« They brought us, they sold us » is a project delving into the legacy of slavery in Algeria through the lens of Diwan music, a variant of Gnawa music. Nestled in Ghardaïa, within the Mzab Valley, a city once pivotal in the caravan routes of slaves across the Algerian desert, the musical culture serves as a poignant repository of historical memory. Ritual ceremonies, songs, dances, and the personal recollections of the residents all contribute to the preservation of this profound heritage.

This series embarks on a journey to connect with Malika, a Diwan musician in Ghardaia, whose grandfather endured the hardships of slavery. Alongside her family of musicians, they invited into their daily lives, offering insights into the Diwan culture.

The series takes its name from a refrain within a Diwan song, echoing the sentiment, « They brought us from Sudan, they sold us at a meager price. »