Everyone Deserves to be Seen: Recommendations for Improved Federal Data on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI)

Abstract

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities are growing at a faster rate than any other racial group in the United States. The opportunity to address significant inequities impacting this community is hiding in our country’s postsecondary data. The report sets forth clear policy recommendations for Congress, federal, state, and local agencies, and institutions of higher education. The actionable recommendations look to the race and ethnicity categories used by the U.S. Census Bureau, which are informed by empirical research, collaboration between statistical agencies across the federal government, and engagement of diverse communities. This report is part of IHEP’s call for quality data to support evidence-based policymaking and close equity gaps in access to and success in postsecondary education.