For over two centuries, the people once documented under “Negro Slavery” endured unimaginable hardships while laying the very foundations of American society and prosperity. These 246 years of legalized bondage, recorded in historical documents as “Negro Slavery,” are a testament to the resilience, sacrifice, and vital contributions of those who carried the “Negro” bloodline. It is paramount that the distinct history and identity of these individuals and their descendants be properly recognized and honored in the nation’s most important demographic record—the U.S. Census.
By designating “Negro American” as a dedicated category—or “Top Box”—on the Census, we affirm the significance of a legacy that includes the fight for civil rights, groundbreaking cultural and intellectual achievements, and immeasurable sacrifices that shaped the soul of this nation. This recognition helps preserve a lineage that has long been central to the American narrative yet risks being overlooked or generalized in broader classifications. Acknowledging the specific heritage of “Negro Americans” also ensures that future generations can trace their ancestry accurately, celebrate their cultural inheritance, and seek redress for historical inequities.
In honoring the history of “Negro Slavery” and the ongoing journey of “Negro Americans,” we pay tribute to centuries of fortitude and achievement. Most importantly, we fulfill a moral obligation to preserve the full richness and complexity of America’s diverse tapestry. Recognizing “Negro American” on the Census reaffirms our national commitment to inclusivity, historical accountability, and the celebration of a people whose blood, toil, and culture continue to shape the United States today.
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https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/11/18/2024-26827/the-
census-bureaus-proposed-raceethnicity-code-list-for-the-american-community-survey-and-the-2030