Texas needs to improve its approach to data disaggregation for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. This is particularly important because the accuracy of such data directly influences the funding and support that these communities receive from government programs. Despite the significance of this issue, AI/AN populations are frequently undercounted in federal and state surveys, leading to substantial consequences. For instance, the Department of Housing and Urban Development allocates around $650 million each year to more than 580 tribes via the Indian Housing Block Grant based on Census data. When AI/AN communities are underrepresented in these counts, they miss out on essential funding that could benefit their communities.
To address these discrepancies, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Policy Research Center, in partnership with various civil rights organizations, has developed policy recommendations aimed at improving data collection processes. These recommendations are crucial in ensuring that all Texans are accurately represented in data collection efforts.
Importantly, AI/AN communities possess a rich and enduring cultural heritage that significantly contributes to Texas’s cultural identity. Through their art, traditions, and advocacy, these communities showcase resilience and foster deep connections within their neighborhoods. As they continue to preserve their cultural identities and innovate, they symbolize pride and empowerment, embodying the spirit of resilience.
However, current methods of data collection, particularly those used in the 2023 American Community Survey (ACS), often fail to represent the diversity of Texans adequately. Many survey instruments rely on binary, cisgender categorizations, neglecting vital information about transgender and gender nonconforming populations. The racial and ethnic categories used also do not sufficiently represent the multiracial and multiethnic nature of Texas. Thus, it is essential that data collection practices evolve to embrace and reflect the various identities of all Texans, ensuring accuracy and inclusivity.
For those interested in advocacy and further information, contacting relevant organizations may provide additional resources and insights. The ongoing efforts to rectify these data disaggregation issues offer a hopeful outlook for achieving greater equity and representation for AI/AN communities in Texas.