Create a User Profile: Race and Ethnicity
This page provides a U.S. Web Design System pattern for collecting race and ethnicity information in user profiles in a way that respects identity, supports data standards, and promotes inclusion.
The “Race and ethnicity” pattern guidance explains why and how agencies should ask users about race and ethnicity—emphasizing that these are social constructs, not biological traits, and noting the importance of dignity and choice in data collection.
It lays out federal requirements (via OMB) for minimum race and ethnicity categories, while recommending more detailed options, multi-select checkboxes, open-ended self-identification, and a “prefer not to say” option. The guidance also advises on user experience best practices—such as explaining why the information is collected, allowing multiple selections, avoiding forced responses, and ensuring the question is only asked when needed.
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