Partial Theory (I also agree with the city slicker theory): Same reason we do not have a lot of black members on the BBQ forums. I was a little apprehensive about joining BBQ forums earlier this year (join some, but never stayed for more than a coupla weeks), because I knew I could hear some uncomfortable discussions from folks who rightfully/wrongfully are stereotyped as "rednecks."
However, I got a few friends who consider themselves "rednecks" and I get along with them just fine.
Additionally, I bought a home 2.5 years ago in a rural area and had the same aforementioned apprehension. I got over it after a month or so of meeting the neighbors and such. Now it will be easier/more comfortable for another black family to move to the area.
I also was reluctant about competing, but Mista has got me feening to enter a comp or two. So, as more folks like Mista and me get out there the more black folks will join as well.
BTW: I do feel at home here and stayed on because the day after I joined I realized Mista was like me. Remember the Spaghetti porn thread started by Joe in May.
http://www.bbq-brethren.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17531
Mista said Joe's spaghetti was "white folks spaghetti" and then folks like Hodedo, Fat Daddy, Qman, Sledneck and few others said they must be black because they make black folk spaghetti too. Well that's the day, I knew I was in the right place for me.
Just my .02, thanks for listening!