The Al-Mada Reading Club teamed up with the Goethe-Institute and organized a unique cultural trip that brought Kurdish and Arab youth together in the heart of Kurdistan. The group traveled to the sacred Yazidi temples in Lalish, and they explored the Zakho Book Fair as part of a wider effort to strengthen coexistence and dialogue.
The organizers designed the trip to encourage direct interaction among young people from different communities. Therefore, the participants visited Lalish first, where local guides explained the history of the Yazidi faith and its symbolic conical domes. The youth walked through the temple grounds, asked questions, and discussed the importance of protecting religious diversity. Many participants said the visit deepened their respect for Yazidi traditions.
After the temple tour, the group continued their journey toward Zakho. They reached the annual book fair and spent several hours meeting authors, discovering new titles, and attending open discussions. The fair gave the youth a chance to share literary interests and build connections through reading. It also showed how books can reduce social barriers and inspire cooperation.
Throughout the trip, organizers encouraged open dialogue. The youth exchanged ideas about cultural identity, regional challenges, and the need for stronger community ties. They emphasized that joint cultural experiences can counter division more effectively than political debates.
The journey ended with a renewed commitment to coexistence. The participants left with new friendships, wider knowledge, and a shared belief that cultural exchange strengthens the entire Region.