The United States Census Bureau estimated the nation's population grew by 10 million people between 1970 and 1975; 85% of this growth occurred in the 29 states which constitute the South and West. These states attracted large numbers of new residents, growing at a much faster rate than the national average of 4.8%. During this five year period, Arizona was the fastest growing state with an increase of 25% in population. Also more blacks moved to the southern states than left. While the rate of inmigration accelerated especially in the Deep South, the large metropolitan areas of the Southwest also registered significant increases in numbers and percentages of black citizens. The status of blacks in the Southwest is reflected in the conditions of blacks generally. While conditions"have" improved in many aspects, "basic" conditions have not changed substantially for large segments of the black population. This paper discusses the current status of blacks in the Southwest. Topics covered are their political, economic, and social conditions; the economic conditions in the central cities, i.e., Watts in south Los Angeles; and their education. (Author/NQ)