Syrian fundraising event features the art of Iraqi refugees.

 

The Embassy of Canada in Damascus, Syria, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) co-sponsored a charity art auction to raise awareness and support for Iraqi refugees living in Syria. 

On November 11, 2009, as part of the UNHCR’s “Express Yourself” campaign, forty-three paintings by 20 Iraqi artists living in Damascus and Aleppo were featured. The auction raised approximately $15,000 and the proceeds were shared by the artists and a local charity that supports Iraqi refugees in Syria.

“This event combines profits for the artists with charity towards the neediest Iraqis. It is a great feeling to be able to help our own people with our modest means,” said 36-year-old artist Diyaa Al-Jazairy, who sold two paintings at the auction.

Since the outbreak of sectarian violence in Iraq in 2006, artists, musicians and professionals have been systematically targeted by religious extremists and criminal gangs, forcing many into exile. As a result, Syria now hosts the largest Iraqi refugee community in the world.

At the auction, UNHCR Syria Representative Renata Dubini thanked the Embassy for its support of the event and recognized Canada’s work in protecting some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

In 2009, Canada plans to resettle 3,900 Iraqi refugees, representing one third of Canada's global resettlement target. Canada expects to maintain this level of resettlement until at least 2011, which will mean some 12,000 Iraqi refugees will be resettled over three years.

The UNHCR’s “Express Yourself” campaign was launched in 2007 to promote Iraqi talent and give refugees the opportunity to raise their fears, hopes and perspectives. Over the past three years, the campaign has featured major concerts, exhibitions, workshops, music albums and activities focussed on children.

“The evening raised awareness and support for Iraqi refugees living in Syria and exhibits the amazing talent and resilience of Iraqi artists who continue to pursue their artistic vision despite the challenges they face living in exile.” – Canadian Immigration Program Manager Bruce Scoffield

 

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