Abdo Yousef '22

Major: Anthropology, Philosophy

Biography: Abdo Yousef is a Palestinian student raised in Brooklyn, New York interested in studying apartheid and its impacts on a society. Joining philosophical research with anthropological works, Abdo aspires to engage in the ideological theories which form under oppression and their inspirations. Abdo plans to continue study in Algeria and Palestine in the future.

Project Title: Algerian Political Expression & Folk Music

Faculty Mentor: Aseel Sawalha, Department of Anthropology

Abstract:

Taboo subjects, counter-cultural themes, and progressive attitudes are central tenants of the Algerian Raï music genre, yet its continued production has stagnated since the end of the civil war. Contextualizing a modern Algeria finds a conservative government and a history of repression towards an outlet that gave Algerians escape, resistance, and revolution throughout their struggle. In this paper, I explore how folk music serves the Algerian people in political affiliation and positions towards emerging world issues. With my travel to Algiers, I provide the sentiments Algerians have surrounding the lack of a modern Raï, struggles with a politically and economically stagnant country, and views on pressing global situations. This paper will shed light on the mode of expression music provides for revolutionary sentiments and highlight the consequences of a society lacking such an outlet.