Is Bellingham, WA considered a "white" city?

Bellingham, WA is considered a "white" city because over 84% of its population identifies as white alone, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This is significantly higher than the national average of 76.3% of people who identify as white alone.

There are a number of factors that may contribute to the high percentage of white residents in Bellingham. One factor is the city's history. Bellingham was founded in 1853 by European settlers, and it remained a predominantly white community for many years. In the early 20th century, Bellingham experienced a period of rapid growth, due in part to the construction of the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. This growth attracted a number of new residents to the city, many of whom were white.

Another factor that may contribute to the high percentage of white residents in Bellingham is the city's economy. Bellingham is a college town, home to Western Washington University. The university attracts a number of students and faculty from all over the country, many of whom are white. Additionally, Bellingham is a major center for tourism, and the city's economy benefits from the influx of white tourists.

The high percentage of white residents in Bellingham has a number of implications for the city. One implication is that the city's government and institutions are likely to be dominated by white people. This can lead to policies and decisions that favor white residents over residents of other races and ethnicities.

Is Bellingham White?

Bellingham, Washington is a city with a complex racial history. While the majority of its population is white, there is a significant and growing population of people of color. This diversity is reflected in the city's culture, politics, and economy.

Demographics: Bellingham is a majority-white city, with 84.2% of the population identifying as white alone. However, the city is becoming increasingly diverse, with the population of people of color growing rapidly.
History: Bellingham was founded in 1853 by European settlers, and it remained a predominantly white community for many years. In the early 20th century, Bellingham experienced a period of rapid growth due to immigration from Europe. During World War II there was a large influx of African Americans who came to work in the shipyards.
Culture: Bellingham is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a variety of cultural institutions, including the Whatcom Museum, the Bellingham Art Museum, and the Mount Baker Theatre.
Politics: Bellingham is a politically progressive city. The city has a history of supporting social justice and environmental causes. In recent years, Bellingham has become a sanctuary city for undocumented immigrants.
Economy: Bellingham's economy is based on a variety of industries, including tourism, manufacturing, and education. The city is also home to a number of technology companies.
Education: Bellingham is home to Western Washington University, a public research university with an enrollment of over 15,000 students. The city also has a number of community colleges and private schools.
Transportation: Bellingham is located on the I-5 corridor, which makes it easily accessible by car. The city also has a public transportation system that includes buses and a ferry.

The key aspects of Bellingham's racial history and demographics are complex and interconnected. The city's history of immigration and settlement has shaped its present-day racial makeup. Bellingham is a city that is still in the process of becoming more diverse, and it is likely that the city's racial demographics will continue to change in the years to come.

FAQs about Bellingham, WA

Some common questions about "is Bellingham white" and Bellingham's racial demographics include:

Question 1: Is Bellingham a diverse city?

Yes, Bellingham is becoming increasingly diverse, with a growing population of people of color. However, the city is still majority-white, with 84.2% of the population identifying as white alone.

Question 2: Why is Bellingham so white?

There are a number of factors that have contributed to Bellingham's high percentage of white residents, including its history as a predominantly white community and its economy.

Question 3: What is the racial makeup of Bellingham?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the racial makeup of Bellingham is as follows:

White: 84.2%
Asian: 7.5%
Hispanic or Latino: 6.3%
Black or African American: 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4%
Two or more races: 3.0%

Question 4: Is Bellingham a welcoming city for people of color?

Bellingham is a welcoming city for people of all races and ethnicities. The city has a number of resources and organizations dedicated to supporting people of color, including the Bellingham Human Rights Commission and the Whatcom County Diversity Coalition.

Question 5: What is the future of race relations in Bellingham?

The future of race relations in Bellingham is difficult to predict. However, the city is committed to becoming more diverse and inclusive. In 2019, the Bellingham City Council adopted a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis. The resolution commits the city to taking steps to address racial disparities in Bellingham.

Summary: Bellingham is a complex and diverse city with a rich racial history. The city is still in the process of becoming more diverse, and it is likely that the city's racial demographics will continue to change in the years to come.

Next article section: The history of race relations in Bellingham.

Conclusion

The question of "is Bellingham white" is a complex one with no easy answer. The city's racial demographics are constantly changing, and it is likely that the city will become more diverse in the years to come. However, it is important to remember that Bellingham is still a majority-white city, and this has a number of implications for the city's government, institutions, and economy.

It is important for Bellingham to continue to work towards becoming a more inclusive and equitable city. This means addressing the racial disparities that exist in the city and creating a more welcoming environment for people of color. Bellingham has a long history of social justice activism, and the city is committed to becoming a more just and equitable community for all.