The imaginary Kurdish museum: Ordinary Kurds, narrative nationalisms and collective memory Cover Image

The imaginary Kurdish museum: Ordinary Kurds, narrative nationalisms and collective memory
The imaginary Kurdish museum: Ordinary Kurds, narrative nationalisms and collective memory

Author(s): Vera Eccarius-Kelly
Subject(s): Nationalism Studies, Migration Studies, Ethnic Minorities Studies
Published by: Transnational Press London
Keywords: Kurdish diaspora; Kurdishness; identity; memory; nationalism;

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this article is to reflect on the role of Kurdish collective memory in the diaspora as it affirms Kurdishness and rejects the Turkish state’s hegemonic histories. Where can Kurdish families go to recognise their own heritage, reflect on their socio-cultural journeys, share experiences, or validate familial memories? Non-elite diaspora Kurds are asked to curate exhibits for an imagined Kurdish museum. The exhibit proposals explore how ideas and beliefs shape diasporic representations of Kurdishness and why the (in)visibility of Kurdish diaspora communities remains a pressing concern.

  • Issue Year: 3/2015
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 172-191
  • Page Count: 20
  • Language: English