Watch the census web site for periodic updates at www.census.gov/main/www/cen2000.html . Demographic data to accurately determine the number of immigrants and refugees in the St. Louis region is currently sketchy, since only brief information is now available from the census "short form."

For instance, those filling out the short form selected "Race" but could not select "Ethnicity" or "Country of Birth." Therefore, solid numbers are not available for Bosnians who are currently included in the "White" numbers under Race or for Ethiopians who will appear in the "Black or African American" racial category. Also, the "Two or More Races" category is new to the 2000 census, so data analysis between 1990 and 2000 involving racial categories will be skewed.

Other Information Sources:

Check the on-line archives of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. An article, "Refugees may represent 10 pct. of city's population…" (Feb. 24, 2001) may be helpful and is available to download for a small fee. Also, during fall 2000 and spring early 2001, P-D reporters produced several pieces analyzing the initial 2000 census data.

While the International Institute maintains additional statistics as well as projections of new arrivals/ethnic community growth, the information is available only to formal project collaborators or on a consulting basis (fees apply). Inquiries should be directed to the relevant key staff member of the agency.