Without the category, Liu said it is impossible to track discrimination based on Middle Eastern and North African county of origin. Like most universities, Ohio State does not specifically have a MENA category for students. “Lack of a MENA option makes me feel like I am forced to contribute to the whitewashing of Middle Eastern and North African Americans,” Barghouty said. Barghouty said Middle Eastern and North African Americans are still subject to mistreatment while also lacking access to governmental programs available to other groups. Regardless of whether there is a MENA category, Jani said it is important to hold onto a particular experience or legacy to create an impact.

Source: The North Africa Journal December 23, 2021 01:51 UTC