Artist Statement

 

In addition to being of African American and Somalian decent, I am also a practicing Muslim female who wears the hijab (headscarf). My experiences thus far have provided me with first hand knowledge about what it is like to be misrepresented, and it is with such societal prejudices in mind that I create my art. My works are aimed at corresponding to the voices and the social issues that are one-dimensionally discussed and frequently misconceptualized in the media, oftentimes dismissing the basic element of humanity. In the making of this project, I have had the opportunity to meet a variety of people whose lives are directly impacted by these issues. Through the incorporation of personal stories and struggles, I am able to create a platform where these voices can be heard.

 

It is no secret that our society heavily relies on the media as the number one source of information about what goes on in the world. First impressions stick, and unfortunately the first image one receives about most countries come from the news, which is oftentimes biased. In my videos, I use media and news clips as visual representations, while I play audio narrations about the life of my family in Somalia and personal accounts of the current generation of Somali Americans. Currently, the media takes on a negative angle when covering matters related to Somalia, highlighting issues like piracy, civil war, and poverty. However, the personal perspective from Somalians includes less controversial issues, like family, and the basic Somalian lifestyle.  The video that I am presenting merges different points of view. They intentionally contradict each other with the specific purpose of demonstrating the different perspectives on current issues in Somalia.

 

This project gave me the push and determination to learn more about Somalia, the country where my father currently resides. Wanting to know more, I plunged head in to discuss what even full Somalians would rather not. The current situation there is one that most feel is too awful and depressing to talk about. It made even me, a newcomer into the current American Somalian culture, quickly aware of my invisible handcuffs. It also gave me an added and buffed new level of respect for my father who, a little over a year ago, decided to leave the US to join the government there, and make a positive change, paving the way for a better life for future generations.