In collaboration with UC Santa Cruz Institute for Social Transformation (Gabriella Alvarez and Chris Benner), Action Council of Monterey County, Monterey County Black Caucus, and New Hope Baptist Church
January 2025
Executive Summary
This report presents a picture of the demographics, socioeconomic status, and challenges faced by African American residents in Monterey and San Benito Counties. The analysis reveals notable issues related to education, employment, income, health coverage, and housing conditions. Key findings include high rates of institutionalization, low educational attainment relative to other racial groups, particular low home ownership rates and high housing burden rates, and significant income disparities. These insights underscore the need for targeted community interventions to improve the economic and social well-being of African American residents in the region.
The findings highlight the need for tailored targeted interventions in various domains, including efforts to reduce incarceration and providing education and workforce development for institutionalized individuals, income support for low-income families, job creation focused on industries employing African American residents, improved healthcare access, and initiatives to support affordable housing and homeownership. This report serves as a foundation for developing strategies aimed at enhancing the quality of life for African American residents in Monterey and San Benito Counties, fostering greater equity and opportunity within the community.
The Institute for Social Transformation and Monterey County Black Caucus will be conducting further in-depth research to help inform such efforts in the near future.
Click below to download the report
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