Based on the latest census data, Irving’s population continues to reflect a wide range of nationalities. For many years, the 75038 zip code was touted as one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the country. Today, the latest results show further growth in diversity. The multicultural layers across the city are one of the greatest characteristics of the community, and the diverse tapestry also helps support a mix of unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in Irving.

Irving’s total population now exceeds 256,684, an increase of 18.6% from 2010. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Irving’s Hispanic population has increased, while the non-Hispanic white population has decreased, each about the same percentage of almost 20%. The African American population grew by 24% and the representation of Asian communities nearly doubled.

“Over the years, Irving has been blessed to be a place where people of all backgrounds, colors and creeds feel safe and welcome,” said Mayor Rick Stopfer. “I take great pride in being part of an inclusive community that embraces differences.”

Although the 2020 census does not report citizenship or nationality, the Census Bureau’s 2019 American Community Survey (ACS) reports that 61.6% of Irving residents are U.S. citizens by birth, while that 10% are foreign-born residents who are naturalized citizens. Additionally, the ACS reports that nearly 29% of current Irving residents are foreign nationals and nearly 40% of Irving residents were born in other countries including Mexico, El Salvador, India , Nepal, Korea and Pakistan.

CITY OF IRVING LEADERS INVEST IN DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

The City of Irving supports diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives through various community partnerships, programs and activities. From the Irving Miracle League and minority/businesswoman entrepreneurship programs to Shop Talk and Bilingual Story Times, the city strives to engage with a variety of people with varying interests.

The organization has a Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan to guide efforts and ensure the city provides access, removes barriers, and is inclusive of all community members and employees. To support the strategic plan, a D&I committee was formed to lead inclusive efforts for city employees, as well as the community.

Over the past two years, the D&I Committee has developed the Commitment to Fostering Diversity and Inclusion document following the May 2020 murder of George Floyd and hosted a virtual event for employees to open a conversation about social injustice. The team also organized three virtual cultural symposia on Hinduism and Diwali, Hispanic Heritage Month and Lunar New Year. The Employee Resource Group (ERG) policy was approved in 2021, leading to the formation of the LGBTQ ERG, which helped raise the city’s Municipal Equality Index score by 11 points. year over year, rising from 36 to 47 points.