This year's official census form has 12 different race options, plus the opportunity to write in another race not listed as a choice. This is the first time the multiracial option has been available since the census began in 1790. Since the 1990 census, the typical categories did not seem appropriate for how people see themselves. She said blended families are becoming more common in the United States. Creighton Gaynor, adviser for the Richardson Court Association's Multicultural Action Group, said the new option is a positive change.
People appreciate the fact that they can represent both their mother and father's race.
Organizers decided a changed was needed. Some had concerns about the categories and felt there was a need for expansion. They needed some type of multiracial divisions. Joseph Hraba, professor of sociology, who teaches a course titled Ethnic and Race Relations, said the mixed answer option is a good alternative. It's our reality that there is a growing number of people of mixed ethnicity.