Persecution of Yazidis

Yazidi

shrine of Mam Rashan

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[[File:The Mountains of Kuyunjik.jpeg|thumb|Many Yazidis from Sheikhan, who had fled from the Kurds but could not cross the Tigris river, gathered on the great mound of Kouyunjik, where they were persecuted and killed by Muhammad Pasha's men.<ref name="Austen Henry Layard2">

In the picture in the middle you can see Ali Beg II. (the grandson of the Yazidi leader Ali Beg and the grandfather of Tahseen Said

Persecution of Yazidis has been a significant and tragic aspect of the history of the Yazidi people, a religious minority primarily living in Iraq, with communities in Syria, Turkey, and Iran. The Yazidis, whose religion incorporates elements of Zoroastrianism, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, have faced persecution and discrimination for centuries, largely due to misunderstandings and misrepresentations of their beliefs.

Historical Background

The Yazidis have been subject to persecution since their religion's formation, due to their beliefs being misunderstood by neighboring communities. Accusations of devil worship, primarily due to the Yazidi reverence for the peacock angel Melek Taus—often mistakenly associated with Satan by other religious groups—have fueled distrust and hostility towards the Yazidi community.

Ottoman Empire

During the time of the Ottoman Empire, Yazidis faced multiple massacres and were forced to flee their ancestral lands. The empire's policy of Islamization led to the forced conversion of many Yazidis to Islam, and those who refused faced death or expulsion.

20th Century

The 20th century saw continued violence against the Yazidis, with the rise of nationalist movements in the region often viewing the religious minority as a target. The establishment of national borders and the creation of nation-states increased the marginalization and persecution of Yazidis, who were often seen as outsiders.

21st Century

The most recent and severe persecution of Yazidis began in 2014, with the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). ISIL militants targeted Yazidis in Sinjar, killing and kidnapping thousands in what has been recognized by the United Nations as a genocide. The attack led to the displacement of an estimated 50,000 Yazidis, who fled to Mount Sinjar, where they were besieged by ISIL forces. International efforts eventually broke the siege, but the community remains displaced and in dire need of humanitarian aid.

International Response

The international community has condemned the persecution of Yazidis, with various organizations and countries offering aid and resettlement assistance to refugees. However, the Yazidi community continues to struggle with the aftermath of the genocide, including dealing with thousands of women and children who were enslaved by ISIL.

Cultural Impact

The persecution of Yazidis has had a profound impact on their culture and religious practices. Many Yazidis have been forced to flee their ancestral lands, leading to the diaspora of the community and the loss of cultural heritage. Efforts are being made to preserve Yazidi culture and religion, but the community's future remains uncertain.

Conclusion

The persecution of Yazidis is a stark reminder of the dangers of religious intolerance and misinformation. The international community's response to the Yazidi crisis will be a test of its commitment to human rights and the protection of minority groups.