Census data suggests . . .

Here is something to think about from Daniel Pink’s blog related to the recent census.

Today, while 19.9% of Americans over 65 are racial minorities, 48.3% of kids under age 5 are.

Now imagine the complexion of this country 40 years from now, when (most of) those older folks are gone and (most of) those youngsters are in charge.

The article he sites contains some additional interesting information and links to other sites. For example, minorities make up more than half the population in about 10% of the counties nationwide, in four states and the District of Columbia, and in more than 500 counties there is a majority of minority children.

Nationally, we are moving towards a society where no group will be classified as a majority. These numbers are significantly different than we find in the communities making up our school system, yet we share the responsibility to prepare our young people for that world. We have a diversity committee that has been quietly meeting for three years to assist us in understanding how to embrace diversity and make ALL our students feel welcome and safe. We are also creating a focus on global citizenship in our curriculum to prepare students for working nationally and internationally with groups. These efforts are a start, but we have much yet to do. Critical in this effort will be the inclusion of the student, parent, and community voice. Sounds like another reason to consider a One Community initiative.

I’ll leave one last question for consideration. What will it be like in fifteen plus years when the 48.3% of kids comprising racial minorities currently under age five, are of voting age?