DAMASCUS, SYRIA - MAY 21, 2025: For the first time, Syria’s capital hosted a public ceremony commemorating the Circassian exile, one of the most tragic events in modern history. The event marked the 161st anniversary of the forced expulsion of the Circassian people from the Caucasus region by Tsarist Russia. Starting on May 21, 1864, hundreds of thousands of Circassians were expelled to various parts of the world—particularly the Ottoman Empire. Nearly 1.5 million Circassians were exiled within a month, according to unofficial figures. Up to half a million are believed to have died along the way due to starvation, disease, and harsh travel conditions. In Damascus, hundreds gathered at Tishreen Park and marched in silence to Umayyad Square, carrying Circassian flags and signs bearing messages such as: “May 21: Circassian Day of Mourning – We Will Not Forget Our History or Abandon Our Cause,” “Our Identity Endures – Justice Is Coming,” and “History Cannot Be Erased – Massacres Cannot Be Forgotten.” A moment of silence was observed at the square in honor of those who died during the exile. Speaking to Anadolu, Mohammed Ali, one of the attendees, said: “This is the first time we’ve been able to hold a public commemoration since the fall of the Ba'ath regime. Such events were not allowed under the previous government. Today, we come together to honor our ancestors and raise awareness of our cause.” Calling it a deeply emotional occasion, Ali added: “We were exiled 161 years ago. That’s why we understand the pain of the Syrian people.” He also expressed a heartfelt wish to one day see the Circassian homeland. Simaze Azir, another participant, said she joined the gathering to remember the suffering of her ancestors: “We are an inseparable part of the Syrian people. We’re grateful to the current government for allowing this event to take place.” Celine Kasem, a Circassian activist, described the commemoration as a milestone for Syrian civil society: “This is the first time such an event has been held. In post-Ba'ath Syria, people are finally able to gather freely to share their grief and hopes..” Kasem noted that the suffering endured by the Circassians exiled to Syria 161 years ago continued in similar ways under the former regime. Sara Abdi, a Syrian Circassian who traveled from Türkiye to attend the ceremony, said: “I came to Syria to witness this moment. Now that the Assad regime is gone, we can finally speak freely. Events like this were banned in the past. We’re happy to be able to share our memories.”