Carol T. Silverman (University of Oregon, emerita)
How are Romani musicians responding to the alarming rise of xenophobia, racism, and authoritarianism in the Balkans? Neo-fascist politicians specifically target Roma, labelling them criminal, foreign, and dangerous. Investigating recent media, I ask: what forms have Romani projects taken, who produces them, why and how, and what affect do they have? In short, what are the challenges in merging activism and Romani music? Meriting a deeper analysis than merely “protest songs,” activism emerges in texts and images as well as declaring your identity in non-stereotypical ways, managing your own career, or changing unequal structures of music production.
Part of 06-13 Adversity, Advocacy, and the Politics of Vernacular Artistic Expression, Friday, November 03, 2:30 pm–4:30 pm