Sema
In recognition of the sacrifice and resilience of the Yazidi community in Sinjar (Shingal), especially the Yazidi girls who have become symbols of honor and dignity, a statue of the martyr Jilan Birjas has been erected in the town of Bashiqa in the Mosul district.
Official statement regarding the statue:
The Bashiqa Municipality Directorate issued a statement with the following text: “Our history is full of the sacrifices of martyrs who gave their lives for their values and principles. It is our duty to appreciate and respect these sacrifices that have allowed us to live in freedom and dignity. Martyrs remain examples of courage and sacrifice, reminding us of the importance of sticking to noble principles and values until the end. Commemorating the martyrs through the statue of the martyr Jilan Birjas Nayef, who was captured during the invasion of ISIS terrorists, adds to the beauty and authenticity of the Olive City and reinforces the values of pride and loyalty. Thanks to their great sacrifices, we live in freedom and peace. Let us always preserve their memory and pray for mercy and forgiveness for all the martyrs of Iraq.”
Biography of the Yazidi martyr Jilan Birjas:
Jilan Birjas Nayef was born in Tel Azir. Her family was massacred by ISIS in August 2014. Afterward, she was kidnapped by ISIS. While in captivity, Jilan refused to submit to ISIS. On August 20 of the same year, she ended her life while in the hands of ISIS in the district of Ba’aj, cutting the veins in her hand, refusing to become a sex slave for ISIS.
Symbol of Honor and Sacrifice:
After ending her life, Jilan’s act and sacrifice became a symbol of honor and sacrifice, especially for the Yazidi girls who were captured by ISIS and refused to surrender. A statue of Jilan had previously been erected in her birthplace, Tel Azir. This is the second statue dedicated to her, now placed in the town of Bashiqa in the Mosul district.