The Essence of Freedom
Freedom is an intangible quality – something you feel, something you experience. If, that is, you are fortunate enough to live in a place where freedom is permitted. The sad reality is that, for many, freedom is just a distant hope.
For Syrian women living under ISIS control, freedom is a dream rather than a reality.
They are forced to cover themselves head to toe in not one, but two layers of black veils before being allowed to leave the house. Just imagine how hot that must be! I'm having a hard time breathing just thinking about it.
The women are also required to have a male companion accompany them everywhere they go.
And many women and young girls are being forced into sexual slavery.
The women are also required to have a male companion accompany them everywhere they go.
And many women and young girls are being forced into sexual slavery.
But one group of Syrian women were fortunate enough to escape. And when they did, thankfully videographer Shervan Derwish and photographer Jack Shahine were on hand to capture these powerful images of the women as they experienced their first taste of freedom.
As they crossed into ‘safe' areas controlled by the Kurdish YDP (People's Protection Unit), these women yanked off their veils in a stunning display of independence. As the sun kissed their exposed skin for the first time in ages, the women let out shouts of utter joy.
All credit & appreciation for these incredible photos go to footage owner: @servankobane Shervan Derwish #Kobani pic.twitter.com/8qIFyiZdMM
- Jack Shahine (@jackshahine) June 6, 2015
These images are a stunning reminder of the amazing privileges we get to enjoy every day. God has blessed us with the amazing gift of freedom. Please keep those in your prayers who are victims of such oppression.
h/t: Refinery 29
Featured Image Credit: Twitter
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