In Syria, the perception of being on the regime’s “wanted” list has evolved from fear to pride, as citizens now inquire about their status with enthusiasm. This shift demonstrates resilience against past oppression, as many openly celebrate their defiance against a brutal dictatorship.
In Syria, perceptions surrounding being “wanted” have dramatically shifted from fear to a form of pride. Previously, these lists, maintained by the ousted Assad regime, placed millions of Syrians at risk of persecution. Today, individuals like Kazem Togan, who recently returned after a twelve-year absence, seek confirmation of their status among those lists with optimism rather than dread.
Mr. Togan, a former journalist for opposition media, expressed his exhilaration upon learning of his status, stating, “Today, every Syrian asks as a matter of routine, ‘Was I wanted?’” This highlights a broader cultural shift where those who were once terrified now wear their wanted status as a badge of honor.
For over fifty years, the Assad dictatorship ruled through fear, with citizens marked by the threat of detention by various intelligence branches. The phrase “having a name” signified a potential path to imprisonment or worse. Yet now, many openly inquire about their past affiliations, demonstrating a newfound sense of pride in having resisted oppressive authority.
The transformation in Syria regarding the concept of being ‘wanted’ illustrates a significant cultural shift from terror to pride. This change reflects a collective resilience among Syrians who faced brutal repression under the Assad regime. The act of openly discussing their statuses symbolizes a form of defiance against the past, as many embrace their historical struggles as a testament to their courage.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
