MENA Communities Demand Data Visibility | San Diego News

For years, Middle Eastern and North African communities have been misclassified as “white” on official forms, erasing their unique identities and hindering accurate data collection. Though the federal government added a MENA category to the 2024 Census and California passed a state law to expand local data options, the upcoming American Community Survey still lacks it — delaying crucial planning for the 2030 Census. Advocates are pushing locally, like in El Cajon, where residents are demanding city council action. While some officials support the effort, others remain silent — but community pressure is growing to ensure these groups aren’t left invisible in public policy and services. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b2cc6d37b13822c8