The crisis involving refugees from Syria is a multifaceted problem rooted in various interconnected factors. At the heart of the mass exodus is the Syrian Civil War that erupted in 2011. This conflict originated from an uprising within Syria against the Syrian government and its president, Bashar Al-Assad. Many people were unhappy about the high levels of unemployment, widespread corruption, and lack of political freedom.
Inspired by the 'Arab Spring' uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt, Syrian citizens protested peacefully. However, the peaceful demonstrations were met by swift government opposition. The regime used deadly force to crush the dissent, and protests erupted nationwide. The violence rapidly escalated, eventually giving way to a brutal war. The conflict has forced millions of Syrians to flee their homes, and according to the UN Refugee Agency, since 2011, more than 14 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety. More than 6.8 million Syrians remain internally displaced in their own country, where 70 percent of the population needs humanitarian assistance.
The documentary "A Step Without Feet" offers an insightful look into the emotional and psychological experiences of Syrian refugees resettling in Germany. The film highlights the profound effects of displacement, presenting it as more than a physical move but a journey marked by the loss of history, identity, and belonging. The film captures the duality of this journey—the sorrow of leaving behind a part of oneself and the hopeful aspiration towards building a new life in an alien land. One refugee shares, "Leaving Syria was like losing a part of my soul. I left behind my home, my memories, and a piece of my heart." This sentiment highlights a deep connection to their land; it is not just a place they call home but a crucible of memories, relationships, and cultural identity. Leaving Syria involves a painful severing of ties with one's roots and an uncertain quest for a new place in the world.
Abdullah, one of the refugees, is a musician who believes in embracing his humanity beyond the label of "Refugee." Refugees are often seen only through the lens of their circumstances rather than as individuals with diverse backgrounds. There can be fears or perceptions that refugees will not integrate into the host society or that their presence will dilute the host country's culture. However, Abdullah highlights respecting others' beliefs and embracing diversity as an essential part of freedom. He mentions the contrasting attitudes toward liberty in Europe, where it is often taken for granted, and the personal sacrifices made for freedom in the wake of the Arab Spring.
The film's strength lies in its depiction of the transformative power of art. Each participant underlines the profound importance of music and dance in their lives, serving as vital links to their Syrian heritage and as critical conduits for engaging with their memories of home. Music and dance create a seamless connection between their past and present, enabling the refugees to maintain their cultural heritage while adapting to new roles and environments. These art forms can bridge gaps, heal wounds, and create a sense of belonging in a world often divided by cultural and linguistic differences.
As each interviewee described the difficulty of starting over in a new country, they all expressed determination and hope to build a future and contribute positively to their new community. When asked what their favorite word is, most said "Sham," meaning Damascus. By naming "Sham" as their favorite word, the refugees are expressing a deep-seated longing for their homeland and the return to a life that once was.
Comentarios