"We hope these census numbers signal a new era of racial politics in our states, rooted not only in strong economies but also equalities for all people, " said Jennifer Allen, executive director of the human rights organization Border Action Network.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

According to the Rainforest Action Network, however, the injured ecosystem and human communities have not recovered and the spill continues to be the most damaging oil spill in history.

CNN: Conference to assess Exxon Valdez oil spill