Hello everyone,Thank you for welcoming me to this group. My paternal grandmother, Suzanne Bouskila, emigrated from Casablanca to the USA in 1955, and while she passed away when I was just a year old, I feel a deep connection to her roots. Now, as a professor with research skills, I'm eager to learn more about our family's history and heritage. Like many of you, I've faced challenges due to the limited historical records available from Morocco, especially beyond the early 1800s. I have several questions for the group, but I wanted to start with a question and contribution.Has anyone in the group done research into the Bouskila lineage? I see a few Bouskilas are participating here, which is very exciting.As a contribution, I wanted to share some insights from my research on the Bouskila surname. The name Bouskila is rooted in the Moroccan Jewish pronunciation of "Bu-Shkila," derived from the diminutive form “Shikla,” which historically referred to a distinctive sign or piece of clothing imposed on North African Jewry. This marker, commonly taking the form of a colored turban, was a means of stigmatizing and distinguishing Jewish identity. Research by scholars like Alexander Beider, Joseph Chetrit, and Yvette Alt Miller indicates that the name is tied to the broader socio-cultural dynamics of the region, particularly in Morocco and Tunisia. While the surname likely originated in Morocco, it became more common in Tunisia over time. This understanding is supported by historical accounts and migration patterns, reflecting the complex history of Jewish communities in the Maghreb. I have a more detailed history that I’d be happy to share if anyone is interested! Looking forward to connecting and learning more from this incredible community. Best, Joshua