatment for inmates. Drug treatment has been correlated with decreased recidivism, but it is unclear whether lower recidivism was the result of treatment rather than individuals' motivation to change.

Non-Felony Prosecution

The report addresses effective and ineffective prosecution for misdemeanor offenses. Recommendations include early contact with victims of domestic assault and greater use of diversion for first-time low-level offenses.

Academic Research

Christopher Uggen. Felon Disenfranchisement in Minnesota (2006)

Christopher Uggen, professor of sociology at the University of Minnesota, studies nationwide trends in felon disenfranchisement. In this paper, currently in draft form, he discusses Minnesota specifically. He notes racial disparity in felon disenfranchisement in Minnesota: "The 57,961 felons disenfranchised in Minnesota in 2004 represent about 1.6 percent of the state's voting-age population, but over 13 percent of African Americans of voting age (relative to 1 percent of the non-African American voting-age population)." Others of his studies document racial disparities in felon disenfranchisement nationwide.

Minneapolis Police Department

Memorandum of Agreement (2000)

The Memorandum of Agreement is a commitment by the Minneapolis Police Department to: 1) limit use of force, 2) establish a police- community relations council with some level of oversight, 3) be sensitive to mental illness, 4) diversify its work force, 5) increase cultural sensitivity and awareness by language instruction and cultural training, 6) to analyze and follow a protocol for reporting potential racial profiling, and 7) follow a protocol for police accountability.

Criminal Justice Center

Commuting Patterns

Blacks were more likely to work in the metro area - 42% compared to 24% of Whites and 36% of Hispanics - and less likely to work in outer suburban areas, which are the fastest growing job centers. In 2000, Blacks in Minnesota were far more likely to work in declining or slow growth work areas than Whites.

Minneapolis Police Force Annual Report (2004)

The Police Annual Report describes, for one, the racial/ethnic backgrounds of its employees. The racial makeup of Minneapolis' Police Force in 2004 was 79% White, 12% Black, 3% Hispanic, 3% Asian, and 3% American Indian.

Armed with Data

"Armed with Data" is a four-state project describing gun use, the demographics of gun users, and firearm regulations across Montana, Minnesota, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Whites made up two-thirds of arrests for weapon violations and also most victims were White males. In Minnesota, Whites accounted for 86% of gun-related deaths. Also, American Indians and Asians were a small portion of weapons arrests, while Whites made up 62% of weapons arrests and African Americans 31%. Recommendations focus advancing for future research.

Minnesota Judicial Branch

Project Remand Pretrial Evaluation and Custody Study (2002)

An analysis was conducted to determine whether the pretrial evaluation tool used in Minnesota unfairly discriminates among minority offenders. It was found that the tool was valid: it did discriminate amongst offenders, but only according to their score, not their race. There was no statistical difference between scores on the tool by race. Further, it was found that race was not a factor in judicial decisions to hold offenders in custody versus releasing them into the community. The conclusion is that race does not play a significant factor in bail versus release decisions in Minnesota.

Defining, Understanding, and Addressing Racial Profiling Minneapolis Police Training

This presentation defines and examines racial profiling by the police. Motivations for racial bias, good and bad aspects of bias, historical judicial treatment of racial profiling, and police practices to detect offenders are explored as well. The paper explains the CCJ and Institute on Race and Poverty's study on traffic stops. The consequences of racial profiling include increased perception of discrimination by minorities, distrust, cynicism about the legitimacy of enforcement efforts, and not least of all, injustice. The report also discusses court rulings on the constitutionality of racial profiling. It concludes with questions for police officers to ask of themselves in order to prevent racial profiling.

Council on Crime and Justice

Firearm Possession and Victimization Among Hennepin County Arrestees (2004)

This study is a collection of information on gun ownership collected from by administering the Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (ADAM)'s Firearm Addendum. Just under one-half reported that they had owned a gun at some time. Percent considering owning a gun is also reported. Reasons and source for obtaining a gun were also explored. Also, more than half reported that they had been threatened with a gun at some point in their lifetime. Findings show that Blacks are less likely to own firearms than Whites, but more likely to be owners of handguns. In addition to race, drug use, criminal history, and current offense were all related to gun ownership as well as firearm victimization.

II. HOUSING

Hennepin County

Housing Survey (2001)

In a survey of 3,200 housing program members, 40% were African American although only 19.5% of people in Hennepin County were African American. In essence, Minnesota Family Investment clients were disproportionately African American. Of survey respondents, 55% were unhappy with their housing, and one third to one half were in unstable living arrangements at the time of the survey. The most common barrier to housing was "low/no income". Recommendations included providing tenant education and services to help tenants search for housing, and for Hennepin County to focus its resources on stable, safe housing arrangements.

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium, 2002

African American Men and the Housing Crunch

Office of Planning and Development

The current shortage of available housing affects African Americans and other communities of color at a greater level than Whites. African Americans are less likely to own their homes than Whites, limiting their capacity to gain wealth. In addition, a disproportionate share of all homeless men, women and children are African American. Several recent studies conducted in the Twin Cities metropolitan area point to discrimination and other barriers to home ownership and/or renting an apartment.

III. EDUCATION

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium (2002)

The Education of African American Boys, Kindergarten Through Grade 12

Office of Planning and Development

African American boys in suburban Hennepin County public schools are twice as likely to graduate high school on time (56%) than their Minneapolis counterparts (23%). Additionally, African American girls are more likely to graduate on time than African American boys. African American boys in Minneapolis have different experiences at various stages in the educational system that may help explain their low success rate in comparison to other groups.

African American Men in Minnesota's Public/Private Universities and State Colleges

Office of Planning and Development

Forty-eight percent of African American boys in Hennepin County public high schools drop out, making enrollment in post-secondary education difficult. Of those who do graduate from Hennepin County high schools, African American males are less likely to go to college than African American women, White men and White women. Additionally, African American men and women who do attend college are much more likely to attend a 2-year college than their White counterparts. At the same time, enrollment in Minnesota four-year colleges by African American men from Hennepin County has been decreasing. Furthermore, those African Americans who do enroll in Minnesota's public two- and four-year post-secondary institutions graduate at much lower rates than White students.

African American Men from Hennepin County and the University of Minnesota, 1994-1998

Dr. David Taylor, Bruce Schelske, Jennifer Hatfield, and Dana Lundell

In four years, only 129 African American men from Hennepin County were admitted to the University of Minnesota. Two-thirds of these men entered the University through the General College, indicating that they had not met admission standards of the more selective colleges. These students' admission and financial application information reveals a disorganized or haphazard process with very few students meeting priority application deadlines. African American male students from Hennepin County had low high school ranks and college entrance examination scores and often lacked expected high school preparatory classes when compared to their peers. Student interviews reflect feelings of isolation and loneliness and a desire for greater numbers of African American peers, college staff and faculty. Receiving good financial aid was also an important factor for students' success in entering and persisting in college.

IV. EMPLOYMENT

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium (2002)

African American Men's Employment

Office of Planning and Development

This report illustrates that African American men represent an increasing portion of the Hennepin County labor force. African American men are, however, still more sensitive to fluctuations in the economy than are Whites, and unemployment rates are greater for African Americans.

V. HOMELESSNESS

Wilder Foundation

Homeless Adults and Children In Minnesota (2004)

This report discusses descriptive statistics, housing needs, and barriers experienced by homeless individuals in Minnesota. Of surveyed homeless adults, the majority were people of color: 43% were Caucasian, 39% Black, 9% American Indian, and 7% Hispanic. The 2003 study was the first to show a decrease in people of color. Age, number of families, and unemployment of homeless respondents had increased. Those with mental health problems had risen significantly, to 42%. Percent of ex-offenders among the homeless had also steadily climbed, up to 42% in 2003. The paper also discussed reported challenges to ex-offenders in finding housing.

Homeless in Minnesota in 2003: Youth reports from the statewide survey

This report, compiled from a survey of youth without homes on a particular night, lists descriptive statistics, housing needs, and barriers experienced by homeless youth in Minnesota. Of homeless youth in 2003, 35% were White, 31% African American or Native African, and 22% American Indian, a steady increase in racial disparity since 1991. Racial disparities were particularly exacerbated in the metro area itself.

Long-term homelessness among individuals and families in Minnesota in 2003

There were racial disparities in long-term homelessness - 44% were White, 39% African American, 9% American Indian, , and 6% Hispanic Latino. The numbers of long-term homeless in Minnesota, their characteristics according to the type of housing with which they were provided, their characteristics by whether they were in the metro area or the greater Minnesota location, and the specific groups of homeless who may not be receiving adequate services are discussed.

Measuring Progress Towards Self-Reliance (2002)

This report found an increase in 11 out of 15 self-reliance domains (including employment, food, shelter, transportation, and education) amongst participants who received services from Community Action Agencies. From the more than 500 who responded, 81% using Community Action services were White, 12% Black or African American, and 7% Other.

VI. CHILDREN, FAMILIES & COMMUNITIES

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium (2002)

African American Families

Office of Planning and Development

There are substantial differences in family structure and size between the different racial groups. African American families are much more likely to be headed by a single mother than White families. Over one-half of all African American children are being raised by a single mother. Furthermore, African American families in Minneapolis are more likely to be headed by a single parent than African American families in the suburbs.

Family Complexities: African American Men and the Black Family Structure

Rose M. Brewer Ph.D.

Focus groups were conducted and analyzed to better understand African American men's experiences in and thoughts about families. Overall, African American men describe growing up in very complicated families. Often, they discussed absent fathers and households containing violence or drugs and alcohol. Still, African American men strive to be good fathers and want to be able to provide economically for their families. The men know that without jobs and livable wages, their prospects for good fathering and family stability are poor.

VII. HEALTH

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium (2002)

The Health of African American Men

Minneapolis Department of Health and Family Services
David Doth & Dave Johnson

African American men are less likely than the general population to be in good health, to be covered by health insurance and to seek health care in a timely manner. These factors contribute to less overall health and well-being for these men. Recommendations such as culturally competent health care, better public health education, better data collection on race and improving eligibility for public and private health insurance benefits can help improve health conditions of this group of men.

Health Care Use Among Young African American Men

Office of Planning and Development

This study analyzed health care use of African American men ages 18 to 30 at two health care organizations. The analysis found that this group's utilization rates of emergency and urgent care were high, while use of clinics and preventive care was lower. This group was uninsured at a higher rate than all other racial/ethnic groups except Hispanic/Latinos. An analysis on sexually transmitted diseases was also conducted, using data collected through the Red Door Clinic. The data showed that African American males were more likely to be diagnosed with a reportable STD and were more likely to visit the clinic repeatedly.

Hennepin County

Community Health Services Fact Sheet: Pregnancy and Birth (2003)

The Assessment was commissioned by Hennepin County to explore health challenges in pregnancy and birth. The assessment noted racial disparities in pre-term birth, low birth weight, and infant death. Black woman are most likely to deliver pre-term babies. Women of color are more likely to deliver low birth-weight babies. American Indian, Black, and Hispanic infants are more likely to die before their first birthday. Factors that may endanger infants are lack of pre-conception, pre-natal, and post-natal care; smoking; and alcohol use. Several Hennepin County resources for case management and care are listed.

Community Health Services Fact Sheet: Alcohol Abuse (2003)

Hennepin County created this fact sheet to address alcohol abuse issues. The fact sheet noted racial disparities in binge drinking and treatment. For binge drinking among both adults and high school students, American Indians, followed by Whites, then Hispanics were the most likely to consume alcohol in large amounts. Whites were over two-thirds of those admitted to treatment facilities, followed by African Americans (19%), American Indians (8%), and Hispanics (4%). Contributing factors include age at first use, heredity, individual behaviors, families, peer groups, and communities. There are several resources available in Hennepin County to address alcohol abuse.

Health Happens in Healthy Communities (2004)

This study does not specifically address racial disparities in healthcare, but it does broadly indicate that they exist in Minnesota, particularly in North Minneapolis. It also notes disparities in health status and outcomes across neighborhoods. Racial disparity was specifically noted in both formal and peer diabetes education programs. Hispanic communities experienced great success with both forms of diabetes education. It also noted that the community wanted a greater diversity of health care providers of color.

The Metro Minority Health Assessment Project

The percent of the nation's population classified as White will shift from 72% in 2000 to 53% by 2050. By about 2025, 17% of MN's population will be people of color. Reasons for health disparities include racism, poverty, individual behavior and access to health insurance. Findings discuss the demographics of minority populations, income inequality, rates of receiving free lunch, and dependency ratios across counties.

Hennepin County Survey of the Health of Adults, the Population, and the Environment (SHAPE) (2002):

Health Status of Hennepin County African-Born Black Adults

From a survey of 559 African-born Black adults out of a randomly selected sample of approximately 10,000 adults, researchers observed health conditions and general demographics. The number of African immigrants in Hennepin County has grown almost eightfold between 1990 and 2000. Nearly 20% of African-born Black adults in Hennepin County have not completed high school, compared to 9.4% all adults in the county. Health disparities included lack of insurance coverage (nearly 10% were uninsured for the entire year preceding the study, versus 3.4% of all adults in the country), disuse of preventive health screening, daily fruit and vegetable consumption, discrimination (African-born adults were four times more likely to report experiencing discrimination than all adults in the county), and economic hardship. Yet African-born adults were less likely than other adults in the county to smoke, binge-drink, or be overweight.

Health Status of Hennepin County American Indian Adults

From a survey of 224 American Indians out of a randomly selected sample of approximately 10,000 adults, researchers observed health conditions and general demographics. American Indians experience the highest poverty rate (28.7%) and general unemployment rate, coinciding with greater health problems. One-third of American Indians are obese, and one in five has diabetes. Depression rates are two to three times those of adults as a whole in Hennepin County. Further, close to one-third lack health insurance. Though eating and exercise habits are similar to those of most Hennepin county adults, cigarette smoking and binge-drinking are more prevalent among American Indians. Information in this fact sheet can be used as baseline data to track patterns in health, in order to identify health disparities, and for health improvement grant applications.

Health Status of Hennepin County U.S.-Born Black Adults

From a survey of 613 U.S.-born Black adults out of a randomly selected sample of about 10,000 adults, researchers observed health conditions and demographics. One fourth had incomes below the Federal Poverty Level. As reasons they delayed the medical care they needed, 36.7% cited lack of health insurance or cost. Rates of smoking and obesity are higher, and fruit and vegetable consumption rates are lower than for the general populace in Hennepin County. Discrimination and economic hardship were disproportionately present as well. Information in this fact sheet can be used as baseline data to track patterns in health, in order to identify health disparities, and for health improvement grant applications.

Health Status of Hennepin County Latino Adults

From a survey of 634 Latino adults out of a randomly selected sample of approximately 10,000 adults, researchers observed health conditions and general demographics. Latinos experience a very high poverty rate and very low educational levels in Hennepin county. In Hennepin County, 43% of Latinos lack high school diplomas. Latino adults are 5 times more likely to lack health insurance than adults as a whole, less frequently use preventive health screening, more frequently experience discrimination, and lack food and housing security. In Hennepin County, 30% of Latinos compared to 7.2% of all adults reported that they worried "often" or "sometimes" about having enough money for food. Yet healthy lifestyles were similar to those for the overall population. Information in this fact sheet can be used as baseline data to track patterns in health, in order to identify health disparities, and for health improvement grant applications.

Health Status of Hennepin County Southeast Asian Adults

From a survey of 467 Southeast Asian adults out of a randomly selected sample of approximately 10,000 adults, researchers observed health conditions and general demographics. Overall health seemed to be similar to, if not better, than that for the county overall. Though the percent with health insurance was comparable to that for the county, significantly more Southeast Asian adults had public healthcare. Finally, healthy lifestyles and behavior appeared similar if not better than that reported for the overall county population. Information in this fact sheet can be used as baseline data to track patterns in health, in order to identify health disparities, and for health improvement grant applications.

Latinos in Hennepin County

This paper notes population trends, demographics, strengths, and challenges for the Latino community in Hennepin County. The Latino population is growing overall; however, it is becoming more concentrated in the metro area. Per capita income and household income is lower than the county median. Strengths include entrepreneurialism, community networking, and self-reliance. Challenges are domestic abuse coinciding with distrust of government services, English as a second language, higher poverty rates, and lower rates of health care coverage than Whites. Support programs to foster community business, make immigration processes more friendly, and disseminate information in Spanish are recommended.

Center for Health Statistics

Populations of Color in Minnesota - Health Status Report (2006)

Despite the fact that African American infants are disproportionately low in birth weights, the overall percentage of infants with low birth weights is on the decline. Infant mortality rates have declined and the adequacy of prenatal care has increased; however, racial disparities remain. Teen birth rates, adult death rates, incidences of cancer, and disparities in health insurance coverage (which are rising for Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian populations) are also discussed.

Eliminating Disparities in the Health Status of African Americans in Minnesota (2004)

This fact sheet documents racial disparity in infant mortality, injury and violence, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, immunization, breast and cervical cancer, teen pregnancy, and HIV/AIDS & STDs at a glance.

VIII. RACIAL DISPARITIES

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium, 2002

Who are These Men?

This section includes six studies. "African American Men: A Census Profile," by the Office of Planning and Development, describes the increase in the African American population and the decreasing concentration of African Americans in Minneapolis. Now more African Americans live in the suburbs, but a greater percent of the city population is African American as well, due to an increase in African American population overall. In "Speaking from Experience: African American Men in Hennepin County", by Vanessa McKendall, Ph.D., focus groups were conducted to learn about African American men's thoughts and sense of well-being. Participants could identify their goals but often had trouble structuring plans to achieve them. Also, participants stressed the importance of formal and informal mentors, as well as family. They felt that increased support, work opportunities, and transitional programs would be helpful. "The Psychology of African American Men: The Psychologist's Roundtable" was a collection of five psychologists' thoughts on the psychological well-being of African American men in Hennepin County. Challenges were to create healthy families and surmount negative media images. "The Negative Cash-Flow System: An Inner-City Economic Reality" by Shane Price describes how the negative cash flow system, originally "a way of creatively making something out of nothing," has morphed into a dysfunctional and dangerous system for African American communities. "The Status of Black Men and Boys in American Society" by the Institute on Race and Poverty, discusses the marginalization of African American men in the U.S. as a result of the criminal justice system, the educational system, the labor market, and the health system in particular. It emphasizes the need to address the interconnections of the underlying causes of disparity. Finally, "How African American Men are Faring in 11 U.S. Cities" assessed data on ten measures of well-being in cities across the U.S. and found that, though African Americans are faring as badly in other cities as they are in Minneapolis, the gap between African Americans and Whites is greatest in Minneapolis.

An Assessment of Racism in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington Counties Wilder Foundation; Humphrey Institute for Public Affairs; at the request of the Saint Paul Foundation (2004)

A number of focus groups were conducted to survey racism and experiences of racism in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties. Many individuals said they were watched in stores as though they might steal things; more than a third say they get nervous walking into a room when there is no one of their race present. Accounts of housing discrimination ranged from landlords saying that apartments were no longer available to perceived discrimination by mortgage companies and realtors. Also, neighbors were reported to have made it difficult to live in a neighborhood by making racist comments. Challenges in school included inadequate curriculum, neglectful schools, verbal/physical mistreatment by other students, and high or too low expectations for students. Many had been upset by experiences of racism: about one-fourth of African Americans and American Indians said they had felt emotionally upset by the way they were treated because of their race in the past 30 days. The report notes, as well, that Whites and communities of color think similarly about racial justice; very few Whites are actually disengaged (though those few are often in positions of power). Recommendations focused on raising awareness, increasing interracial contact, and fostering leadership at the individual and institutional levels.

Casa Mexico

This report examines the challenges and opportunities posed by immigrants in Minnesota. It describes the history of immigration, major immigrant groups, education of adult immigrants, and legal issues affecting immigrants. Minnesota's Hispanic population is the fastest growing minority group in the state. The report notes language barriers, high numbers of school drop-outs, and tension and distrust of law enforcement as issues facing the Hispanic/Latino community. The report recommends consideration of whether undocumented immigrants should be eligible to vote, to pay in-state tuition rates, and to fulfill driver's license requirements.

Wilder Foundation

Metro Trend Watch (2004)

This study looks at trends in infant health, school, housing, economic opportunities, and safety in the Twin Cities. Observations include a decrease in teen births. The significant decrease occurred in Black communities. The study noted that racial/ethnic disparities are evident in education; that home affordability has decreased and White residents are nearly twice as likely to own a home as people of any other ethnicity; that unemployment is much higher for other ethnic groups than it is for Whites; and that crime rates are down, nevertheless 14% of the overall metro population have experienced crime in the last year while 22% of Blacks have. Recommendations are directed at nonprofits, government, individuals, businesses, and health care providers.

Child Care and Working Parents (2002)

This study explores the general demographics and specific concerns of working parents using child care services. Parents who report that child care problems prevent them from taking a job are disproportionately people of color (25%). They are also more likely to have less than a college education and to earn an income below 200% of the poverty level. Other findings indicate that parents with irregular working hours have greater trouble with child care and that nearly one in four families lose working time because of trouble with child care.

Building Communities Where Older Adults Thrive (2004)

The aging population in Minnesota is steadily increasing. Older African Americans (65 and over) have increased by 23%, Asian by 93%, and Hmong by 23% in the last decade. From 1990 to 2000, the number of low-income households doubled for Hispanics/Latinos and Asians, and went up 23% for Blacks. In addition to a survey of all older adults, surveys were conducted in areas of high racial/ethnic group concentration to address needs specific to those communities. Service use and needs, housing, transportation, quality of life factors, and suggestions for improving the community were explored for African Americans, Hmongs, and Hispanics/ Latinos. Analyzing each race/ethnic group separately, it was found that older African Americans were more likely to be poor, as likely to have an income of $15,000 to $49,999, and more likely to be women than the aging population overall. About 24% did not know who to ask about available services for older adults. Aging Hmong surveyed were much less likely to be homeowners and more likely (95%) to have an income below $15,000/yr. Of aging Hmong, 60% did not know who to ask for information on available services. Latinos were less likely to be widowed, more likely to be poor (annual income of less than $15,000), and nearly as likely to be homeowners. Approximately 25% of aging Latino adults did not know who to ask to learn about services for older adults.

Older Adults in Ramsey County - Census Fact Sheet (2000)

In a description of demographics of older adults in Ramsey County, the report notes racial disparity in poverty. African Americans make up 3% of older adults in Ramsey County but are 6% of those in poverty. Asian American are 2.3% of the older adult population but 13% of those in poverty. Latinos are 1.3% of the older adult population and 3.5% of those in poverty. The percents are out of the 3,800 older adults with incomes below the poverty line.

Tackling the Achievement Gap Head-On (2005)

This report describes the necessity for community-based efforts to address racial and ethnic gaps in education. The report notes that the divides surrounding achievement and income amongst racial/ethnic groups largely overlap: 83% of the students of color in St. Paul schools are low-income. Of students of color, 37% are learning English as a second language. The report cites a national study showing that achievement gaps begin in early childhood development. The achievement gap in St. Paul schools is rampant, results of the third grade reading test show: less than half of Black, American Indian, Asian, and Hispanic students are proficient at reading, compared to 81% of White students. The gap persists across all academic areas in 8th grade tests and on-time graduation rates. Reasons for the gap include lack of advantages such as: a rigorous curriculum, teacher experience, technology, student stability, parental involvement, health factors, prevalence of television and reading at home, peer pressure, and school climate. Research suggests promoting preschool programs and creating learning-conducive school environments. The success of other strategies aimed at closing the achievement gap is more controversial.

Family Involvement to Promote Student Achievement (1999)

The paper notes that "'what families do' to support children's learning accounted for more than 'who families are'". However, several factors may pose barriers to parents of color and/or low-income. Factors identified are: cultural, racial, and economic differences between school staff and parents; parents' work schedules, child care, and transportation; school staff's difficulty in working with parents and vice versa; and lack of understanding on how parents can be involved. The paper also identifies features of parental involvement that contribute to academic success. Strategies to increase parental involvement are discussed.

Lessons Learned About Effective School Management Strategies

This review finds common practices in schools improving achievement for low-income, minority and/or at-risk students. The review identifies site-based management, which allows the community to adapt each particular school to their students' needs, as a preferred strategy to improve achievement. Additional good management strategies include a commonly shared mission statement and goals, problem-solving culture, a multiplicity of methods to involve different stakeholders in choices relating to education, training and development, and information accessibility. Also discussed are three model schools, developed at Yale, Stanford, and Brown respectively. The Yale model features three groups, a school management team, a mental health team, and a parent program team. Parents and staff are involved in all three teams. The Stanford model gives teachers discretion but also responsibility for the consequences of their choices. It also mandates that teachers build on students' already-existing strengths. The Brown model, divides students of one grade into subgroups, taught by a team of teachers, so teachers can develop more personal relationships with their students.

Youth and Young Adults on their Own (2005)

This report explores the demographics of homelessness amongst young adults in Minnesota. Overall, homeless youth are 65% African American, American Indian, Asian, or multiracial although they account for only 15% of the greater population. In the metro area, 16% of homeless youth are White, while in greater Minnesota, 55% of homeless youth are White. Metro area homeless youth are more likely to have been abused, to have a job, and to need to see a dentist or doctor. School truancy, history of abuse, drug use, history of out of home placements, pregnancy and parenting were all risk factors associated with youth homelessness.

Our Children: Our Future (2003)

This report discusses out-of-home placement for children in Minnesota. Of children in out-of-home placement, 57% are White, 20% are Black, 12% are American Indian, 2% are Asian, 6% are Latino, and 8% of multiple races although in the greater population, 84% of children are White, 5% Black, 2% American Indian, 4% Latino, and 3% of multiple races. Racial disparity in out-of-home placements is similar to that of children in the state correctional facility and of homeless youth. Some were placed for children-centered reasons, some for parent-centered reasons, and a very small number for child disability. Child, parent, and community risk factors for out-of-home placement are listed. Only a small percentage of delinquent or abused children are placed in out-of-home facilities. Factors to ensure every child has a stable home are discussed.

The State of Hunger in Minnesota (2006)

The results of a 2005 survey of food assistance recipients show an over-representation of minorities. Of food assistance recipients, 68% are White, 12% American Indian, 10% Black, 9% Latino, and 2% Asian/Pacific Islander. Approximately two thirds have monthly incomes less than $1000. Only ¼ had housing costs that were affordable under their incomes. Furthermore, those with jobs still experience difficulty meeting their basic needs.

The Issues Behind the Outcomes for Somali, Hmong, African American, and American Indian Welfare Recipients in Minnesota (2003)

This study examines why African Americans, American Indians, Hmong, and Somali participants are less likely to be employed or off-welfare than White participants. Culturally-specific focus groups mentioned a need to develop specific job skills and soft skills, though individuals had little trouble finding low-skill jobs. The cost of housing and the abruptness of a cut-off in benefits from MFIP were also discussed. Recommendations are to strengthen individualized support and to balance work requirements and work support.

Welfare Reform (2000)

In discussing welfare reform in Minnesota, this report touches on racial disparities in welfare recipients. "In 1999, 3 percent of Minnesota's White, non-Hispanic children were on welfare, compared with 40 percent of African Americans, 36 percent of American Indians, 26 percent of Asian Americans, and 23 percent of Hispanics. The percentage of Minnesota's children who are on welfare dropped recently, but the decline was greater for Whites than for minorities. Two-thirds of Minnesota children on welfare in 1999 were racial or ethnic minorities-compared with one-third in 1987." A reason suggested for this growth is an increase in the overall minority population in Minnesota. Recommendations are to monitor and formulate specific strategies to address racial disparities in welfare use. The report also notes that "many welfare cases begin with an out-of-wedlock birth." Though ¼ of births statewide are out-of-wedlock, this percent is substantially higher for populations of color than Whites. For instance, 81% of births to American Indian women and 67% of births to African American women are out-of-wedlock.

Mind the Gap: Reducing Disparities to Improve Regional Competitiveness in the Twin Cities

Economic growth and business prosperity in Minnesota mask large racial disparities. Though median household income is among the highest in the nation (14th out of the 100 largest cities), Black household income is among the lowest. Though the metro area has one of the highest levels of adults with a high school diploma in the country, it ranks 40th out of 100 for percent of Latinos having completed high school. The report isolates three sets of gaps: by racial/ethnic identity, income, and urban v. suburban groups. Following are the highlights for racial disparities. The Twin Cities has the 12th highest college attainment rate-33% have bachelor's degrees-but only 19% of African Americans and even fewer Hispanic/Latinos and Hmongs do. Whites' median household income was $56,642 while Blacks was $29,404. For homeownership, while 76% of Whites were homeowners in 2000 (and in fact, the Twin Cities ranked 7th in home ownership), only 32% of Blacks owned homes. Finally, while overall poverty rates are very low, racial minorities have much higher poverty rates. For geographic disparities in 2000, the Twin Cities had 23% of the region's total population, but 54% percent of all poor residents and 54% of all persons of color. Also, racial inequalities in the region can undermine its economic and fiscal future, injuring its competitive workforce and consumption base, and spilling over into greater Minnesota. Recommendations are threefold: that Minnesota update the "basics" (education, health care, and public safety), help minorities to close the income and wealth gaps, and extend community development to low-income and minority residents.

Opportunities for All - Closing the Racial Disparities Gap in MN

"Opportunities for all" documents racial disparities in economic well-being (home ownership rates in MN, percent living below the poverty line), education (standardized testing, high school education, higher education, kindergarten readiness), and health (mortality, health insurance, births to teen mothers). A particularly striking statistic is that 1 in 17 of Minnesotans living below the poverty line are White and 1 in 4 are African American.

Closing the Gap: A Public Health Report on Racial Disparities, 2001

"Closing the Gap" reports on immigrant, refugee, and racial/ethnic disparities in health in Minnesota. Poor infant health, mothers under 20, and single mothers are health risks the Somali, Hmong, and Latino communities shared. In conducting focus groups on language & communication, human services, cultural barriers, economic issues, and discrimination, various concerns emerged. Recommendations from the community include language training, information distribution, and community clinics. Other recommendations include educating the community about health disparities, increasing participation of people of color in the health care profession, and working to reduce social and economic disparities which may be root causes for health care issues.

The Experience of Women and Girls of Color in North Minneapolis as it relates to the Interplay of Health, Well Being, and Racism

In this study, focus groups with 77 women were conducted to explore health, well being, and racism in North Minneapolis. Participants reported lack of sensitivity and racial discrimination by health care workers. Many said "they want to walk into a clinic or hospital and see providers who look like them". Furthermore, they lacked communication and trust with health care workers.

The Institute on Race and Poverty

A Report to the McKnight Foundation

Examining the Relationship Between Housing, Education, and Persistent Segregation (1997)

This report maintains that the Twin Cities are rapidly starting to look like Milwaukee, Detroit, and Cleveland. The Twin Cities has the highest rate of people of color in poverty of the 25 largest cities in the nation. Further, concentrated poverty is more than twice the national average. The four sections of the report cover housing segregation in urban centers across the nation, the Twin Cities region itself, the results of a racial attitudes survey, and solutions for the Twin Cities. Nationally, causes of housing discrimination include discrimination in private markets, placing of subsidized housing in urban areas, and exclusionary zoning. One conclusion is that, while individual poverty rates are fairly stable, the concentration of poverty is rapidly increasing. Concentrated poverty tends to exponentially exacerbate the harms of poverty, ranging from an almost non-existent economic base to crime to a lack of worker training. The second section shows that Twin Cities data fit national patterns. Of people of color, 65% in the Twin Cities live in the central cities, and populations are largely segregated by neighborhood. Maps show that areas of poverty in the Twin Cities have disproportionately high minority populations. The success of possible solutions ranging from Fair Share Housing policies to charter schools are explored.

IX. PROGRAMS & SERVICES

African American Men Project

Subsections from the Research Compendium (2002)

When Stakeholders Matter

John M. Bryson and Karen J. Lokkesmoe
The Office of Planning and Development

A stakeholder analysis was conducted for this project in an effort to frame issues facing African American men in Hennepin County. Techniques used in this analysis centered on understanding power, influence and the pursuit of the common good. These techniques helped stakeholders address problems and determine solutions to issues facing African American men. Through these exercises, researches learned that race-neutral strategies for addressing problems can have a greater impact on African American males. Another finding was that the African American community in general can potentially improve outcomes by enhancing its own political power.

African American Males: An Overlooked Investment Opportunity

Stephan A. Hoenack, Ph.D.

There has been substantial growth in the African American population in Hennepin County over the past 20 years. People came to Hennepin County and continue to live here looking for opportunities, but they often find themselves living in neighborhoods with concentrated poverty and high crime. Many people in these impoverished neighborhoods find themselves in trouble with the criminal justice system. This cost of this criminal involvement is very high-to government, to the incarcerated men, and particularly to the victims. But Hennepin County has the opportunity to change the course of events through learning communities. In these communities, peers learn from one another and teach one another the necessary skills and competencies needed for success.

Use of Services from Multiple County Departments/Units

Office of Planning and Development

Adult Detention Center booking data and Adult Corrections Facility data suggest that 18 to 30-year-old African American men are disproportionately involved in the criminal justice system, and are often admitted for more serious offenses than White men in the same age group. Most of these men live in Minneapolis, while their White counterparts more often live in the suburbs. Similarly, African American male clients of several other county departments most often reside in Minneapolis. The men who used more than one service provided by Hennepin County tended to live in the same few Minneapolis neighborhoods: Phillips, Near North, Willard-Hay, Jordan, Whittier, Central and Hawthorne.

Hennepin County's Employment and Training Programs

Office of Planning and Development

Hennepin County's income maintenance and employment training programs were analyzed to determine the level of use by African American males compared to White males ages 18 to 30. The analysis found that young African American males' participation in the majority of programs was higher than that of young White males. Male participation in these programs is relatively low compared to female participation overall.

Children and Family Services: Programs in Hennepin County

Office of Planning and Development

Data were analyzed from the Hennepin County Children Family and Adult Services Department by race to determine whether African American males participated in programs at a higher rate than White males. This analysis found that African American male participation was higher in each program studied.

Chemical Health Programs in Hennepin County

Office of Planning and Development

A number of chemical health programs were chosen for data analysis to compare participation and success rates between African American males and White males. Successful program completion rates were similar for both African Americans and Whites for most programs, suggesting similar program effectiveness.

Community Corrections Programs in Hennepin County Office of Planning and Development

Hennepin County has contracts with Operation Denovo, Portland House and La Opportunidad to provide services to criminal offenders. Data analysis was performed to determine the characteristics of clients of these programs and the rates of recidivism that these clients show after having completed the contracted programs. The analysis found that a higher proportion of African Americans participate in the chosen programs compared to Whites yet they are under-represented among those who are successful in obtaining assistance.

Economic Assistance Among African American Males

Dr. Samuel L. Myers, Jr.
Allan Malkis

Data from Hennepin County economic assistance programs were analyzed to determine whether African American males applied for and received assistance at rates consistent with other racial groups. The study found that African American males age 18 to 30 apply for assistance at greater rates than the general population for all programs, but their success rates vary depending on the given program.

Life Choices Facing African American Boys and Men

Office of Planning and Development

The systems that interface with young African American males are depicted in a flowchart of nonprofit support structures. The diagram shows that, while many social service programs exist through which this group may potentially receive services, the outcomes for these males are generally poor. Improved coordination among programs and more streamlined programming are offered as recommendations for improved outcomes in young African American males.

Rethinking Our Social Service Systems

Office of Planning and Development

Urban Ventures Leadership Foundation's Center for Fathering is an example of a program that operates within a fragmented social service system in Hennepin County. The program is used to demonstrate the issues surrounding the fragmentation of services that hinder successful outcomes for recipients of services.

Highlighting Existing and Model Programs

Office of Planning and Development

Several programs that currently operate in Hennepin County are highlighted in this section. In addition, ideas for potentially beneficial programs are described. These programs focus on academic achievement, community participation and criminal deterrence, among other issues.

The Economic Empowerment of African American Men

Michael Norman, Ed.D.

Proposed programs for the economic empowerment of young African American males are presented. The programs emphasize employment training and mentoring intended to provide participants with skills needed for successful permanent employment.

Brother Achievement/Public Achievement

Harry Boyte

Brother Achievement is a program modeled after Public Achievement groups. A Brother Achievement group established through the African American Men Project met weekly for the purpose of developing strategies to address pertinent social issues facing young African American males in their community.

X. MAPS

Criminal Justice Center

Racial-Ethnic Population Distribution and Change, 1990-2000.

Racial Composition of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits Households in 2000.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Seven County Region (Central Area); Weekday Bus Service Adjustment Recommendation, 2005, and Percentage of American Indian Population by Census Block Groups, 2000.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Seven County Region (Central Area); Weekday Bus Service Adjustment Recommendation, 2005, and Percentage of Asian-Pacific Islander Population by Census Block Groups, 2000

Minneapolis-St. Paul Seven County Region (Central Area); Weekday Bus Service Adjustment Recommendation, 2005, and Percentage of Black or African American Population by Census Block Groups, 2000

Minneapolis-St. Paul Seven County Region (Central Area); Weekday Bus Service Adjustment Recommendation, 2005, and Percentage of Hispanic or Latino Population by Census Block Groups, 2000

Minneapolis-St. Paul Seven County Region (Central Area); Weekday Bus Service Adjustment Recommendation, 2005, and Percentage of White Population by Census Block Groups, 2000

Latino/Hispanic Demographics in MN