10 years after the genocide: Yazidis tell of hope and pain

Reflection on trauma and hope: Documentary on Yazidi identity

On August 3, 2024, the genocide of the "Islamic State" in the Yazidi community in northern Iraq marks the tenth time. These terrible events not only led to an enormous loss of life, but also to the expulsion and uprooting of an entire culture and religion. The new documentary "Bêmal - Heimlos", which will be available in the ARD Mediathek from August 2, addresses the experiences of young survivors and shows how strong the will is to build a new future despite all the adversities.

The stories of survivors

The film by Düzen Tekkal and David Körzdörfer urgently documents the life stories of four siblings who survived the horrors of the genocide. These young people report on their experiences with violence, captivity and enslavement, but also offer a message of hope and new beginning. Jihan and Sawsan Alomar, who spent many years in the catch of IS, are an example of the will to survive. After their liberation, they came to Germany through an initiative of the state of Baden-Württemberg, where Sawsan was recently united with their family.

escape and fresh start in Germany

The escape of the Yazidi community to Germany reflects the search for many for a safe harbor. Layla and Tahsin Mirza, who fled over the Mediterranean, show how integration can succeed in domestic society. While Layla works as a model and raises her voice for all women who want to live their dreams, Tahsin is committed as a theater teacher and comedian. Their stories are not only individual fates, but part of a larger trend: the inclusion of refugees and the struggle for a new life in a foreign country.

The role of society

The difficulties with which the new fellow citizens are confronted are often enormous. BASCAL and Jana Kheyri, who are training in geriatric care in Bavaria, are exemplary for the challenges of refugee people. They carry the burdens of their past and the uncertainty regarding their families at home - a significant part of the history of integration.

The value of dignity and hope

"Bêmal - homeless" goes beyond personal stories and addresses universal values ​​such as dignity, peace and freedom. The documentary can be seen as a chronicle of the genocide, but also provides a look into the future. It underlines the importance of working for human rights and telling the stories of these survivors in order to keep the collective memory awake.

a documentary that offers more than just entertainment

The production of "Bêmal - Homeland" by the German Dream Productions in cooperation with Radio Bremen and SWR is an urgent example of the potential of the media to promote self -image and open dialogue. The film is not only a work of art, but also a call to solidarity with one of the most traumatized communities in the world. The message is clear: the longing for a safe home is a deeply human need.

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