Urban cultures in the Dakar suburbs: its Emergence, Evolution, and Impact on Youth

Introduction:
From the artistic revolution to the social and political revolution.
Urban cultures in the Dakar suburbs have undergone significant evolution. Over the past decades, these urban cultures, including graffiti, rap, dance and street art, have played an important role in the expression of the identity and demands of the populations of the Dakar suburbs. From astonishing artistic performances to a social and political revolution.
The artistic revolution in the Dakar suburbs began in the 1990s, with the emergence of an alternative and underground art scene. Suburban youth began to express themselves through urban art forms such as graffiti and street art. These forms of artistic expression allowed them to claim their cultural identity, to criticize the injustices and inequalities they faced on a daily basis, and to create spaces of expression and creativity for themselves.

Evolution :
As these forms of artistic expression developed, they contributed to the formation of a dynamic artistic community in the Dakar suburbs. Artist collectives, such as the RBS group (Rappers, Breakers and Skaters), emerged and organized events, dance competitions and shows to promote urban cultures. These initiatives made it possible to strengthen social ties between young people in the suburbs and give them a voice and visibility in Senegalese society.
Beyond the artistic dimension, urban cultures in the Dakar suburbs have also contributed to a social revolution. Suburban artists used their art and their voices to speak out against social problems such as poverty, unemployment and discrimination. Their songs have often been a rallying cry for youth, encouraging them to action and political participation.
They also organized solidarity and collective mobilization actions to fight against these injustices.
Urban cultures in the Dakar suburbs have undergone rapid evolution in recent decades. These cultures have been able to develop and adapt to local realities. Hip-hop, for example, has become extremely popular among young people in these so-called sensitive neighborhoods. Urban cultures in the Dakar suburbs have evolved to incorporate international influences while remaining anchored in Senegalese cultures. They allowed young Senegalese people to find a voice and an identity of their own and contributed to the enrichment of the cultural artistic scene in Dakar.

Impact on youth:
Urban cultures have contributed greatly to the reintegration and empowerment of young suburbanites, giving them a voice and allowing them to express their social and political concerns. Songs and choreographies have become powerful tools to raise awareness about issues such as injustice, corruption and inequality. Urban cultures have provided a positive alternative to the delinquency and violence that can be present in certain disadvantaged areas, thus providing a means of creative expression. Young people channelled their energy and passion into more constructive activities.

Bourya Cisse

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