The Unbreakable Spirit of a True Artist

This article is about Hales Murad, a Ezidi girl who at the age of four in Sharya, Iraq, stubbornly refused to get off a tractor she had just proudly taken possession of. Only when a police officer bribed her with chocolate did she finally give in and let go of the tractor. There was probably no other way to separate Hales from this tractor. This story just highlights the strong spirit of the Ezidi artist who at a young age showcased traits of a true and brave artist.

Hales Murad
A passionate Ezidi artist and advocate, Hales Murad uses her art to raise awareness about the Ezidi culture and the struggles her people has faced, including the horrors of the 2014 genocide. Through her powerful paintings, she fights prejudice, preserves her heritage, and empowers her people, all while pursuing her academic and professional dreams in Germany. Hales’s work is a testament to the resilience, strength, and unbreakable spirit of the Ezidi people.

Today, almost 18 years later, Hales Murad is studying for a bachelor’s degree in teaching in Germany. Before pursuing her studies, worked as a child educator, became member of the board of directors of a Ezidi youth association, and was awarded a scholarship by the German Business Foundation. Her passion is art. She creates paintings focused on specific themes, such as the Ezidi religion (Sharfadin) and culture. Having sold several pieces, she fulfilled her dream of hosting her own exhibition. Yet, at times, the artist reflects in wonder on how the “stubborn little group” from her village managed to get this far.

In 2007, Hales fled to Germany with her mother and sister—a country she eventually came to not only appreciate but, one might say, love, for both its freedoms and its values. As a Ezidi, an ethnic people that has faced centuries of persecution, the concept of freedom holds great significance for Hales. She came to deeply understand the value of freedom through the atrocities committed by Islamist groups. The most recent of over 70 Ezidi genocides occurred on August 3, 2014, with thousands of women still held captive by ISIS. “We have lived in captivity long enough; now it is time to stand up for our freedom and our rights,” says Hales.

Many states lack accurate or sufficient knowledge about Ezidi women, often misunderstanding their identity and mistakenly classifying them as part of the Kurdish community. This misperception jeopardizes the independence of Ezidi women. Hatred and threats against them are increasingly spreading online, fueled by widespread misinformation, often propagated by non-Ezidis. Politically, many Kurdish politicians are exploiting the situation, attempting to gain votes in Iraq under the guise of supporting the Ezidis. Meanwhile, behind closed doors, the same politicians contribute to the growing hate directed toward the Ezidi people.

To ensure that Ezidis don’t continue to fall victim to violent attacks by anti-Ezidi groups, it is important to stick together, grow and draw people’s attention. “We can turn our minority status into a strength, fight for our rights, be creative, and choose freedom.“

Her art is an unapologetic declaration of their existence, their dignity, and their right to live freely, without fear or persecution. In the face of centuries of suffering and the horrors of the 2014 genocide, Hales has chosen to speak through her art—offering the world a glimpse into the beauty, strength, and spirit of a people who have endured unimaginable hardship.

Hales Murads dedication to the Ezidi people, her courage to stand up against injustice, and her ability to transform pain into art are a testament to the unbreakable spirit that resides within her. Hales’s journey is just beginning, and the world is lucky to have such a powerful, fearless voice for freedom and identity.

To show your support for Hales Murad and stay connected with her work, follow her on Instagram. By following her, you can stay updated on her latest artwork, exhibitions, and efforts to raise awareness about the Ezidi people. Your support is a powerful way to help amplify the voices of those fighting for freedom and justice.