In Arts Initiatives by Refugees for Refugees: Forced Displacement, Creativity, and Agency, folklorist Lisa Gilman challenges portrayals of refugees primarily as victims or populations to be managed. Drawing on research in the Dzaleka refugee camp in Malawi, among Syrians in Türkiye, and among Uyghurs in France, she introduces people actively shaping their lives and communities through creative practice.
Its story-centered chapters examine musicians, dancers, visual artists, craftspeople, festivals, cultural organizations, and community initiatives created by refugees for themselves and one another. Their work preserves identity, creates connection and opportunity, and allows people to exercise agency amid displacement and uncertainty.
At its core, the book asks readers to recognize refugees not only through what they have endured, but through what they imagine, create, and contribute. The complete book is available to read or download free through an open-access edition from Berghahn Books. Publisher information and free full text ↗
