Deir- az-Zur- Products made of reeds have been used for decoration all around the world. Handcrafted reed products are the means of livelihood for women living in the Hecînê district of Deir- az-Zur. The reeds shaped by the women are used for building roofs or decoration. The women, who lived under the control of ISIS for years, have managed to preserve their culture and to make a living by making products made of reeds.  

“I learned how to give shape to reeds from my grandmother”

45-year-old Meryem El Hemûd has given shape to reeds since she was 15 years old. “I learned how to give shape to reeds from my grandmother. Before, all houses in our villages were made of reeds. We preserve this culture. I work hard but I am happy to work.”

“Beginners have difficulties to learn”

The Hecînê district is located near the Euphrates. Meryem El Hemûd told us living close to the river is an advantage to have this profession. The women living in the district first collect reeds. After washing and drying them, they give shape to reeds. Meryem El Hemûd has no difficulties to shape reeds, “But the beginners have difficulties to learn.”

“Products made of reeds are healthier”

Women, children, elders, and young people help each other to give shape to reeds in the district. Many families living close to the Euphrates make a living by shaping reeds. “The products made of reeds are healthier,” Meryem El Hemûd told us. 

“I like doing this job”

50-year-old Hasna El Alî also lives in the Hecînê district. Despite her age, she keeps making products made of reeds to make a living for her family. “I cannot carry reeds anymore but we have a car to carry them now. I have shaped reeds as far as I remember. I like doing this job. We use reeds not just for decoration but also for building roofs and walls. People prefer using them because they are durable.”