The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

In this report:

Part I - Demographic Trends in Katrina-Affected Areas and Their Impact on the 2010 Census

Introduction

This section highlights available data on the demographic and economic conditions that are likely to affect the implementation and accuracy of the 2010 Census in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama communities hit hardest by the 2005 hurricanes.

A number of national and local researchers are engaged in monitoring and evaluating information from the U.S. Census Bureau, employment and school enrollment statistics, and data on construction, housing, and postal delivery data.  An excellent example is the New Orleans Index, currently being published periodically by GNOCDC and the Washington, D.C.-based Brookings Institution Metropolitan Policy Program. The most recent Index, published on July 31, 2009, provides an evolving portrait of a region struggling to regain its vitality and build a sustainable future against significant odds and bureaucratic obstacles. 

Our objective was not to duplicate this research or to conduct independent demographic assessments, but rather to focus on trends and conditions brought about or exacerbated by the 2005 storms that pose special challenges for the upcoming census.

It should be noted that available data cannot portray a fully up-to-date picture in light of the rapid changes that are taking place as the region's recovery and redevelopment comes up against the broader economic recession.  Some data discussed in this section are drawn from analysis of return rates for the 2000 census.  Other information is taken from the Census Bureau's annual in-depth American Community Survey.  The Census Bureau released its most recent population and housing unit for states and localities this summer.

Next Section: The Long-Term Demographic Impact of Katrina