SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah State University Utah Women & Leadership Project, UWLP, researched the experiences of Utah women and girls, focusing on Latina women in Utah. 

According to UWLP, the project used the U.S. Census description for Hispanic or Latinx; “a person of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin, regardless of race.”

UWLP collected data from five categories: general demographics, health, basic needs, education, and income and employment.

“Using these data to create policies that support all Utah residents, including Latina women, can strengthen Utah’s workplaces, educational institutions, communities, and the state as a whole,” Susan Madsen, founding director of the UWLP said.

Data on Latina women in Utah from UWLP

In Utah, Latinas are less likely to have health insurance when compared to other women in Utah. And Latinas report less access to medical care. 

Also, they are less likely to have internet access, according to UWLP. 

Since the beginning of the pandemic, they have reported slightly more concern about violence at home. UWLP said that 21 out of 183 women indicated concern. 

When compared to all Utah women, Latinas are more likely to end high school without a diploma. Also, they earn bachelor’s degrees at a lower rate compared to all Utah women. 

Mirroring national trends, Utah Latina’s medium personal income rate is lower than Utah women’s. Additionally, UWLP reports Latina women are less likely to be in a professional position. 

Why the research matters 

UWLP said researching disparities between minority groups and the white population helps determine current needs in all social and identity groups. Furthermore, it aids local and state decision-makers take attention. 

“As we provide greater access and opportunity to all residents, the state can use these data to better use the talents, ideas, and resources Latina women offer the state, employers, and Utah families,” said Jessica C. Hill, a report author from Utah Valley University. 

Read more: 

• BYU committee on race and diversity releases 26 recommendations to help ‘root out racism’
• ABC suspends Whoopi Goldberg over Holocaust race remarks