America by the Numbers with Maria Hinojosa Season 1 Episode 1 Mainstream, USA (Pilot)
- TV-PG
- October 2, 2014
- 25 min
America by the Numbers with Maria Hinojosa is a documentary television series that explores the changing demographics of America. Hosted by award-winning journalist and news anchor Maria Hinojosa, the show takes a unique approach to storytelling by using data and statistics to paint a picture of America's diverse communities. In the first episode of season one, titled "Mainstream, USA (Pilot)," Hinojosa examines what it means to be "mainstream" in America and how that definition is changing.
Through interviews with demographers and experts on topics ranging from immigration to race and ethnicity, Hinojosa provides a nuanced view of a changing America. The episode begins with Hinojosa examining the small town of Clarkston, Georgia, which is home to a diverse population of refugees and immigrants. She notes that while Clarkston may not be considered mainstream by some, its citizens are working hard to integrate and contribute to their new communities.
Hinojosa also speaks with Steve Phillips, author of the book "Brown is the New White," about the changing demographics of the American electorate. Phillips argues that people of color and millennials can be a powerful force in American politics and that political campaigns need to adapt to these changing demographics if they want to be successful.
The episode also looks at the changing face of the American suburbs. Hinojosa visits the once-homogeneous town of Levittown, Pennsylvania, which was the model for post-World War II suburban development. Today, Levittown is home to a diverse population that includes African Americans, Latinos, and Asian Americans. Hinojosa speaks with residents about how the town has changed and what it means to be part of a diverse community.
Throughout the episode, Hinojosa uses data and statistics to illustrate how America is becoming more diverse. She notes that by 2044, people of color will make up the majority of the United States population. She also looks at the growing number of mixed-race families and how they are changing the way we think about race in America.
Overall, "Mainstream, USA (Pilot)" offers a thoughtful and thought-provoking look at the changing demographics of America. By using data and statistics to illuminate these changes, Hinojosa gives viewers a better understanding of the complex and diverse communities that make up our country.