Examining the Role of Race and Sector of Employment in Public Participation

Abstract

With the racial gap in political-electoral participation well established in the U.S., less is known about racial disparities in other forms of public engagement in governance. This study examines racial differences across nine distinct public participation strategies. It also investigates racial disparities in participation across public, nonprofit, and for-profit sector employees. Regressions conducted using five waves of the Current Population Survey Civic Engagement Supplement suggest that Black and White Americans participate in governance in different ways: Blacks opt for less formal and less costly forms of participation, with ramifications for the diversity of voices included in policy design and implementation. However, contrary to our theoretical expectations, the racial disparities are more pronounced among government employees than among employees in other sectors. Public institutions should create more inclusive opportunities for participation, minimize burdens, and provide incentives for engagement among minorities.