In brief
Over 100 Syrian expatriates and supporters gathered in New York City this weekend to celebrate the dramatic fall of President Bashar al-Assad following recent rebel victories in Syria.
In Washington Square Park, a vibrant gathering erupted as around 100 attendees expressed their jubilation over the surprising news that President Bashar al-Assad had fled Syria amidst advancing rebel forces. Participants beat drums and sang revolutionary songs in Arabic, some engaging in the traditional Middle Eastern dance, dabke. Many waved the Syrian opposition flag, emblazoned with green, white, and black stripes along with three red stars.Chants against Assad filled the air, while humor surfaced with comments about potentially traveling to Moscow to confront him. As the revelry continued, attendees shared traditional foods, including baklava and shawarma, symbolizing their collective culture and heritage.Among the attendees was Marcelle Shehwaro, a 40-year-old activist from Aleppo, who fled in 2014 after facing severe repression for her political stance. While she expressed optimism over the recent developments, she also voiced her desire to savor this significant moment without dwelling on Syria's uncertain future.Another attendee, Hazem Alanani, 33, also from Aleppo, echoed Shehwaro's sentiments of fleeting hope and joy, reflecting on the hopelessness felt during Assad's regime. He remarked on the emotional weight of the situation and how, after years of struggle, the dreams they once rallied for were finally coming to fruition.As celebratory news continues to spread, many look toward the prospects of a new, liberated Syria while remembering the arduous journey that led them to this pivotal moment.
