If it seems like the distinctions between race and ethnicity are confusing, unsatisfying or unclear, you’re onto something. These categories are messy and lack concrete definitions.

Census categories for race and ethnicity have shaped how the nation sees itself. Here’s how they have changed over the last 230 years.

The U.S. Census Bureau will have new categories for race and ethnicity for the first time in 27 years, directly affecting people who identify as Hispanic, Latino, Middle Eastern and North African.

In making any changes to the way race and ethnicity are measured, the working group and the chief statistician will need to strike a balance between reflecting the ways Americans choose to ...

ORLANDO, Fla. — For the first time in 27 years, the U.S. government is changing how it categorizes people by race and ethnicity, an effort that federal officials believe will more accurately ...

If you’ve ever filled out a Census form, a college application or a patient questionnaire at the doctor’s office, you’ve probably been asked to identify your race and ethnicity.