Transform Defacement into Defiance – May 15

Anida Yoeu Ali is a Chicago-based artist, activist and performer. Anida is completing her graduate work at the School of the Art Institute. Her recent installation, “1700 % Project: Otherance,” focuses on hate crimes against Muslims, Arabs and those perceived to be either Muslim or Arab.  From the website description: “The project challenges monolithic stereotypes of a ‘Muslim’ identity while acknowledging the significance of historical persecution.” The number 1700 represents “the exponential percentage increase of hate crimes against Arabs, Muslims and those perceived to be Arab or Muslim since the events of September 11, 2001.”

Anida’s installation was vandalized this week. The phrase “Kill All Arabs” was highlighted from the exhibit. The Chicago Police are currently investigating the incident, and the Council on American Islamic Relations is working with Anida in addressing this act of hate.

Chicago Public Radio  featured Anida as part of its Islamic Reform series last week, and interviewed her today to discuss the vandalism attack.

In response to the vandalism, Anida has sent out a public invitation to take a stand together as a community against this hateful attack:  “Transform Defacement into Defiance,” this Saturday, May 15 at 12:30 pm at the installation, Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State Street, 7th floor. The closing performance is on Friday, May 21 at 4:30 pm. The galleries are open to the public Tuesday- Saturday, from 11am-6pm.

And, come see Anida perform at Takin’ it to the Streets, an Urban International Festival which will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2010 in Marquette Park.

Please bring your friends this Saturday, May 15 and/or next Friday, May 21 to show your support. Spread the word!

Additional media clips can be found on the 1700% News section.