Assyrians lived between Euphrates and Tigris, also known as the fertile crescent. They were the first followers of Jesus Christ. Their descendants were living in modern-day Turkey, Iraq, and Syria. Assyrians today celebrate 6762 years on an "Akitu" day in Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. I covered these celebrations, held annually on April 1. They gather from all around the world to celebrate their new year in their ancestral lands. There are still Assyrians living in this area who are trying to keep their culture alive, along with their identity and religion. They have their political party in the Kurdish Parliament and their brigade in the Pesmarga force. They are still practicing Christianity (and keeping the heritage of their first Christian ancestors). What pulls me into this subject is their resilience and will to maintain their tradition and identity alive despite the hardships they've endured in the past centuries.
About Me
I am a documentary photographer trying to reveal the innocence and bizarreness of the subject I am working on. I prefer to work on long-term projects. I devote a long period to my projects to discover the most significant moments and create a unique perspective. Each project reflects my growth and whom I am in this universe—trying to define myself through my projects. Born in Turkey, with a multicultural background, I have completed the Creative Documentary and Photojournalism Course with Magnum Photos in Paris.
Currently based in Paris, France
You can reach out to me via e-mail: huseyinabdik@gmail.com www.huseyinabdik.com