Bosnian People in the Census: An Insight into Race and Identity
The question of whether Bosnian people should be categorized as 'white' or 'Asian' in US census surveys has sparked considerable debate. This discussion often centers around the complex interplay between historical, cultural, and individual identities. In this article, we explore why and how Bosnian individuals identify themselves racially in the census, and the significance of such identifications.
Historical Context
Bosnian people are historically white European Caucasians. Historically, Bosnia was a region within the Ottoman Empire, but it has strong roots in Central Europe. The majority of Bosnians who emigrated to the United States are of Serbian, Bosnian, or Croatian heritage—descendants of European ethnic groups. Given their historical background, it might seem intuitive that Bosnian people would identify themselves as 'white/Caucasian' in the US census.
The Complexity of Self-Identification
However, reality can be more nuanced. Despite being historically white, some Bosnian individuals resorted to checking the 'Asian' box in the census. This might lead to the question, 'Why do they do this?'
It is a personal choice and can be influenced by several factors, including personal identity, cultural experiences, and social context. In some cases, it could be a result of political or social influences that have historically marginalized certain ethnic groups. For others, it might simply be a matter of feeling more culturally or linguistically connected to the Asian Diaspora community.
The Question at Hand
The question itself is a complex one. It is important to recognize that racial categorization is often more about personal identity than purely biological or historical facts. Hence, the answer to whether Bosnian people should be categorized as 'white' or 'Asian' can vary widely depending on the individual.
For instance:
Most people see me this way: In many cases, Bosnian individuals consider themselves 'white'. They see themselves as part of the European racial category and share cultural and historical connections with other European ethnic groups. Personal identity: Some individuals may identify more with their religious or cultural background. For Bosnian Muslims, for example, the feeling of being 'Asian' might stem from their shared history with other Islamic communities. Community and social context: Social factors can play a significant role. If an individual has lived in an Asian community for a significant period or feels more connected to that community, they may choose to identify as 'Asian'.Broader Implications
The way Bosnian people identify themselves in the census has broader implications. It affects how they are categorized in demographic studies, government policies, and social services. For example, if a large number of Bosnian individuals identify as 'Asian', they may be excluded from data related to 'European' communities, potentially impacting social and economic support services.
Furthermore, such self-identification can influence perceptions within the wider society. It highlights the fluidity and complexity of racial and ethnic identities, and challenges the rigidity of binary categorizations.
Conclusion
The categorization of Bosnian people as 'white' or 'Asian' in the census is a multifaceted issue that reflects the complex nature of racial and ethnic identities. It is a choice that individuals make based on their personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and social contexts. It is essential to recognize and respect this diversity in self-identification, as it provides a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the identities and experiences of Bosnian people.