Voices of Liberation: A Journey Through Art and Activism with Saman Qadir

In an era marked by profound social and political unrest, few voices resonate as powerfully as that of Saman Qadir. An independent photojournalist, visual artist, and activist, Saman’s work transcends boundaries, reflecting a deep commitment to humanity, justice, and the power of art.

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Finding Her Voice in Activism

Saman’s journey is one of resilience and determination. As a Muslim woman and artist, she has navigated spaces often hostile to her identity.

“I dare you not to see me as a human being,”

she shares, recounting moments face-to-face with police officers at protests. Her defiance isn’t born of anger but of a steadfast belief in the shared humanity of even those who oppress.

Her activism is deeply personal, stemming from a lifetime of witnessing injustice.

Protests for Palestine have been a generational effort in her family, with her grandfather, father, and now herself carrying the torch. However, the scale has changed—what once were gatherings of 20 to 30 people now see hundreds of thousands raising their voices. “We really lit a match,” she says, speaking of the global awakening to the Palestinian cause.

Art as a Medium of Truth

For Saman, art isn’t just a career—it’s a vehicle for change. Whether through photojournalism or murals, her work captures stories often ignored or silenced.

She speaks of her mission to “show you so it’s undeniable” and hopes that her art sparks a call to action in others.

Her collaboration with the Bay Area Mural Program (BAMP) is a testament to this ethos. Projects like the Palestinian liberation mural on 14th Street and her portrait by Rachel Wolfe stand as powerful symbols of resistance and representation.

These pieces don’t just decorate walls; they tell stories, provoke thought, and inspire communities to engage with difficult truths.

The Power of Representation

Representation is at the core of Saman’s work. She understands the weight of her presence as a Muslim woman in spaces where such voices are often marginalized. Her bravery in speaking out, even in the face of personal risk, has empowered others to find their voices.

“Let me be that spark for you,” she says, embracing her role as a catalyst for change.

Her activism extends beyond her own identity. Saman’s dedication to justice is universal, standing in solidarity with Black and Brown communities and advocating for their liberation.

“There is a space that everybody can reside in when it comes to liberation,”

She emphasizes, challenging others to confront their biases and join the fight for equity.

A Legacy of Hope

In times when hope feels like “hanging onto a burning rod,” Saman remains steadfast. Her belief in liberation is not just a dream but a commitment to action, rooted in the understanding that change begins within.

Through her art and activism, she reminds us that our shared humanity is the foundation for building a better world.

As Saman reflects on her journey, her message is clear: Liberation is not just a cause; it’s a way of life. And in her own words,

“If you really believe in manifesting all this, you can manifest real liberation.”