Thurgood Marshall College Fund Releases Annual Report on Black Thriving

Washington, D.C., Sept. 11, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Gallup have released the fourth annual "Black Thriving in America" report, which offers a comprehensive look at the wellbeing of Black Americans. This year's report, titled "Black Thriving in America: 2026," marks an evolution in scope and analytical depth, placing U.S. data within a global context for the first time. The report compares U.S. wellbeing data with Gallup's World Poll across approximately 140 countries and territories.

Dr. Harry L. However, the data reveal a more complex narrative.

A seven-point gender gap has emerged between Black men and Black women, a divide that did not exist in 2023. Additionally, Black seniors, who led all groups in thriving at 64% in 2023, have fallen to 53%. In the workplace, Black college graduates are now less likely than their non-graduate counterparts to report being treated with respect or having their opinions count.

The report also highlights that nearly one-third of Black adults report being treated unfairly while shopping or in healthcare settings. These figures have risen since last year and remain multiples higher than those reported by other groups. The findings underscore the ongoing challenges faced by the Black community, particularly in areas of respect and dignity.

To recognize outstanding contributions to research, Justice Albie Sachs and Nobel laureate Sir Angus Deaton were honored as co-recipients of the inaugural Jim Clifton Prize for Research Impact. The prize, named in honor of Gallup Chairman Jim Clifton, recognizes a career or body of work that has expanded the frontiers of knowledge and translated evidence into tangible improvements in human thriving, opportunity, and dignity.

The report, available at tmcfpayne.org, provides a detailed analysis of the wellbeing of Black Americans, offering insights that can inform policy and community initiatives. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund, established in 1987, is the nation's largest organization exclusively representing the Black college community. Through scholarships, capacity building, and research initiatives, the organization aims to support and empower Black students and institutions.

The report's findings are a call to action, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address the challenges faced by Black Americans and to promote thriving and equitable opportunities for all.