We are one world.

Iraq is us and we are Iraq. The world heritage of the land between two rivers is interwoven into the very fabric of who we are — from humanity’s early quest for meaning (the Epic of Gilgamesh) to our pursuit of knowledge (Ibn al-Haythem‘s embrace of the scientific method). Likewise, our spirit of 1776 can also be found in Baghdad’s Tahrir Square and in the desire of every Iraqi to form a more perfect union.

Kicking off with #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of giving and unity, and continuing throughout the month of May, we invite you to join us in solidarity with the people of Iraq.

In this time of uncertainty, your gift will enable us to continue our work. Together, we can save lives and move Iraq forward.

Here are three ways that your support can help make that happen:

• Joining Iraq in the fight against COVID-19: Building on our research, EPIC is working with our partner, the Iraqi Health Access Organization, to provide essential and preventive care services to families unable to access medical facilities, while addressing COVID-19’s psychological and social impact in affected communities, including the stigmatization of victims (and their families) and gender-based violence.

• Protecting Iraq’s pro-reform movement: Based on our recent conversation with Hayder Hamzoz, EPIC is conducting research to learn from civil society activists and protest organizers how the international community can best support their demands for free and fair elections.

• Working with Iraqi civil society in Ninewa to tell their stories: With attacks by ISIS once more on the rise, we are determined to ensure that the world does not forget what happened to the people of Ninewa under ISIS and their continued struggle to recover and build peace. Beginning in Sinjar, we are preparing to work with community-based organizations and activists on a series of videos to promote public dialogue on critical issues related to justice, recovery, and human security.

No one should be left to face this pandemic alone, and no one should feel forgotten in their efforts to rebuild their lives or in their struggle for democratic reforms.

Thank you for helping to make the vital research, lifesaving advocacy, and groundbreaking field work that you have come to value from EPIC possible.