The Ancient Yezidi Religion and Their Persecution

This session focuses on the ancient, indigenous Middle Eastern Yezidi religious tradition, its culture, history, and continuing persecution. Yazidism is an ancient monotheistic faith, based on a belief in one God, who created the world and entrusted it into the care of a Heptad of seven Holy Beings, often known as Angels or heft sirr (the Seven Mysteries). This session looks at its links with other later Middle Eastern monotheistic traditions, as well as with Eastern religious traditions. It also focuses on the genocide this community has faced into modern times and possible solutions. The session discussion is followed by a Q&A with the audience.