Circassian Mourning Day at "The Space"

For those who are called to learn, listen, grieve, and be together this May 21...

May 21, 2024 will mark 160 years since the end of the Circassian genocide.

What does it mean for a genocide to end? Is the end of a genocide marked when the colonizer completes their "claimed" conquering of the colonized's land? The suffering endured by Circassians and North Caucasians alike in the days, months, years, and decades of their genocide remains significant, and is carried through the diaspora's children.

These thoughts and questions are what bring us here today. We will learn about who the Circassians are, the genocide inflicted upon the Circassian people, and how the Circassian genocide connects to the ongoing genocide in Palestine. We believe our history as descendants of genocide must move us to action for Palestinian liberation.

Paired with learning and listening about these past / ongoing histories will be a group prayer. The prayer is what you make of it, whether that is to grieve, mourn, hope, or experience all of these emotions together. It is for you to feel the feelings you haven't been able to express, safely.

This event is hosted by Maya Abaza & Sammy Samkough, with the help of members of our community. We are not affiliated with any organizations / groups—this is an event that is open to all. Light Circassian foods and tea will be served.

Space is limited so please, kindly RSVP using the form below if you will be joining us:

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The image at the top is a painting done in 1872 by Pyotr Nikolayevich Gruzinsky with the description, "The abandonment of the village by the mountaineers as the Russian troops approached".