Sanctuary FAQs

What are some good resources for getting a better understanding of the Ezidi religion and their culture?

There are some helpful online resources that you can use to further your understanding of the Ezidi culture, mostly under the name Yazidi. The Wikipedia page has some good information. It is important to realise that there are differences within the culture and between each family, so don’t assume things of the family you visit.

This is my first time visiting a new family, is there anything I should or should not do?

Ezidis are generally warm and welcoming and easy to visit. Remember to take your shoes off at the door as they do. You may accept their offer of tea, water and fruit or other hospitality as you feel comfortable. Feel free to ask the tea with less sugar as it is usually black and sweet.

What should I expect the first time I meet my family, is there anything they expect of me?

Just introduce yourself and tell them about yourself and what you could help them with. Try to find out about the family’s individual members, their names (write them down) and whether they go to school, Tafe, work etc. Ask what they want help with. Exchange phone numbers and make arrangements about when and how often you can come. Explain if certain things are not within your abilities e.g. teach driving.

My family is asking if I am able to visit more frequently than I feel able, how should I respond?

Do not feel as if you need to visit your family more than you feel able to, but also feel free to increase your visits if you would like. It may be appropriate to explain to them that you may be busy or have other commitments.

How should I respond to invitations to stay for meals at the family I am visiting?

It is part of their culture to offer food and hospitality frequently. It is not considered offensive to say no, though depending on your circumstance it may be appropriate to explain how in Australia the custom is to offer a cup of tea and we don’t intend to be unfriendly when we say no. Feel free to also accept an invitation as often as you feel like it but don’t feel obliged to reciprocate. Meals can be a great way to bond and get to know your family and the Ezidi culture better.

Should I be answering questions about health, house, jobs, centerlink etc?

Do not feel under any obligation to provide advice about issues that you are not familiar with, or that are best left to professionals. You can answer to the best of your knowledge or refer to the appropriate service, e.g. doctor, real estate, NSS. You may be able to assist with phone enquiries, making appointments or interpreting letters. Volunteers also have the ability to use the phone interpreting services in NSW.

Who should I contact if I am concerned about someone in the family that I visit?

There are a couple of options with who to approach if you have concerns regarding the family you visit. You can get in contact with the person who introduced you to the family or the Sanctuary committee. It is also possible for volunteers to voice their concerns with STARTTS (for trauma and mental health) or NSS/SSI (settlement services).

A lot of the families have also experienced significant trauma, and may feel comfortable enough to share this with you. Do not push too much for information and respect their privacy. Please also consider your own mental health and how much you are able to process. If you feel you need support please reach out to the Sanctuary committee or your own counsellor.

Are there particular foods that the Ezidis do not eat?

Ezidis eat a lot of rice, chicken, cucumbers, tomato, celery and home baked flat bread. Generally speaking, they do not consume alcohol. There may be some taboos against certain foods such as lettuce, but not all families will follow all of these, so best to ask your family what they do and do not eat.