I Am My Homeland (Watani Ana) is a 2011 song for two vocals, cello and piano by composer and pianist Malek Jandali. The song was released in a music video (https://youtu.be/fjqR7H6YumE?feature=shared) on April 17, 2011. The composition blends classical Western influences with Middle Eastern melodies, a signature style of Jandali’s work. It resonates especially with those who have experienced displacement, longing for their roots, or a strong emotional connection to their country.

The song features poetic Arabic lyrics by the composer that emphasize the deep connection between a person and their homeland. 

I am my homeland, and my homeland is me 

The fire in my heart burns with love for you 

Oh my homeland, when will I see you free? 

When the sun of virtue rises in your sky 

When the pen writes of loyalty and love 

When the land is watered with the blood of martyrs and the brave 

And all people shout: Freedom to mankind! Freedom to mankind! 

Oh my homeland, cradle of humanity

From which the light of civilizations spread

The birthplace of prophets 

The resting place of martyrs 

We pray to the heavenly God 

To lift calamities from my country, my people and all mankind

In July 2011, Malek Jandali’s parents, Dr. Mamoun Jandali and Prof. Lina Droubi, were brutally attacked in their home in Homs, Syria, in retaliation for their son’s musical activism. Just months earlier, on April 23, 2011, Jandali had performed his song I Am My Homeland (Watani Ana) at a pro-democracy rally in Lafayette Square, Washington, D.C., in solidarity with the Syrian people during the Syrian revolution for freedom and dignity. The song, with its powerful message of love and devotion to one’s homeland beyond tyranny, became an anthem of resilience and hope. Enraged by his defiance, Syrian regime forces raided his parents’ home on July 29, 2011, savagely beating them, breaking their bones, and ransacking their house—despite their old age and complete lack of political involvement.

Rather than being silenced, Jandali transformed this tragic event into a renewed artistic mission, using his music as a vehicle for freedom and human rights. His compositions continue to honor the sacrifices of those who fight for justice, shedding light on the devastating consequences of oppression. The attack on his parents serves as a stark reminder of the profound power of music in shaping social change and the brutal lengths to which authoritarian regimes will go to suppress it.