First in our series of Syria’s religious makeup: the Druze. We aim to educate ourselves and our fellow Syrians on the history and communities of our country. Misinformation often grows vastly and knowledge about one another is a vital way to achieve coexistence and move forward. The Druze faith is a syncretic monotheistic faith that is also esoteric and largely secretive. While the faith has some connections to Abrahamic religions and is often mistakenly linked to Islam, today it is a distinct faith with distinct practices, and almost all Druze do not identify as Muslims. Roughly half of the worldwide Druze population is located in Syria where they form the fourth or fifth largest religious group in the country (3-4%), (following Sunni Muslims, Alawites & Christians, preceding Shia Muslims & Ismailis (however they may possibly replace the Druze today as 4th largest, placing the Druze in 5th place)) Edit: Druze are also located in Northern Jordan forming 0.5-1% of the country. This places them in the light pink category on the map with Idlib Governorate.

Louris Maher was a pioneer of Syrian medicine and feminism. She not only became the first Syrian woman doctor in 1936, but also published books, founded a baby food factory, and defied the oppressive norms of her time. Her story is an inspiration for all Syrians who aspire for a better and more equal future.

The vineyards of Syria recover the ancient local practices of winemaking in the region, persisting even through the war, a testament to the continuity of Syrians.

Syria’s material culture is rich and diverse, but it is also endangered by the threats of war, globalization, and colonization. R’s Culture is a project that aims to support Syrian artists, craftworkers, and culture by providing authentically-made Syrian goods to people abroad. By buying these products, you are not only getting high-quality and unique items, but also helping to preserve and spread Syria’s heritage and culture.

How does one capture the essence of a city that has been ravaged by war, yet still holds a glimmer of hope and resilience? Issa Touma, a Syrian photographer and cinematographer, has dedicated his life and art to answering this question. Through his films, photographs, and initiatives, he reveals the stories of Aleppo and its people, from the horrors of the conflict to the joys of everyday life.

Syria is home to a diverse and rich mosaic of cultures, among them the Circassians, an ethnic group from the Northern Caucasus region. The Circassians have a tragic history of genocide, displacement, and assimilation, but also a proud heritage of resistance, adaptation, and contribution. In this article, we explore the origins, history, and current situation of the Circassian community in Syria, and how they cope with the challenges of war, identity, and memory.

“Happy Eid” messages have yet again bombarded my phone... Year after year, I look at the messages sent by family and friends whom I haven’t seen in years, and the irony of these two words leave me staring back at them wondering, we are not happy.

Syrians in the diaspora face a dilemma: how to keep their identity alive while adapting to a new environment. This article explores the struggles and joys of being Syrian in Canada, through the lens of personal stories and reflections.

“She knew everything all these years.” Mama and my Queer Identity- an anonymous submission from Aleppo.

Challenging society for the sake of women and a better Syria.

Happy International Women’s Day. Today we celebrate Syrian women. Dima Al Chaar is one Syrian woman that shared her story with us. A pioneer in the food industry, and we all know how much we love our food as Syrians, the chef seeks to revitalize the industry in Syria.

Ayah's life is a tale of resilience etched with tragedy and determination. From the shattered ruins of her homeland in Homs to the unfamiliarity of Jordan and then the promise of a new life in Canada, her journey was marred by loss but fueled by unwavering ambition. Despite profound sorrow and unfathomable responsibilities thrust upon her, she persists as a beacon of hope, shaping her path toward medical school, epitomizing the strength and tenacity that defines her spirit.