This report is  a framework for a general understanding of Asian American concerns and opportunities to include them in broader civic dialogue. It is designed for local leaders and civic groups on how they can build their infrastructure and leadership around this issue. Click here to download report.

Few cities are prepared for the influx of minorities — particularly Asian Americans, the second-fastest growing minority in the country. With populations growing over 100% in places such as Raleigh, NC or Delaware County, OH, local leaders need to become more aware—and very quickly—as America becomes a minority-majority.

Starting in 2004, Partners for Livable Communities partnered with the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS) and the City of Houston to better understand the impact of the growing number of Asian Americans in cities across the nation and the multi-layered and complex issues facing this group.  Together, under the initiative “Cities in Transition,” this partnership asked how cities can prepare their leadership and infrastructure for their changing communities.  This group researched available data, including reports documenting the trends in Asian American communities and other ethnic groups, conferences and forums, newspaper articles, academic papers, U.S. Census data, and other original source materials, and had discussions with a sample group of community leaders to discuss topics of relevance to Asian Americans.

The report:

• Shatters the “model minority” myth
• Provides a general understanding of Asian Americans and their concerns
• Gives the need-to-know steps and key opportunities that can be taken in order to integrate this diverse group into their civic conversation
• Features models in practice - Provides organizations of reference and further resources