In the middle eastern sphere, where do non-Arabs find their voice? How do we create representation? Rightfully so, when you tell someone you are middle eastern they assume you are Arab. Arabs make up about 60% of the middle east (accounting for 407-420 million people). A number I can only dream of for Assyrians. In the last few decades, the number of Assyrians in the middle ea
st has dwindled to under 250,000 (and I’m being generous there). So how the hell do we find our voice amongst all the noise? How do we find representation for our microscopic indigenous community in the motherland and around the world? How do we take that magnifying glass and shine it right upon us like the sun does to spark a flame and ignite “noise”?
As an Assyrian, I’ve always struggled with identity/representation: I’m not white enough for the west, not Arab enough for the middle east, not Assyrian enough in a traditional sense for my own community, not edgy enough for myself. Expressing ourselves in a western world is something very new to us, so how can we pay respect to our ancestors, heritage, culture, traditions, language, and art, but not break the taboo? Should we break the taboo and be considered a bit more risqué with our approach? Or does that come at a cost of reputation, shame, embarrassment, and repercussions from the family/community? If you’re too risqué you will be frowned upon – have a voice, but not too loud. All these play a continuous musical performance in my mind 24/7. Anyone wants to join!!!
I’ve been questioning myself quite a bit lately through developing the Atra collection. There were so many ideas I wanted to do, but I’d be hesitant because I
was scared on how people would perceive the art work. I became extremely OCD to make sure everything was perfect as a way to pay respect to my ancestors. Hence, delaying the collection for over a month (because designs and printing quality was not anywhere near what I want to put out there). I was scared, hesitant, doubtful, had some sleepless nights, and insecurities about my approach. BUT, it clicked – the answer to all my questions I beautifully and so eloquently dumped on you above. If we don’t take that risk then how can we ever make noise? What becomes taboo? Is the term “taboo” relative to what each individual believes is taboo? And it hit me, be tastefully taboo and it will all work out. Just do what feels right for you and the rest will work itself out. Always be authentic.
My Atra collection is just one tiny little sound in all of the noise, but it’s there amongst so many others in our generation who are creating and influencing. The noise for representation is in our hands (one piece of representation is art/creativity). There are many ingredients that go into a pot of sherwa/khorosh - it won't taste the same if one is missing. So fucking create and create the representation that you need/want.
Stand tall.
You are indigenous.
We are Ancient.
P.S. I hope this sparks conversations, thoughts, and provokes opposing opinions. That is when we can grow and expand.
Keep your Khalti vibe stares off of me, I know I cursed. I curse a lot in real life. Research shows highly intelligent people curse. I’m highly intelligent – it’s all in the perspective. You can view me as a lady who curses a lot or a very highly intelligent woman.
Yours truly - Melinda
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