Graphic work in support of the Egyptian revolution.

Above: Fatma Abdel Aziz, 2011. Many friends and former students are still suffering under the internet blackout in Egypt, but that hasn’t stopped others from lending their support in any way they can. Fatma, who also has family in Egypt she is deeply concerned about, first made these posters available via Facebook. She encourages people to share and use them online as a way of keeping the Egyptian people and their dreams in our hearts.

I am grateful and inspired that Fatma has encouraged this posting, and I asked her to write a brief accompaniment to each image. While noting it is hard to translate the true feeling of the Egyptian dialect, she writes: “The first poster (above) says ” إرحل إرحل يا مبارك” which translates to “Leave! Leave! Oh, Mubarak.” This was one of the first chants screamed by the Egyptian crowds during the protests.”

Above: Fatma Abdel Aziz, 2011. “The second message reads: ‘سوف أظل سوف أظل,’ which literally translates to “I shall stay, I shall stay,” part of Mubarak’s speech, where I found so many hidden meanings. Sure, he did follow that by saying, ‘… leaning toward freedom for the people in expressing their opinions as much as I hold on to the need to maintain Egypt’s safety and stability.’ I still chose to read between the lines, and use his own words against him. I was at my parents’ at the time, and I shared my intentions with my father, showed him the poster and asked him what he thought it needed. He pondered for about 3 minutes and then said, ‘مش عايزينك انت عدو,’ which literally translates to “We don’t want you, you are the enemy!’”

Above: Fatma Abdel Aziz, 2011. “Last but not least, the signs raised by the public. Here’s the translation of the chants from left to right: ‘Oh! Freedom, where are you? State Security separates us from you.’ ‘Wake up people! Wake up and see! They killed Khaled Saed out in the open.’ ‘Oh! You government thugs! You only protect the thieves and killers.’ ‘Oh! You disgraceful government! All your scandals are shameful.’”

Bravo for your courage, Fatma, and for your support for the aspirations of your people.