Yazidi slaves rescued by Iraqi troops.
In the rugged mountains of northern Iraq, a community with a rich and ancient heritage has faced unimaginable hardship in recent years. The Yazidis, a Kurdish religious minority scattered across Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Turkey, have long been known for their unique blend of beliefs, drawing from ancient Iranian religions, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. Central to their faith is the belief in a supreme deity who created the world and entrusted its care to seven divine beings.
Map of Kurdistan region.
Despite their peaceful traditions and avoidance of military service and formal education, the Yazidis have been thrust into the global spotlight due to relentless persecution by the terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). In 2014, ISIS declared the Yazidis to be devil worshippers and launched a ruthless campaign against them, particularly targeting the region of Sinjar in northern Iraq. This onslaught resulted in the displacement of over 400,000 Yazidis, with thousands killed or captured.
The impact on Yazidi children has been particularly devastating. More than 6,000 women and children were captured by ISIS forces, with women subjected to sexual slavery and trafficking, and young boys forcibly recruited to fight for ISIS. Heartbreakingly, some Yazidi mothers were forced to leave their children behind in order to escape the horrors of sexual violence.
Since 2015, over 150,000 Yazidis have returned to Sinjar, determined to rebuild their lives despite the challenges. However, approximately 200,000 still suffer in Iraqi camps, unable to return home due to ongoing disputes between the Kurdish and Iraqi governments. Basic necessities such as education, healthcare, clean water, and electricity remain scarce for those who have returned to Sinjar, highlighting the urgent need for sustained international support.
Modern-day Sinjar.
Thankfully, there are organizations and initiatives dedicated to aiding the Yazidis in their recovery. The Free Yezidi Foundation stands out, providing crucial support to vulnerable community members by offering education, livelihood opportunities, and justice. Notably, female survivors create hand-knitted stuffed animals delivered to Yazidi children. Additionally, initiatives like the Yezidi-run bakery "Sugar is Sweet" not only provide sustenance but also empower local communities economically.
Nadia Murad, a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and herself a survivor of ISIS captivity in Sinjar, has spearheaded Nadia's Initiative. This initiative is pivotal in the sustainable redevelopment of Sinjar, focusing on restoring essential services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. It also emphasizes cultural preservation and women's empowerment, recognizing the vital role women play in rebuilding their communities.
Click on the links below to donate to the Free Yezidi Foundation and Nadia's Initiative.
Works Cited
Sayki, Inci. “Where Are the Yazidis Today, Almost a Decade After ISIS's Genocidal Campaign?” PBS, 13 March 2024, https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/article/yazidis-decade-after-isis-genocidal-campaign/. Accessed 20 July 2024.
“Yazidi | History, Culture, & Religion.” Britannica, 10 July 2024, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Yazidi. Accessed 20 July 2024.
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