The future of American diversity: A new look at how shifting demographics are shaping the nation

The diversity of the American people is continuing to expand, with significant implications across demographics, growth, policy, and elections. As white Americans age and retire from the labor force, the nation will depend on a new generation of young people—over half of whom now identify as a racial minority—to support the economy and grow the population. Already, the nation’s “new minorities” of Hispanic, Asian, and multiracial Americans are responsible for the bulk of its population growth—a trend that will continue regardless of future immigration levels.

On Wednesday, September 30, Brookings held an event to mark the release of the third edition of Senior Fellow William H. Frey’s book, “Diversity Explosion: How New Racial Demographics Are Remaking America.” Frey presented his findings on America’s growing diversity and how it’s shaping the country, using the latest data from the census, national surveys, and presidential elections. Afterward, an expert panel discussed what these trends mean for the future of American people, places, and policymaking.