President Barzani Sends Jama Festival Greetings to Ezidis in Kurdistan and Worldwide
President Masoud Barzani reaffirms support for Ezidis’ rights and legitimate demands, wishing the community peace and security during the religious festival
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — President Masoud Barzani on Tuesday extended warm greetings to the Ezidi community in the Kurdistan Region and around the world on the occasion of the Jama festival, expressing hope that they would celebrate the religious occasion in peace and security and reaffirming his support for their rights and legitimate demands.
In his message, Barzani addressed the Ezidi spiritual and religious community and all Ezidis of Kurdistan and the world, wishing them a peaceful and safe celebration.
"On the occasion of Jama festival, I extend my warmest congratulations to the spiritual and religious community and to all Ezidis of Kurdistan and the world," Barzani said.
He expressed hope that Ezidis would observe their religious occasions freely and in an atmosphere of peace and security.
Barzani also reaffirmed his continued support for the protection of the community's rights and legitimate demands, assuring Ezidis that he would remain supportive of their cause.
Jama festival and Ezidi heritage
Jama, one of the most important religious festivals in the Ezidi faith, is traditionally held at Lalish, the community's principal holy site in the Kurdistan Region.
The festival brings together Ezidis from different communities for religious rituals, prayers and ceremonies that are deeply rooted in their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Lalish, located in Duhok province, remains the spiritual center of the Ezidi faith and has historically served as a place of pilgrimage for Ezidis from Kurdistan and abroad.
The festival also carries particular significance for the Ezidi community following years of displacement and persecution, including the ISIS assault on Sinjar in 2014, when thousands of Ezidis were killed, abducted or displaced.
The Kurdistan Region has hosted large numbers of displaced Ezidis since the ISIS attacks, while efforts have continued to support their return, preserve their cultural and religious identity, and address outstanding issues affecting the community.
President Barzani concluded his message by wishing the Ezidi community continued prosperity and happiness.