In response to Netflix’s docudrama starring Adele James as the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, the “Egypt For Egyptians” hashtag started trending and garnered widespread support.
In this regard, the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities stated that historians described Cleopatra as light-skinned with Hellenistic traits and stated that portraying her otherwise is a “forgery of history”. In addition, the newly-launched channel, Al-Watha’eqeya, has announced the production of its documentary on Cleopatra.
On the other hand, Egyptologist Monica Hanna wrote a Facebook post that being an ancient Egyptian was more about culture than race, and, given a lack of evidence on the racial debates, it is difficult to determine whether Cleopatra considered herself Ptolemaic or Egyptian.
The campaign shows, through illustrating some modern Egyptians’ features similar to the sculptures of their ancient counterparts, the cultural connection appreciates the historical and overwhelming sameness between those living on the land today and those who lived thousands of years ago. The campaign also reflects the rich and diverse culture, which includes Cleopatra, and pride in the Egyptian identity that must be shared by all Egyptians.
