Recognize North Africans as a Minority Group & Establish a North African Heritage Month in Massachusetts

To:
Governor of Massachusetts
Attorney General of Massachusetts
Mayors of Cities Across Massachusetts

We, the undersigned, call on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its municipalities to formally recognize North Africans as a distinct minority group and to designate a North African Heritage Month.

Why this matters:
 • North Africans contribute deeply to Massachusetts’ cultural, economic, and social life.
 • Despite this, North Africans are often misclassified in demographic data, which leads to underrepresentation in education, public policy, and community resources.
 • Recognizing North Africans as a minority will ensure fair access to programs, protections, and opportunities that reflect the reality of our diverse communities.
 • A Heritage Month will provide space to honor the history, languages, traditions, and contributions of North African Americans in Massachusetts.

We demand:
 1. That the Commonwealth of Massachusetts officially recognize North Africans as a minority category in state records, data collection, and policy.
 2. That a North African Heritage Month be established annually, to celebrate and educate about the community’s rich heritage.
 3. That cities across Massachusetts adopt local resolutions to honor and support their North African residents.

Your leadership will affirm Massachusetts’ commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural respect.