Professor of History Nicholas Rogers

Aveen Professor of History Nicholas Rogers

The Yazidis were a largely unknown people until they faced a genocide a few years ago. They inhabit mostly the region of the north of Syria and Iraq. When the so-called, self-styled Islamic State group launched their barbaric 'mission' to radicalise and exterminate large groups of 'unbelievers' who stood in their way, the Yazidis were targeted as devil-worshippers and many women and children were abducted as 'spoils of war'. The Yazidis are a peaceful race and their faith likewise. I was touched by their simplicity and great courage in the face of their 72nd genocide. Aveen, in real-life, is a nineteen year old Yazidi woman who fights for the PKK and is prepared to face head on her abducters in battle. Her story and others likewise touched my heart.