The State of the Moroccan Community in the USA
Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at 12:02PM By Driss R. Temsamani
Moroccans are one of the fastest growing Arab communities after the Lebanese in the United States. The latest American Census reports indicate that the number of Moroccans residing in the United States exceeds 150,000, possible 300,000 including Moroccan’s of Jewish decent. These numbers will continues to grow as the American government grants more visas to Moroccans through the yearly Lottery process.
Although growing in numbers, the Moroccan community continues to be fragmented across the United States. Studies conducted by the 361 Degrees Institute (http://www.361degrees.org) show that the characteristics of a successful ethnic minority in the United States consist of 4 main traits:
1. To be economically successful.
2. To be well assimilated in political and social institutions of the society.
3. To enjoy a positive image in the society and is able to defend its members against ethnic hostility.
4. To live with dignity and self-respect, which arises from behaving with courage and moral righteousness.
The results of the Demographics Survey conducted in 2008 by 361 Degrees Institute (http://www.361degrees.org/research/?currentPage=4); show that most of Moroccans in the USA enjoy some if not all these traits and are highly educated and prosperous group of people, with a higher standard of living than many other ethnic groups.
Yet, the Community is not immune from the issues that emerging minority communities face specially in the current market conditions. Many Moroccans today are struggling to achieve the American dream as a result of the eroding economy, access to education, harsh financial conditions and the loss of identity.
As the number of Moroccans continues to grow in the USA, it’s critical to organize the community in order to wield a persuasive voice that can influence policies affecting Moroccans in the USA. The community should exploit it’s growing presence and successes to empower the next generation; socially, economically and politically and to also assist those that need to enhance their lives to achieve their American dream.