According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there are more Filipinos than Japanese in Hawaii. Filipinos represent the largest ethnic group in the state based on single-race or ancestry reporting, marking a significant demographic shift.
Hawaii's Changing Demographics
The demographic landscape of Hawaii has evolved over the decades. Historically, Japanese Americans comprised the largest single ethnic group in the islands for many years. However, data from the 2010 U.S. Census indicated a notable change, with the Filipino population surpassing the Japanese population. This shift reflects ongoing immigration patterns and diverse population growth within the state.
2010 U.S. Census Data for Hawaii's Major Ethnic Groups
The following table highlights the populations of key Asian ethnic groups in Hawaii as recorded in the 2010 U.S. Census:
| Group | Population | Percent of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Filipino | 197,497 | 14.5% |
| Japanese | 185,502 | 13.6% |
| Chinese | 54,955 | 4.0% |
| Korean | 24,203 | 1.8% |
Source: 2010 U.S. Census Data
This data clearly shows that the Filipino population exceeded the Japanese population by over 10,000 individuals at that time.
Significance of the Demographic Shift
The ascendancy of Filipinos as the largest ethnic group in Hawaii underscores the dynamic nature of the state's multicultural society. This demographic change has implications for various aspects of Hawaiian life, including cultural influence, economic contributions, and political representation. It highlights the continued importance of diverse immigrant communities in shaping the unique identity of Hawaii.
For further details on this demographic change, you can explore more from Honolulu Civil Beat.
