"Our Blood Is Not Cheap": A Photovoice Project on Being Arab in a Racialized U.S

Background:Arab Americans have long experienced shifting forms of racialization and marginalization in the U.S., with their identity often rendered invisible in national data and discourse. Despite early waves of immigration in the 19th century, the absence of a MENA (Middle Eastern/North African) category in the U.S. Census continues to erase Arab American presence in public policy and services. Events such as the 1967 Arab-Israeli War, 9/11, and most recently, the Trump administration’s xenophobic rhetoric and policies—including the "Muslim Ban"—have further entrenched anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment. This study uses the concept of racialization to explore how Arab Americans are positioned as outsiders and how they resist these narratives through identity expression and community engagement.

Methods: This community-based participatory research (CBPR) project utilized Photovoice to elevate Arab American voices and narratives during and after the Trump presidency. In collaboration with Arab American Family Services (AAFS), researchers recruited 11 Arab American participants living in the southwest suburbs of Chicago in early 2021. Participants were asked to take photographs that responded to the following questions: (1)What does it mean to be a member of the Arab or Muslim community in a post-9/11 and post-Trump America? (2)What are issues of discrimination or anti- Muslim or anti-Arab sentiment that you see or experience in your community? (3)How do you understand and express your Arab American or Muslim identity? (4)What are the supports needed being a resident in the southwest suburbs? (5) What are some issues around policing, employment, transportation, infrastructure or housing, mental health, or health care in your community? Participants each submitted 5- 8 photos along with reflective narratives, then participated in group discussions conducted via Zoom. Two group sessions were held: one in English and another that allowed for Arabic and English dialogue, ensuring linguistic inclusivity and cultural relevance.

Results:Participants’ narratives revealed the daily tensions of racial misclassification and invisibility—being marked as “White” on official forms, yet experiencing racialized violence and exclusion. Many shared frustration over the lack of recognition, which limited their access to culturally responsive healthcare, education, and mental health services—needs made more urgent by the COVID-19 pandemic. Faith emerged as both a source of resilience and a frequent target of discrimination, particularly in schools where children were pressured to hide or downplay their Muslim identity.Despite these challenges, the stories also highlighted deep community resilience. Participants documented civic engagement through protest, voting, and interfaith events, reclaiming public space and asserting belonging. Local organizations and religious communities were described as critical anchors in navigating systemic barriers. Through their photos and stories, participants painted a picture of a community not only surviving but actively resisting marginalization and shaping its future.

Implications:The findings call for formal recognition of Arab Americans through a distinct MENA category in the Census, along with culturally responsive policy interventions. Addressing systemic invisibility is essential to advancing equity in health, education, and public life. Arab Americans are not passive subjects of discrimination—they are agents of change, demanding recognition, resources, and justice.