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Oregon’s 2010 Census shows striking Latino and Asian gains
Wednesday, February 23, 2011, 9:19 PM
By Nikole Hannah-Jones

Oregon’s Latino population surged 63 percent in 10 years, largely fueling the state’s 12 percent growth since 2000, according to U.S. census figures released Wednesday.

The robust gains of Oregon’s Latino population is a story repeated across the country. Joined by a 41 percent increase in the state’s Asian population, the trend is helping turn what was once a starkly white state into an increasingly diverse one.

Overall, Oregon grew by 419,000 residents, with Latinos accounting for about 43 percent of that growth. The state’s white population increased 5 percent, its black population 22 percent and its Native American population 6 percent.

People identifying as more than one race grew 33 percent, making the number of Oregonians — about 110,000 — choosing the multiracial category larger than both black and Native combined.

Just 20 years ago, more than nine of 10 Oregonians were white. Today, it’s fewer than eight in 10. And Washington County has eclipsed Multnomah County as the metro area’s most racially diverse, with people of color accounting for three of 10 residents.

“It certainly represents a tremendous opportunity for the state,” said Michael Hames-Garcia, head of the University of Oregon’s ethnic studies department. “One of the disadvantages Oregon has faced economically and in competing for businesses in trying to attract top talent is that we don’t offer a diverse environment and diverse work force.”

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