Preserving Memories: Syrians Take Steps to Secure the Legacy of Their Revolution

Syrians are collecting artifacts from the 14-year struggle against the Assad regime, including banners, torture implements, and prison relics, to ensure the painful lessons of their history are preserved for the future.

In the wake of Syria's long and brutal civil war, a determined effort is underway among citizens to preserve the artifacts and memories of a revolution that fought against oppression. The conflict, marked by the struggle against the regime of Bashar al-Assad, has spanned nearly 14 years, and now many are seeking to memorialize this tumultuous period in hopes of preventing history from repeating itself.

Across the country, from Azaz to Damascus, individuals like Mutassim Abdulsatir, a survivor of the infamous Sednaya prison, are gathering various items, including banners, protest posters, and even implements of torture. They believe these relics will serve not only as a testament to the sacrifices made but also as a sobering reminder of what can occur when tyranny reigns unchecked.

“This is not just about the past; it’s about warning future generations,” Abdulsatir emphasized. “If we forget what happened here, we risk allowing it to happen again.” His passion for preservation drives him to salvage nooses found at Sednaya, envisioning a future exhibition that tells the story of pain and resilience.

The endeavor also encompasses recovering digital records and documents from the former government, aiming to establish justice and accountability for the atrocities committed throughout the war. The movement to keep these memories alive transcends personal loss, offering a collective reminder that the tribulations faced by Syrians should never be forgotten, neither within their borders nor around the world.