Census Shake-Up: Will 'Black English' and 'Asian English' Become Official?

Jan de Vries · 2026-11-11

When you think of the census, you probably think of boring forms and long-forgotten questions. But hold on, because there's a debate brewing that could change how millions of people describe their identity. And it all started with a push from MPs in the UK. ### The Push for New Identity Options Josh Babarinde, a Liberal Democrat MP, has been leading the charge. He wants the census to include 'Black English', 'Asian English', and 'Mixed English' as tick-box options. And guess what? He's won cross-party backing. That's right—politicians from different sides are actually agreeing on something. The argument is simple: if people feel English but also identify with their Black, Asian, or mixed heritage, why shouldn't the census reflect that? ### Why This Matters Let's be real: the census is more than just a headcount. It's a snapshot of who we are as a nation. When people don't see themselves in the options, they feel invisible. Babarinde argues that recognizing these identities is a step toward a more inclusive society. Plus, it could help policymakers understand the needs of diverse communities better. But not everyone is convinced. Some worry that adding more categories could complicate things or dilute the data. Others say it's a distraction from bigger issues. ### The Bigger Picture This isn't just about the UK. It's part of a global conversation about identity and how we measure it. As populations become more diverse, traditional categories like 'Black' or 'Asian' might not capture the full picture. The census is supposed to reflect reality, not the other way around. So, if people are already identifying as 'Black English' or 'Asian English' in their daily lives, shouldn't the form catch up? > "Recognising these identities isn't about dividing us—it's about seeing us." – Josh Babarinde ### What's Next? The proposal has support, but it's not a done deal. It still needs to go through debates and approvals. But the fact that it's gotten this far shows that the conversation is shifting. Whether you're in the US or Europe, this is a reminder that identity is complex, and our tools for measuring it need to evolve. So, next time you fill out a form, ask yourself: does this really capture who I am? What do you think? Should the census include these options? Or is it making things too complicated? Either way, it's a debate worth having.