September 30, 2004

Wayne Co. minorities soar

Minorities are fueling the population growth of Southeast Michigan and the minority population has become the majority in Wayne County, according to just-released census data. Researchers say the trend is largely driven by birth and migration patterns. Oakland County\'s largest percentage gains came in the Asian population, with Asian Indians and Chinese leading the way, according to Wayne State demographer Kurt Metzger. He explains that many Asians come to work for high-tech companies. Wayne County\'s Hispanic population grew 10.7 percent from 2000 to 2003. \"One of the attractions is the lower cost of living here,\" said WSU history professor Jose Cuello. He said the majority minority factor does not have great significance yet in terms of politics or culture.

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