Civil Rights News: Save Census Bureau’s Community Survey; Prejudice Found Against Blacks, Mormons; Funds for College Shrinking

Compiled by Rachel Barr, a Summer 2012 Leadership Conference Education Fund Intern

Save the American Community Survey
Editorial
USA Today

USA Today argues for the necessity of the American Community Survey. The fate of the ACS, an annual piece of the Census sent out to three million households every year, now sits in the hands of Congress. The survey provides valuable information to the government about population trends so that it can most effectively divide the $400 billion dollars worth of funds it annually provides to states for roads, healthcare, and other programs. House Republicans argue that the survey is an invasion of privacy and too costly, while others believe the survey is necessary for making sure government spending is equitably allocated.

Mormons, African Americans face substantial prejudice, poll finds
Scott Clement
The Washington Post

The Post reports on the still prevalent prejudice against African Americans and Mormons. According to the new poll, 20 percent of voters would be uncomfortable with a Mormon marrying into their family, and 14 percent would not be comfortable with an African American marrying in. Since President Obama was elected, however, perceived discrimination against African Americans has dropped significantly.

College costs shifting to students, Sallie Mae survey finds
Ylan Q. Mui
The Washington Post

According to a recent study by Sallie Mae, students are are now borrowing more and making out-of-pocket contributions. Undergraduates are paying for 30 percent of the cost of college by themselves, the highest percentage in the last four years. The study also shows that scholarship and grant funding for college expenses have decreased in the past year. With student loan debt now surpassing that of credit card debt in the United States, it is becoming increasingly more difficult for Americans to afford a higher education.