Where Do Turkish Americans Belong? Exploring MENA, SWANA, and Turkic Identity Classifications
As Turkish Americans continue to grow in number and civic engagement, one essential question remains unresolved:
How should Turkish Americans be recognized in U.S. racial and ethnic classifications?
Currently, Turkish Americans are generally categorized as “White” on federal forms, Census surveys, and government records. But this label fails to reflect the distinct cultural, ethnic, and historical identity of Turkish people. It erases the community in data, denies access to resources intended for minorities, and makes advocacy far more difficult. We explore three potential identity frameworks—MENA, SWANA, and Turkic/Central Asian—and examine where Turkish Americans might best be included or represented.
While some may argue Turkey is a bridge between East and West, the reality is that Turkish Americans face cultural misunderstandings, religious stereotyping, and lack of representation—issues shared with many MENA communities. If Turkish Americans are excluded from MENA, they risk remaining invisible in public policy.
What is MENA?
MENA stands for Middle East and North Africa. This term is commonly used by the U.S. government and international organizations to describe countries from Morocco to Iran, including Turkey.
Until recently, MENA was not a recognized ethnic category in the U.S. Census. But in 2024, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the addition of a new MENA category to be implemented in future federal data collection (possibly starting with the 2030 Census).
Should Turkish Americans Be Included in MENA?
We believe yes—but only if Turkish Americans are explicitly named.
What is SWANA?
SWANA stands for Southwest Asia and North Africa, and it is often used as a more accurate, decolonized alternative to “MENA.”
Why SWANA?
*The term “Middle East” is Eurocentric, based on Europe’s perspective.
*”Southwest Asia” is geographically correct and includes Turkey more naturally.
*SWANA emphasizes cultural and historical commonalities among countries often marginalized or misrepresented in U.S. policy.
While SWANA is not yet used by the U.S. government, it is becoming increasingly popular in academia, social justice spaces, and among younger generations.
Who Decides?
The U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) defines racial and ethnic categories.
The U.S. Census Bureau and other federal agencies implement those definitions in their surveys.
Community advocates, researchers, and PACs (like TC-USA PAC) can influence these decisions through public comments, coalition-building, and legislative outreach.
What Are the Benefits of MENA or SWANA Inclusion?
Visibility in Census data, research, and public policy
Access to minority grants, scholarships, and health programs
Representation in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
Political power through recognition of needs and issues unique to Turkish Americans
Cultural respect by moving beyond the outdated and homogenizing “White” label
What About a Turkic or Central Asian Identity?
This is a valid and powerful alternative, though not officially recognized yet by the U.S. government.
Why It Matters:
- Turkey has deep cultural, ethnic, and linguistic ties to Central Asia and Turkic nations like Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan.
- Many Turkish Americans identify more closely with Turkic heritage than with Arab or Iranian communities.Politically, there is a growing opportunity to shape a new ethnic identity category by building coalitions with Uyghur, Kazakh, Azeri, and other Turkic-American groups.
Politically, there is a growing opportunity to shape a new ethnic identity category.
What Can We Do Together?
As Turkish Americans—and with the leadership of PACs like TC-USA PAC—we can work collaboratively to:
- Advocate for the inclusion of Turkic identity in Census and federal data categories.
- Partner with universities, think tanks, and research institutions to elevate the visibility of Turkic Americans.
- Launch public education campaigns that highlight the contributions of Turkish and Turkic Americans to U.S. history, society, and civic life
Together, we can lead the movement for recognition. It starts with unity, awareness, and action.
Why Consistent Self-Identification Matters
Until formal categories are updated, we encourage every Turkish American to consistently write in “Turkish” under the “Other” ethnicity section on all government and institutional forms. This consistency will:
1) Provide more accurate data on our population
2) Help researchers and lawmakers understand our community’s needs
3) Lay the groundwork for formal recognition in future data policies