White Armband: Symbolism and Historical Context

Background

• The white armband is a symbol from the Bosnian War, specifically related to events in Prijedor, Bosnia and Herzegovina in May 1992.
• Bosnian Serb authorities mandated that all non-Serb citizens, primarily Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims), mark houses with white flags or bed sheets.
• Non-Serbs had to wear white armbands when leaving their homes.

Purpose of the White Armband

• Used to dehumanize and segregate Bosniaks from the Serbian population.
• Preceded a campaign of terror that included:
  • Killing of over 3,100 Bosniak men, women, and children.
  • Establishment of concentration and rape camps.
  • Forced displacement of 53,000 people.

Aftermath and Memorialization

• In 2013, a mass grave was discovered in Prijedor containing 600 bodies.
• Local authorities have refused to construct a memorial despite requests from victims' families.
• May 31st is recognized by activists and survivors to commemorate victims and raise awareness about the denial of these war crimes.

Broader Context: The Bosnian Genocide

• Part of a wider genocide in Bosnia from 1992 to 1995.
• Estimated 100,000 people were killed, 80% Bosnian Muslims.
• Genocide targeted Bosnian Muslims explicitly for their identity.

Awareness and Education

• A survey showed 70% of individuals under 35 are unaware of the Bosnian genocide.
• Highlights the importance of remembering and educating about historical atrocities to support affected communities and prevent future ignorance.

Call to Action

• Encourage actions to raise awareness, such as wearing white armbands and sharing on social media (#WhiteArmbandDayPrijedor).
• Emphasizes the importance of remembering past events, like the Bosnian genocide, to empathize with current global issues such as the conflict in Gaza.

Educational Resources

• A 20-minute video, "The Bosnian Genocide Explained," is available, aimed at providing comprehensive understanding to those unfamiliar with the events.
• The speaker urges sharing of educational content to honor those affected and spread awareness.