The co-chairs of the Shengal Democratic Autonomous Assembly, Cihan Celo and Nayif Şemo, attended the event organized in the Old Bazaar in Shengal to mark the anniversary of the Yazidi genocide.
Speaking at the event, which was attended by hundreds of people, Şemo said: “The Yazidis have still not gained their rights because they are not united. Yazidis see themselves in these photos and feel deep sorrow for their cause. We must be united, and that means accepting one another.”
Şemo continued: “This is also a historical silence in which the tragic fate of the Yazidis is repeated. Any silence in the face of oppression paves the way for its repetition. This silence must never be accepted and must be strongly condemned. Yazidis, whether in Şengal or abroad, must rise up with one voice and demand their legitimate rights that were stolen from them and for which they were massacred. On the anniversary of the ferman, we must raise our voices. History should be a lesson, not a repetition.
Each photograph is a story, each one a cry. These images are of the martyrs and of those whose spirits still live among us and call out to us. Today, Yazidis commemorate their martyrs with tears in their eyes and pain in their hearts. These commemorations and gatherings are not just mourning but also expressions of the power of unity and resistance.”
Şemo added: “Their efforts and sacrifices will never be forgotten. They became the foundation of our people’s free life. The blood of the martyrs illuminated the path not only for the Yazidis but for all humanity, for freedom and for truth. Our people must honor their martyrs and keep their memory alive. This is not only a moral duty we must fulfill, but also the foundation for building a safe and stable future. We will secure the freedom and better future we owe them, and we will continue to fight for it. Let the whole world know that the Yazidis are still suffering deeply and in need of support.”