The Islamic State is a scourge not only for Americans and Europeans, many of whom have lost their lives in terrorist attacks orchestrated by the organization, but also for Muslims and other religious minorities living within ISIS's self-proclaimed borders.
The Yazidi people are one of the many religious and ethnic minority groups persecuted by ISIS. This week, a local belly dancing troupe, Auburn's Village Plains Tribal Fusion, will host a showcase to benefit Yazidi women who escaped enslaved by ISIS militants.
“As belly dancers, we have fallen in love with an art form borrowed from other cultures,” said Alex Johnson, director of Village Plains Tribal Fusion who performs under the stage name Arianna. “By helping support women facing terrible tragedy in our dance’s homeland, we’re able to give back and make a difference in some small way.”
The dancers, some of which are students and others who are hobbyists, will perform July 16 to raise money for their cause. The event is planned for 5 p.m. on Saturday at Celtic Traditions, 2705 Frederick Road in Opelika.
The Village Plains Tribal Fusion troupe's event is part of an international initiative called Hafla for Humanity. Hafla means party in Arabic, but also refers to informal dance events and recitals.
Belly dancers will perform in more than 25 cities around the globe for during the international event. The money raised will benefit the AMAR Foundation's Escaping Darkness campaign.
The campaign provides training for local doctors who offer crisis care for the women escaping ISIS's clutches.
Last year, the organization raised more than $20,000 in support of the efforts, according to the troupe's press release.
At the troupe's event, there will be guest dancers from all over the country, including some from Orlando and New York. There will also be provided refreshments.
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