A New York Times Survey: MENA in the Census






 

 

“Hello,
We have published our piece about how people of Middle Eastern and North African descent in the U.S. identify. Here is a gift link to the story so you can read it and share with others.

Thank you again for taking time to participate in the callout and sharing your viewpoint with us.

Best,
The New York Times”

Read the article for free here.


I was invited by the New York Times to take a survey about how I identify. Basically, on the Census, or any chance I get, I check the box that says "Black/ African American." For me, that is the most accurate description. I am African American. When I go home to visit my brothers and family I go to Africa. Morocco is North Africa. Not the Middle East. Morocco is further west than England.

The US Census sees North Africans and Mideastern Arabs as Caucasian AKA White. Is this an awkwardly-handed gift of White privilege? It works to boost their numbers. That's why I won't participate. The "Black/African American" numbers need to be boosted.

I don't get to pass for White with White Americans and have nothing to do with their culture. I did grow up with White people. Yet I wasn't exactly one of them. Within my friends, yeah I was one of the gang. But when traveling with White friends I was the one pulled aside for questioning at the border. It still happens.

I was naive and did not understand why I was seen as different until I chose to study in Paris where the authorities know what a North African face and name looks like, better than the American border patrol. The Americans just see a dark guy. In Paris I was detained for searches on the train, in public, and at the airport. The police department had me check in regularly to fill out paperwork and answer questions. They wanted to make sure I didn't try to move there.

When I returned to the United States I was better equipped to recognize White confusion. "Where are you from?" And "Your name is so unique." And "I just have never heard of someone named Youssef." or "Do you know Yusef Lateef?"

Why does the Census want to know which part of Africa I represent? For statistics reasons? I stand with all of Africa. The NYT proposal is interesting. Add a box on the Census for SWANA or MENA, but again it's divisive. Why does the Census want to break North Africa from Central Africa, West Africa, East Africa, or South Africa? I will still want to check the box that says "Black/African American." Yes. Count me in with Black and African American Peoples. Please.

Africa holds immense beauty and power, with vibrant cultures and rich resources. Sadly, colonial powers carved Africa into fragmented pieces, easier to exploit and control. These divisions fostered conflict and instability, serving those who sought to maintain power, and their legacy lingers today, in the oddest places. Yet, the dream of a united Africa, a force for good in the world, remains a powerful aspiration.


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I am going to read in a SWANA event in SF on March 21. I will tell you more about the details soon, on this blog. In the meantime, take advantage of the free article link. It's thought provoking.



Libraries, Literature, Loss

Paris kept me busy these past few months. Family reasons and personal studies brought me there, but sadness struck with the passing of my beloved aunt Najia (bsmillah). She's deeply missed, especially by my uncle Serge who's heartbroken. I spent her final days with her and Serge at the hospital.

On a brighter note, I participated in a few Anglophone/expat reading events around town. European audiences are fantastic - really engaged and enjoyable. Plus, I managed to sell a few books, which was a nice surprise.

Studied at Richelieu and Mitterand national libraries of France. Also got to see both my brothers... in Paris and in Marrakech!

Overall, a bittersweet experience. Loss is never easy, but finding connection through literature and supportive readers overseas offered a welcome balance.

A few photos below, but more on my insta

 




Clouds ate the top of the Tour Eiffel with the original Statue of Liberty on the Isle des Cygnes in front.

Sacré Coeur by night.


BnF Mitterand hallway

Research halls at BnF Mitterand


Courtyard of BnF Richelieu


Othmane and I in Marrakech





Cast of Marquis de Sade's skull and actual manuscript of 120 Days of Sodom composed in the Bastille.


Poetry Out Loud San Luis Obispo County Finals

I am proud to announce my participation as a judge for the upcoming San Luis Obispo County Poetry Out Loud finals. It is my belief that studying poetry in school is valuable, but fostering a personal connection with the art of composing poems is an even more enriching modality of empowerment. Therefore, serving as a judge in this competition is an honor.

Poetry Out Loud is a national program that empowers high school students by encouraging them to memorize and recite classic and contemporary poems. It provides them with a unique opportunity to develop their public speaking skills, deepen their understanding of language, and connect with the power of words.

I am excited to witness the talent and dedication of the students competing in the finals. They have undoubtedly put in a lot of hard work to prepare, and my fellow judges and I are eager to hear them share their passion for poetry.

During my youth, I immersed myself in English, American, Senegalese, Cameroonian, and French literature. My graduate studies further expanded my understanding, encompassing classical Arabic poems, Spanish odes, and contemporary Moroccan poetry. I have actively participated in, organized, and witnessed poetry readings of all kinds from private salon readings to workshops, regional festivals, and worldwide slam competitions.

As a judge, I will be seeking students who demonstrate a clear understanding of the poems they recite, coupled with the ability to connect with the audience through their performance. Passion for poetry and the ability to convey it to others are qualities I will highly value.

Poetry Out Loud is a remarkable program with the potential to profoundly impact young lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it and look forward to helping select the next San Luis Obispo County champion.

Click the graphic for more info:

san luis obispo poetry out loud county finals