AAPI Nexus: Policy, Practice and Community

This article discusses the demographic trends that Asian Americans face and how it shapes civil rights issues. The decennial census is the most important aspect of this study. The census has become a tool for social and economic data and therefore influences the outcomes of policy legislation and political discourse. The census influence extends far beyond the political realm as it also helps private companies target potential markets. The census, however, also has critical flaws that need to be addressed to better represent demographic patterns. Asian Americans are an immigrant-dominated population, which affects political participation and voting rights. There is evidence for unequal access to public education, employment, and housing given to Asian Americans.