Catholics Report Widespread Racial Discrimination

A new survey finds that 39 percent of adult U.S. Catholics have personally experienced racial discrimination.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Catholicism

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a soaring stone archway, representing institutional space and community reflection in a minimalist aesthetic. — A CARA survey indicates that 39 percent of U.S. Catholics have faced racial discrimination, revealing a significant disconnect in parish-level discourse. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe your religious institution is doing enough to address racism within its community?

A national survey conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate reveals that 39 percent of U.S. adult Catholics have faced racial discrimination. Additionally, 60 percent of respondents believe racism is present within their own local communities.

Why it matters

The findings highlight a significant gap between the belief that racism is sinful, held by 74 percent of Catholics, and the frequency of church-based discussions on the issue. Only 28 percent of respondents reported hearing a homily on racism in the past year, while nearly half expressed a desire for more formal instruction.

Researchers surveyed 2,401 self-identified Catholics, with data adjusted to align with General Social Survey estimates. Respondents also indicated that 10 percent have faced discrimination within their parish, and 11 percent in Catholic education.

The players

Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate

This Georgetown University-based research center provides social scientific data on the Catholic Church.

The details

The data shows that experiences of discrimination vary significantly across demographics, with Black, Hispanic, and Asian Catholics reporting higher rates than the national average. Despite widespread theological consensus that racism is wrong, the findings suggest a disconnect in how these issues are addressed at the parish level.

Researchers conducted the national survey from May 15 to June 30, 2026.
The report findings were released on October 26, 2026.

Culture Shift

This study aligns with the broader institutional focus on racial reconciliation found in the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops pastoral letter on racism, Open Wide Our Hearts. The findings provide empirical context that underscores the challenge of implementing such directives within parish life.

The report suggests that many parishioners may be seeking more guidance from their clergy regarding social issues. Readers might find themselves discussing these findings within their own parish communities or with local church leadership.

The takeaway

The study underscores a growing demand among lay Catholics for clearer teaching on racial justice from the pulpit. Engaging in dialogue at the parish level could help bridge the gap between shared moral beliefs and the lived reality of diverse congregants.