Society

December 8, 2024: A Dualism of Opportunity and Threat

“Any event [no matter its nature] is simultaneously an opportunity and a threat,” said a Syrian professor a few years ago. To seize the opportunity presented by the events of December 8, we should first recognize the accompanying threat and understand its facets. And before we extensively engage in political discussions and jostle to impose our opinions with respect to the structure of the upcoming political regime, we must ponder and address the societal issues that, if ignored, will impede building our country, especially in the midst of the “creative chaos” that we now live in.
So, what threat are we exactly facing? And what opportunity lies ahead? How can past mistakes be avoided? What is the most appropriate discourse style? This post seeks to address several issues that are directly related to ongoing social movement in Syria, in the hope of establishing a common ground on which everyone, as Syrians, can stand to engage in a meaningful discussion.

Secularism in Syria

Information that we hope is spread far and wide, as we witness the wildfire spread of false and even dangerous ideas about secularism within Syrian society. Awareness is the most important step and even a weapon. With the rapid changes we witness as Syrians, we must work together to reject exclusionary speech and which may even foster and support eventual violence against a segment(s) of society through misinformation and lack of dialogue. We must work together to build safe spaces that foster dialogue and which altogether eliminate the concept of “majority/minority groups”, working together as Syrians equally with all our differences across social standing, religion, and ethnic backgrounds.

Towards a New Syria

In the middle of all of these overwhelming feelings of hope, disappointment, uncertainty, and fear, I remember the voice of my father saying, “All people have the government they deserve.” I became furious every time he said this. In his statement, I saw blaming the victim and undeniable accusation towards people living under some kind of political regime, as if they have brought it to themselves! But now, I say it with him and see hope, promise, and recognition that the actions of individuals can determine the destiny of all. So, what threat are we exactly facing? And what opportunity lies ahead? How can past mistakes be avoided? What is the most appropriate discourse style? This post seeks to address several issues that are directly related to ongoing social movement in Syria, in the hope of establishing a common ground on which everyone, as Syrians, can stand to engage in a meaningful discussion.

The Baron Hotel: A Relic in Time

The Baron Hotel has long been one of the most cherished sights in Aleppo. It is a window into the past and a gallery of the city’s culture and history. Since its establishment a little over a century ago, it has mirrored the highs and lows of Aleppo. But sadly, this iconic hotel officially closed down earlier this year. In this post, we pay tribute to the incredible history of this Aleppan landmark.

Breaking Down Stereotypes: Debunking 9 Myths About Syrians in Turkey

Though 9 points or one post is far from enough to summarize the frustrations of 3.6 million Syrians, this post aims to shed light and debunk a few stereotypes they are dealing with. It is important to note that the intent is not to generalize all Turks but to shed light on the experiences and struggles many Syrians face in the country.

Fading Lights and Patient Souls: Celebrating Holidays of Hope in Syria

Over the past decade, a lot of attention has been directed towards Syria, the beating heart of the Middle East, which embodies a complex human story as it fights to maintain its identity in the face of conflict and political and social transformations. In this part of the world, life used to overflow with colors and holidays were filled with joy and brotherhood. However, things are different today, where holidays are looked upon with nostalgia and patience.

Perhaps the deeper meaning of holidays in Syria is the hope for reunion, unity and peace, with every passing holiday serving as a reminder that light is still shining through the darkness, and that life still goes on in the face of adversity.

I Dream of : the Day I Cross the Levant on a Borderless Trip Like my Grandparents did

I have always wanted to do this: get in my car, call my friends, pick them up, and hit the road. “Where do you wanna go?” I want to ask,…

Al Muhajireen Neighbourhood : History & Heritage

Walking along its narrow, branching and ascending staircases, Al-Muhajireen is a unique Damascene neighborhood unlike any other. Its history stretches back to 1899 when Nazim Pasha, Damascus’ Ottoman governor at the time, decided to settle Muslims from the Greek island of Crete who immigrated as a result of sectarian violence on the island. Over time, the neighborhood developed into a blend of immigrants of various ethnic groups, mostly from the Balkans and Circassia (southwest Russia). Al-Muhajireen gained further importance after Nazim Pasha built Al-Muhajireen Palace, which later became the residence of Syria’s first elected president, Muhammad al Abid, who decided during his tenure in office (1932-1936) to build a tramway line that connected the center of Damascus to Al-Muhajireen. Overlooking the city of Damascus on Mount Qasioun, Al-Muhajireen is a mesmerizing neighborhood for locals.

The Art of Mockery

Known to be a prominent strength in the Syrian (and Arab) community, mockery is the act of diminishing a serious matter by making it appear feeble, trivial, or even insignificant….

Violence of the Currency Crisis

“I don’t know how Syrians are surviving.” People have been uttering this sentence for over two years. For over two years, the prices of goods and services have been growing,…