Hope Givers Group (Yazidi survivors boys)
We are a group of Yazidi boys, originally from Sinjar, who were taken as captives by ISIS in 2014. Most of us later became child soldiers. We were rescued at different times and we currently live across several IDP camps in the Kurdistan Region. Most of us have also lost other family members.
The objective of this group is to bring attention to the plight of the boys and male children who suffered under ISIS, particularly Yazidi boys who survived after ISIS indoctrination and enslavement.
We believe that very little attention has been given to the male survivors generally, particulate male children. This neglect has severely impacted our recovery. Many of us continue to suffer severe trauma, health issues, as well other issues such as the inability to continue our education, obtain housing, legal paperwork, and reintegration to live a normal life.
We have created this group to raise awareness and speak up against the crimes ISIS committed against children. We are seeking support for ourselves and other male children and boys survivors.
Hope Givers goals
To raise awareness about the plight of male children and boys who fell to ISIS captivity and indoctrination.
• To advocate for searching for, locating, and liberating remaining boys and children captives.
• To advocate for services and support from the government and civil society to address
various challenges we and our peers face with recovery and reintegration.
• To support boys and children to access education after they were forced out of school.
• To advocate for employment opportunities for survivors.
• To advocate for psychological services for survivors.
• To advocate for better shelter outside IDP camps for survivors and their families.
• To advocate for family to be reunited.
About Hope Givers Group: Empowering Yazidi Boys Survivors
Hope Givers Group comprises a resilient and determined community of Yazidi boys hailing from Sinjar. In the dark shadow of 2014, we were taken captive by ISIS, and many of us endured the harrowing experience of becoming child soldiers. Over time, we were rescued and currently reside across various IDP camps in the Kurdistan Region. Sadly, we have also lost cherished family members along the way.
Our Objective: Amplifying Voices of Suffering
The primary mission of our group is to draw attention to the plight of boys and male children who endured the horrors of ISIS captivity, particularly Yazidi boys who survived indoctrination and enslavement. In a world where male survivors, especially young boys, have received little recognition, we aim to shed light on the unique challenges we face.
The Impact of Neglect: Navigating Ongoing Struggles
Neglect and lack of attention have significantly impacted our journey towards recovery. Many of us bear the weight of severe trauma, health issues, and obstacles in accessing fundamental necessities, such as education, housing, legal documentation, and reintegration into a normal life.
A Beacon of Hope: Advocating for Change
United in our resolve, we established the Hope Givers Group to raise awareness and stand up against the atrocities committed by ISIS against innocent children. Our mission is not limited to seeking support for ourselves; we advocate for all male children and boys survivors who strive to rebuild their lives.
Hope Givers Goals: A Call to Action
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Raising Awareness: We are committed to spreading awareness about the plight of male children and boys who suffered under ISIS captivity and indoctrination. Through sharing our stories, we seek to ignite empathy and encourage positive change.
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Locating and Liberating Captives: We advocate tirelessly for the search, location, and liberation of any remaining boys and children who are still trapped in captivity. No child should be left behind in the shadows of oppression.
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Recovery and Reintegration Support: Our voices advocate for comprehensive services and support from the government and civil society. Addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors is vital for their healing and successful reintegration.
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Education for All: Education is a fundamental right. We champion the cause of supporting boys and children who were forced out of school, ensuring they have access to education and the chance to shape their own destinies.
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Empowering Employment Opportunities: As survivors, we deserve the opportunity to rebuild our lives. We advocate for employment opportunities that empower us to support ourselves and create a stable future.
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Psychological Services: Healing from the traumas of the past is a journey that requires support. We advocate for accessible and specialized psychological services, enabling survivors to reclaim their emotional well-being.
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Safe Shelter and Family Reunification: We strive to secure safe shelter outside IDP camps for survivors and their families. Additionally, we advocate for the reunification of families torn apart by conflict, providing a nurturing environment for healing and hope.
Join the Hope Givers Movement
As Hope Givers, we stand united in the belief that transformation is possible. We invite you to join our movement, amplify our voices, and advocate for justice, healing, and empowerment for all male survivors. Together, we can rewrite the narrative of suffering into one of strength, support, and hope.