The Story
How a small town in rural Idlib became a global voice for peaceful resistance
In 2011, when the Syrian revolution erupted, the people of Kafranbel chose a different path of resistance. Instead of weapons, they picked up pens and colors. They created satirical and clever banners, written in English to address the world, that became a global symbol of peaceful resistance and creativity in the face of injustice.
"We believe that words are stronger than bullets, and that laughter can shake the thrones of tyrants."— Raed Fares
Heroes
Photographer and Media Activist
Hamoud Juneid was a photographer and media activist who collaborated with Raed Fares on the famous banner movement and documenting demonstrations. He was martyred alongside him on November 23, 2018.
Journalist, Activist, and Voice of Syrian Freedom
Raed Fares was born in Kafranbel in 1972. He worked in business before the revolution, but when the Syrian uprising erupted in 2011, he found himself at the heart of peaceful resistance. He realized that weapons were not the solution, and that the Syrian people's voice needed to reach the world in a different way. He began with a group of volunteers creating satirical banners in English, addressing global public opinion. These banners became famous for their wit and humor, until Kafranbel became known as "the conscience of the Syrian revolution". In 2013, he founded Radio Fresh, Syria's first free radio station, which broadcast music and educational programs at a time when music was banned by extremist groups. He survived multiple assassination attempts before being martyred in November 2018.
Impact
500+
Documented Banners
200+
Media Outlets
10+
Awards & Exhibitions
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Ongoing Inspiration