Betanî, Portraits of Yezidis from the Drôme

In May 2026, the James Baldwin Media Library offers a poignant look at the Yazidi community of the Drôme region. The exhibition, the result of a collaboration between photographer Romain Rabier and anthropologist Estelle Amy de la Bretèque, sheds light on the history of these refugees who arrived from Syria between 2017 and 2021. The work presents 9 life-size portraits and 18 documentary photographs capturing the daily life and challenges of this rebuilt community. The exhibition dialogues with an in-depth ethnographic investigation, exploring how the ‘Betanî’ – these iconic polar fleece blankets, symbols of protection and memory – testify to their culture and resilience. A roundtable discussion is scheduled for May 7th at 7:00 PM to further explore this investigation. The exhibition is free to visit from May 5th to June 1st. It is the result of intense fieldwork and a particular sensitivity to the history of these newcomers.