The hidden history of the Afro-Cypriots

Introduction

When it comes to the communities in Cyprus, many people initially think of Greek or Turkish Cypriots. But the island's history is much more diverse, including Afro-Cypriots – people of African descent whose roots have been in Cyprus for generations.

This community includes both Greek and Turkish Cypriots and lives across both sides of the island, speaking both languages and practicing different religions.

Historical presence in Cyprus

Research shows that people of African origin have been living in Cyprus since Ottoman times. Their arrival was linked to trade and other connections with regions such as present-day Sudan and Ethiopia.

Afro-Cypriots lived and worked all over the island, including in agriculture, on sugarcane plantations, in mining, fishing, and in the port area. Settlements were found in places such as Episkopi, Famagusta, and villages near what is now Ercan Airport.

Prejudice and invisibility

Misunderstandings about the community persist. For example, it was once assumed that Afro-Cypriots only came from specific places like Episkopi. Over time, and with societal changes, the situation has become more complex, not least due to the arrival of new African communities with whom Afro-Cypriots are often confused.

The assumption that all Afro-Cypriots are descendants of slaves is also not true for everyone. Some came for other reasons, such as to work as healers or hairdressers.

For a long time, the political history of Cyprus focused mainly on the ethnic conflict between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, so other minorities and issues such as Afro-Cypriots received little attention in education or public discourse.

Color and skin color: Experiences with colorism

Within the Afro-Cypriot community, colorism plays a role – discrimination based on skin color. Lighter skin tones and more European features were often viewed more positively, while darker skin and Afro-textured hair sometimes elicited negative reactions.

In some families, marriage to a light-skinned partner was encouraged to influence the skin color of their offspring. Furthermore, Afro-textured hair was and still is often associated with prejudice, leading many women to straighten or conceal their hair.

Language and experiences of exclusion

Racially charged terms like "gara", "zenci", "arap", and "halayık" are part of the lived experience of many Afro-Cypriots. Even if these words were sometimes used without malicious intent, they carry historical meanings and can lead to exclusion.

The forms of discrimination often manifested themselves in subtle comments or assumptions, the effects of which could nevertheless be burdensome.

Identity and self-perception

The identity of Afro-Cypriots is multifaceted. Many see themselves primarily as Cypriots or Turkish-speaking Cypriots, while at the same time their experience as Black people shapes their social self-understanding.

Researchers describe this as "dual consciousness": the strong sense of belonging to Cyprus together with the awareness of the perception of one's own racial affiliation.

Growing recognition

In recent years, interest in the history and identity of Afro-Cypriots has been growing. Representatives such as the social commentator and artist Serap Kanay openly address the handling of natural hair, the connection to African heritage, and the challenge of long-held stereotypes.

Understanding Afro-Cypriot experiences broadens the picture of Cyprus and emphasizes the diversity of life stories on the island.