Iowa In Focus: Understanding Systemic Racism In Iowa
Screenshot from Mapping Inequality
White Iowans own their homes at nearly three times the rate of Black Iowans, one of the biggest racial homeownership gaps in the country. Nationally, this gap is wider than it was 50 years ago, because discriminatory housing policies and practices of the past and present are still hurting Black families and their ability to build generational wealth.
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This week IPR is featuring a series of reports about systemic racism in Iowa. Iowa Public Radio's Morning Edition host Clay Masters kicks off the series by talking about the history of systemic racism in the state with Iowa-Nebraska NAACP President Betty Andrews. -
In 1868, Iowa was the first state to desegregate its public schools. But many schools essentially remained segregated for more than a century after. And it’s still noticeable today. -
African Americans are less likely than others across Iowa to be self-employed. Those who do have their own businesses are more likely to experience unequal access to bank services and loans, adding to an opportunity gap across the state. -
Black women in Iowa are six times more likely to die during or shortly after childbirth than white women, and the reasons why are complicated. But this well-documented disparity also shows the role systemic racism plays in our entire health care system. -
Thirteen former University of Iowa football players have filed a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination by the coaching staff, which they say interfered with their ability to earn a high quality education.
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Starting next month, some Linn County defendants accused of possessing small amounts of marijuana may be able to avoid a criminal record, under a new diversion program. But there are concerns the program's restrictions may reinforce racial disparities.
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After backing Joe Biden in 2020, Asian American voters in Nevada swung decisively toward Donald Trump in 2024. Now, they reflect on how his presidency is going so far. -
Two majority Black cities in Alabama now have Black representation in Congress because of court-ordered redistricting. The progress comes as President Trump pulls back federal diversity initiatives.
