The South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs’ Research and Planning Division exists to provide critical data and information for decision-making purposes. The Research Division seeks to assists the general public, public officials, the private sector, non-profit, and faith-based organizations with statistical data and analysis.
The goal of the Research Division is to both create and maintain a comprehensive database of statistics regarding each of the minority populations in which the Commission serves. In addition, the research staff is involved in conducting simple to complex research, public policy analysis, information dissemination and the development of publications which accurately reflect the current status of the minority populations in South Carolina.
The research conducted by the staff of the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs will provide ongoing statistical data, public policy analysis, and survey-based research. The research and related findings involve the following:
- To study the causes and effects of socioeconomic poverty and deprivation facing minorities;
- To provide statistical data and policy recommendations to state agencies and public officials to implement initiatives to alleviate such deprivation;
- To establish and maintain a database of statistical information for distribution to members of the General Assembly and other entities capable of effecting change;
- To serve as the State’s clearinghouse for minority statistical information and to publish a Statewide statistical abstract on minority affairs;
- To provide communities with a single point of contact to obtain raw data and information necessary for local research and planning;
- To develop and make available on an as-needed basis specialized statistical publications, raw data, analysis and findings in cooperation with state agencies, public officials, and the general public
The Quarterly Research Report provides the latest analysis of topics that are of interest to policymakers, practitioners, researchers, government agencies, colleges/universities and the general public. If you have any questions concerning the research methodology, contact Dr. Robert Fenton, Director of Research, at rfenton@cma.sc.gov.
2025 Quarterly Research Report
June 2025
Breaking the Silence: Data-Driven Insights and Awareness into Maternal Health in South Carolina's Lowcountry
In this brief, Statistical and Research Analyst Alicia Paige explores how doulas and midwives can play a critical role in addressing and reducing maternity care gaps in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. Drawing on data analysis from health care and support professionals, the report examines the intersection of race, reproductive health, and healthcare access to highlight the value of culturally responsive, community-based care. Together the findings highlight an urgent need for targeted investment in maternal health and community-based care to ensure that all women receive the comprehensively compassionate treatment they deserve. (DOWNLOAD PDF)
Coming to South Carolina: Socio-Economic Dynamics and the State's Foreign-Born Population from 2013 to 2023
Over the past decade, South Carolina has experienced rapid population growth, consistently ranking among the top ten states in the United States. This demographic surge has coincided with significant economic expansion, driven by industrial relocation, new business formation, and major investments in infrastructure to support continued development. In this brief, Research Director Dr. Robert P. Fenton assesses what contribution immigrants have made to the economic growth of South Carolina over this last decade. (DOWNLOAD PDF)
January 2025
Cost Burdens Affecting Housing Affordability for Minority Households in South Carolina
With this publication, the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs (CMA) continues a series on cost-burdened households in South Carolina. The most recent economic data for South Carolina underscores the continued rapid growth in housing expenses. In fact, due to the prevalence of negative economic indicators we found a reason to further research the available data to reveal trends and probabilities that could be of interest to personal and policy decisions in avoiding or preventing cost-burdened living arrangements. By shifting the focus from supply-and-demand issues to the factors affecting individuals and communities, this research aims to identify indicators that can signal potential housing affordability risks. By understanding these factors, individuals and communities can proactively assess their situation and implement strategies to mitigate cost-burden and can also improve the role of community institutions and local support networks in assisting households in need. (DOWNLOAD PDF)
The South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs focuses on research and resources for the communities we serve. Our research team is compiling a statistical profile that will highlight the socio-economic and demographic impact of the rapidly growing Hispanic populations on the state of South Carolina. Our goal is to provide the community and its stakeholders with information on the socioeconomic development of the highly diverse Hispanic/Latino communities, in order to help move them forward. Help us share the many stories and faces of the Latino community in South Carolina by filling out our questionnaire.
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The South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs' Small and Minority Business Division has released a survey to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on small, minority-owned businesses in South Carolina. This survey will be used to inform future policy initiatives and current and future funding allocations from state and federal resources. Participation in this survey is vital in guiding our priorities and providing direction for upcoming events and activities. Submissions will remain anonymous. The survey is available in English and Spanish.
English: https://bit.ly/3ziWztt
Spanish: https://bit.ly/3zsoO9d
