Ethnic groups will make up half California's population next year

By next year, no racial group can call itself the majority in California.<br> <br>Researchers say half the Golden State's population will be white-- the lowest percentage since the Gold Rush. <br><br>The

Wednesday, October 20th 1999, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

By next year, no racial group can call itself the majority in California.

Researchers say half the Golden State's population will be white-- the lowest percentage since the Gold Rush.

The other half will be made up of Hispanics, Asians, blacks and American Indians.

The milestone comes five years earlier than previous Census Bureau estimates.

The racial picture will change even more in another 21 years.

Researchers project whites and Hispanics will each make up about 40 percent of the population. Asians will comprise 14 percent and blacks six percent