Yezidi Children's Safe Space

As we kick off 2024, FYF is actively engaged both on the ground in Iraq and within the international community, working tirelessly to comprehensively address the enduring repercussions of the Yezidi genocide on a community that remains displaced and traumatized. In Iraq, FYF is implementing targeted initiatives to provide immediate relief, holistic support, and sustainable resources to those affected. This includes efforts to facilitate access to education and mental healthcare and foster economic empowerment. Simultaneously, FYF is a vocal advocate on the global stage, raising awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by the Yezidi community and advocating for sustained international support. Through a holistic approach, FYF strives to address not only the immediate needs but also the long-term well-being and resilience of the Yezidi people in the aftermath of genocide.

FYF RAMPS UP EDUCATION INITIATIVES FOR CONFLICT-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES 

FYF is proud to launch it's new English Access Microscholarship Program in Sheikhan, made possible by the generous support of the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil.

This vital educational initiative aims to empower 144 students from different ethnic and religious backgrounds with English Language, Digital Literacy, and Professional and Personal Development, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to shape a brighter future.

In December, 65 bright minds graduated from FYF's second semester of education courses at its Enterprise and Training Center in Khanke, Duhok. Students dedicated 3 months to mastering English, Arabic, IT, and professional development classes.

At FYF, we’re committed to fostering opportunities for displaced and vulnerable individuals to enhance their knowledge, paving the way for higher education and future career success. 

SUPPORTING THE YEZIDI COMMUNITY 10 YEARS AFTER GENOCIDE 

On January 29, the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide hosted a discussion on the current challenges facing the Yezidi community and possible ways to strengthen their ability to recover from genocide. 

As a participant in this event, I underscored critical issues facing the Yezidi community. Specifically, I drew attention to the persistent lack of investment in the community's rebuilding, the transient and unsustainable nature of the aid that reaches them, and the alarming figure of over 2,600 still-missing Yezidi women and children. My emphasis extended to the gendered dimension of genocide and displacement, where I highlighted the apprehensions of many Yezidi women and girls about returning to Sinjar due to the potential loss of acquired rights during displacement.

Meet Eman from Sinjar – a resilient Yezidi woman crafting joy through sweets. Despite the challenges of the 2014 Yezidi Genocide and her family's ongoing displacement, Eman found solace at FYF's Enterprise and Training Center.

In 2021, she joined the Free Yezidi Foundation's bakery training courses. Now, Eman and her fellow female bakers spread joy and happiness through their delicious baked goods.

Join us in celebrating Yezidi women's hope, resilience, and joy of creating something sweet in the face of adversity.

BURIAL CEREMONY FOR 41 YEZIDI GENOCIDE VICTIMS

This month, the families of 41 victims of the Yezidi Genocide in Qani, Hardan, and Kocho villages finally laid their remains to rest. A ceremony honoring their lives took place at the Yezidi Genocide Memorial in Solagh, Sinjar.

These burial ceremonies serve as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of the genocide on the Yezidi community. The urgent imperative to exhume, identify, and return victims to their families underscores the need for collective healing. Providing a proper resting place for the departed allows survivors to begin their journey towards solace and closure.

Thank you, as always, for your steadfast support of FYF and the Yezidi community.

Sincerely,

Pari Ibrahim
Executive Director
Free Yezidi Foundation