Labor force issues do not take place in a vacuum. Most individuals base labor force decisions on a multitude of cultural and social factors, such as the environment in which they were reared, family obligations and responsibilities, divorce or the death of a spouse, or because of governmental policies. Sections in this document on demographics, labor force, and business ownership examine information on the social and economic characteristics of Blacks, American Indians, and Asians in Oregon to obtain a better understanding of the relationships of these characteristics to choices made in the workforce. Substantial differences exist among the three groups with respect to educational achievement, marital status, and high school drop-out rates. In turn, the groups exhibit substantial differences in occupational choice, average hourly wage, and unemployment rates. It must also be recognized that Oregon's racial minorities differ with respect to the importance of education, career success, and financial reward. For example, American Indians who choose to stay on a reservation are indicating that their traditional culture and family relationships are more important than a secure job in the city. For these individuals, the challenge is even greater than that of the rest of Oregon's rural population: finding economic opportunities without losing cultural values or ties to family and friends. Profiles of individuals in each group are presented. (Contains 13 references, 11 tables, and 27 graphs.) (TD)