2. Texas
Number of Racial Hate Crime Offenses: 642
Texas boasts the largest population of Black Americans among all states, with over 3.8 million individuals, constituting roughly 13% of the state’s total population. The state’s origins trace back to white men who were resolute in their quest to extend slavery westward, a contentious issue that ultimately ignited the Civil War. Texas holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people. Additionally, Texas often serves as a political bellwether in a nation marked by a lengthy history of racism, discrimination, and oppression. Despite these historical milestones, Black Texans are voicing their frustrations regarding uneven progress, limitations on discussing racism in public schools, as well as constraints on their political representation and access to voting.
Kzenon/Shutterstock.com
