Yezidis

The Yezidis are a ethnoreligious group indigenous to Mesopotamia. Their religion, Yezidism, is ancient and syncretic, drawing influences from Zoroastrianism, ancient Mesopotamian religions, Christianity, and Islam. A central figure in their faith is Melek Taus, often translated as the Peacock Angel, who is viewed as a benevolent intermediary between God and humanity. Yezidi religious practices include unique rituals, prayers, and festivals, with Lalesh is their holiest site.

Historically, Yezidis have faced persecution due to misinterpretations of their faith, often being mistakenly labeled as devil-worshippers. This has led to significant diaspora communities, particularly in Europe, North America, and Australia. The Yezidi community has a distinct language, a dialect of Kurdish known as Kurmanji. Their cultural heritage is rich in oral traditions, music, and storytelling. Recent history has been marked by immense suffering, particularly the genocide perpetrated against them by ISIS in 2014, which resulted in widespread displacement, enslavement, and murder. Despite these challenges, the Yezidi community strives to preserve their identity and traditions.