Welcome to a conversation about ongoing research involving Coptic populations around the world. Our host and facilitator is Essam Iskander, translator and interpreter for the Diocese of New York and New England. He is joined by Candace Lukasik (PhD candidate in Anthropology, UC Berkeley) and Michael Akladios (PhD candidate in History, York University).
We would like to thank the St. Mary’s Christian Center of Staten Island, the headquarters of the diocese of New York and New England under His Grace Bishop David, for hosting us and stress that the views and opinions expressed in this recording do not reflect those of the center, its staff, the diocese bishop, or the diocese.
The podcast is presented in two parts. In part 1, our guests introduce themselves and their work, discuss their experiences in the field of Coptic Studies, the challenges of fieldwork, and the larger implications of the study of Coptic populations in Egypt and its diaspora on their disciplines. They then expand on our understanding of contemporary migration patterns, the experiences of diverse ethnic, religious, and socio-economic groups in Egyptian society, and the impact of the 1952 Free Officers revolution on emigration to North America.
We hope you enjoy the conversation and please continue with part 2 as our guests discuss the place of homeland politics in the transnational experiences of Coptic immigrants to North America and attempt to tackle the question of Coptic identity.
Egypt Migrations is always looking for people to contribute to our digital initiatives. Please contact team@egyptmigrations.com if you would like to join or support the organization.
Egypt Migrations 