Report: 4 in 10 Catholics have experienced racism

A national survey of 2,401 adult Catholics shows that 39% of respondents have experienced racial discrimination generally. The report, titled “Experiences of Race, Diversity, and Racism: A National Survey of Adult Catholics,” was released Oct. 26 by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA).

The survey found that 60% of adult Catholics in the United States believe racism exists within their local communities. Discrimination rates were higher among specific groups, including 66% of Black Catholics, 54% of Hispanic Catholics, and 54% of Asian Catholics. Additionally, 10% of those polled reported experiencing racial discrimination within their parish and 11% within Catholic education. Black Catholics reported higher rates of discrimination in both parishes and Catholic schools.

Researchers Mark M. Gray and Ali Mumbach conducted the survey between May 15 and June 30. Gray noted that the results suggest a connection between adult faith formation and an understanding of Church teachings regarding racism. The report was funded by the Sisters of Charity Ministry Foundation, the Jesuits USA East Province, the Sisters of the Precious Blood, the National Black Catholic Congress, and individual CARA donors.