Shengal (Sinjar) – Participants at the event emphasized that Jilan Berjis’s sacrifice has become a symbol of Yazidi women’s resilience. They renewed their calls for the official recognition of the Yazidi genocide, declaring, “We hope our rights are not denied and that we can live in freedom.”

In a special ceremony in Til Ezer village, Shengal, a tree was planted in her memory. Jilan Berjis was abducted by ISIS during the 74th genocide against the Yazidi community in 2014. Refusing to submit, she chose to preserve her dignity until the very end, taking her own life to escape enslavement.

Her mother and several relatives—also survivors of the genocide—attended the ceremony. They expressed pride in her bravery, affirming that her sacrifice continues to stand as a powerful symbol of Yazidi women’s defiance. Participants once again called for the formal recognition of the Yazidi genocide, emphasizing that their wounds remain open and justice has yet to be served.

‘Life was never the same’

Her mother, Shaima Diro, spoke of the deep pain she has carried since the genocide, describing how the tragedy continues to shadow every moment of her life. “Since then, I have not known a single day of joy. Grief has never left me. Thirty-three members of my family were taken by ISIS. After such loss, how could anyone feel happiness? Life has never been the same. As the anniversary approaches, the images of genocide return to haunt us,” she said.

She added that peace has eluded her and her children, insisting that her wounds will never heal no matter how much time passes. Yet she expressed pride in Jilan, describing her as a symbol of every Yazidi girl who gave her life for her faith and dignity.

‘We will hold on to our culture’

Activist Hiyam Ali highlighted the Yazidi community’s continuing suffering, stressing that the genocide still casts a shadow over their daily lives. “We came here to honor the martyrs and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. We hope our rights are not denied and that we can live like any free people,” she said.

Young woman Laila Khidir, who also lost many relatives to ISIS, affirmed: “These massacres struck my family as well. As long as we live, we will hold on to our culture and our faith.”