The Invisible MENA Population in Dearborn, Michigan

Abstract

Dearborn, MI is the enclave of Arab Americans in the United States. Arabs migrated to Dearborn, MI, many as refugees of war, seeking prosperity. The Arab American experience is invisible because this population is classified as “White'” according to the U.S. Census. However, many Arab Americans do not identify as “White.” Therefore, interpretations using “White” statistics may be flawed. It is imperative that the Office of Management and Budget include a Middle Eastern North African (MENA) category to separate the “White” data and disaggregate MENA data. The Obama and Biden Administrations have submitted proposals on collecting MENA population data. It is unknown if the 2030 U.S. Census will include MENA categories. Law enforcement and other organizations can incorporate both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods to capture MENA population statistics and their lived experiences. Until then, the MENA population and their needs will remain invisible to the general population and justice may be elusive.