Originally posted by the Voice of America.
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Life Under Islamic State: Child Slaves

Heather Murdock

   KHANKE, IRAQ -- As Islamic State militants lost their territorial
   holdings in Iraq and Syria, VOA chronicled the events through the words
   of the victims, in a 12-part series called "Life Under Islamic State."

   Now, three years later, we bring you voices of victims who were
   silenced until recently. Officials estimate nearly 3,000 Yazidi people
   remain missing after being captured and enslaved by IS.

   Maher was 6 years old, Fadya was 5, and their mother, Basse, was
   pregnant when they were all taken. In recent months, the children were
   rescued in Syria individually and brought back to Iraq. The family
   tells their story in their own words, translated into English and
   edited for clarity.

   Basse: When my children were returned to me they didn't recognize
   anyone in the family. They had been taught by Islamic State militants
   that Yazidis are infidels. My daughter, Fadya, said, "You are not my
   family. I don't know you."

   But she did remember my name.

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