The State of Black California began as a report commissioned and published by the California Legislative Black Caucus in 2008 in partnership with Dr. Michael Stoll, to document and address the social and economic realities facing Black Californians. What began as a groundbreaking report has now evolved into a long-term research and policy initiative dedicated to using data to expose inequities, track progress, and inform strategies for justice and opportunity.
The State of Black California (SOBC) project offers a powerful, data-driven examination of the social, economic, and political forces shaping Black life across the state. The 2024 SOBC report, based on a comparative analysis spanning two decades, reveals enduring inequities and provides policymakers with insights to develop evidence-based strategies that drive equity, opportunity, and thriving futures for Black Californians.
Between major reports, the Bunche Center continues to advance the work through new research publications and the biennial State of Black California Conference, which brings together scholars, policymakers, advocates, and community leaders to translate data into action and shape the future of Black California.
