Review by Sabrina Nichol
The documentary Sudan, Remember Us, written and directed by Hind Meddeb, follows the determination of young activists in the country’s capital Khartoum as they peacefully resist President Omar al-Bashir’s authoritarian regime and demand a civilian-led government. In the midst of political repression, systemic corruption, economic collapse, and military violence, the film captures the essence of a nonviolent revolution. It begins during the 57-day sit-in at Sudan’s Army Headquarters in April 2019, a pivotal moment in the movements fight for a democratic government. The peaceful demonstrations, filled with chanting, music, and art, and people sharing meals, were met with violence as the military attacked on the last night of Ramadan. As protests intensified, Bashir was removed from power in April 2019, and the government was subsequently led by a Prime Minister selected by civilian groups with a joint civilian-military transitional government. The power sharing agreement dissolved after a military coup in October 2021. Although the films ending confronts the audience with the harsh current state of Sudan, and the vast humanitarian crisis civilians continue to face, it also brings light to the fortitude of civilians who continue to fight for freedom, peace, and a civilian-led government.
The film captures various forms of nonviolent action and civil disobedience used by Sudanese civilians. From December 2018 to April 2019, mass protests and sit-ins successfully led to the removal of President Omar al-Bashir from power. Demonstrators also engaged in more subtle daily acts of resistance, such as reporting to work to avoid being fired, but refusing to perform any tasks, and limiting purchases to only necessary items as an economic protest. Following the military coup, the demonstrations continued. People painted murals to honor those killed by the military or those who had disappeared, presumably arrested. One may find messages like, “When the dictator falls, we will be back.”, across city walls. A group of women united by their fight for a just future share politically driven poetry expressing their struggles. Art can be a safer yet effective way for civilians to resist, reclaim public spaces, build solidarity, and give a voice to the marginalized in Sudan. All these acts embody the strength of the Sudanese people and their continuous pursuit for a democratic future. I feel that the film effectively portrays a range of nonviolent methods, each with varying levels of risks, and offers valuable insight into their impact in the face of a repressive authoritarian regime and an ongoing humanitarian crisis.