In brief
In a momentous occasion for many, Syrian expatriates expressed their joy in the streets of Manhattan following reports that President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia amid a rebel offensive.
Around 100 people gathered in Washington Square Park on Sunday afternoon to mark a significant historical shift with the fall of President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, who reportedly fled his country after rebel forces took control of the capital. Celebrants, including Syrian expatriates and their allies, beat drums, sang revolutionary songs in Arabic, and formed circles to perform the dabke, a traditional Middle Eastern dance symbolizing celebration. Among the crowd were those wrapped in the Syrian opposition flag, marked with green, white, and black stripes accompanied by three vivid red stars.As news circulated that Russian and Iranian officials had stated Mr. al-Assad had sought refuge in Russia, attendees voiced anti-Assad sentiments while humorously contemplating a journey to ensure his departure from there too. Community members shared traditional Syrian delicacies like baklava and shawarma, further brightening the atmosphere of merriment.Marcelle Shehwaro, a 40-year-old Syrian activist from Aleppo, expressed a cautious joy at this pivotal moment. Forced to leave Syria due to her political activism and the tragic loss of her mother to government forces, Ms. Shehwaro had long since accepted that returning home might never be possible. Yet, as reports emerged of rebels liberating political prisoners held under Assad's regime, she felt a rush of hope.“I want to embrace this moment instead of worrying about the future,” Ms. Shehwaro stated, adding that she has recently reconnected with family members who had been fearful of contacting her for a dozen years.Another attendee, Hazem Alanani, 33, also hailing from Aleppo and working in healthcare IT since his departure from Syria in 2019, shared a similar sentiment. Having faced questioning from the secret police for his political activities, he described a profound sense of hopelessness that enveloped many Syrians as Assad's government solidified its grasp over the country.“This weekend’s developments struck me with disbelief,” Mr. Alanani remarked through tears. “Everything we fought for during the early days of the revolution is finally manifesting into reality.” The atmosphere in Washington Square Park this weekend reflected the multitude of hopes and dreams pinned on a future free from oppression, illustrating the resilience of those who long for change in Syria.
