The Syrian town of Daraya, now being completely evacuated by regime forces, is iconic for the country's revolution. It saw the strongest non-violent resistance to the regime in the early days of the uprising, with efforts to promote cross-sectarian co-existence. Protesters met security forces with roses extended in their hands—only to be met with bullets. When the town was finally liberated by the Free Syrian Army, it established its own council and became a model of democratic autonomy from the regime. Upon its fall to regime forces, Syrian activist Leila Al Shami writes that the evacuees leave Daraya as heroes.

Credit: Leila's Blog

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