PRESERVING ASHUR
The plain between the Tigris and Euphrates River is still a rich “mine” of information about ancient civilization. Despite 20 years of war, repression, and economic sanctions in Iraq, archaeologists have continued to work there. It was in such fabled cities as Uruk, Ashur, Babylon, Hatra and Samarra that complex agriculture, literacy and organized international trade originated (Lawler, 2010).
Although saving this region in a time of war will not be easy, it can be done. If it is agreed that the region between the Tigris and Euphrates is a world treasure, then the world community needs to take action. World citizens who care about this important region should support the efforts already underway. A global coalition of experts and archaeologists has come together, pledging to help Iraq rebuild its “plundered cultural institutions, inventory the losses, and assist in restoring damaged antiquities." (Lawler, 2010).
It is crucial that Iraq defend its newly opened borders from the thieves that feed artifacts to the international antiquities market. One of the first steps necessary to protecting Ashur’s heritage is the recovery of missing and looted artifacts, and for officials to stay ahead of the black market for antiquities. Another significant hurtle is to find realistic and affordable solutions to the water shortage in Iraq without building the proposed Makhul Dam, which would wipe out Ashur and over 100 other archaeological sites. (Lawler, 2010)
Archaeologists are trying desperately to mobilize international support to save Ashur. In March 2002, archaeologists held a conference at the British Museum, where a resolution was approved which warned of the damaging consequences of the Makhul Dam. As Dr. John Curtis of the British Museum states, “The conference urges all concerned parties, both within Iraq and internationally, to explore every possible means of preserving the site of Ashur which is of unique importance in the history of Iraq in particular and world civilizations in general.” (Bailey, 2010)
What can ordinary citizens do?
- Donations can be made to foundations created to protect Ashur and its artifacts. Such foundations may be researched through the Iraq Museum and other world museums where Ashur’s antiquities are held.
- Fundraisers spread awareness and raise money for research, education, tourism and restoration.
- Word of mouth and education are important and effective methods of activism and mobilization.
- Local churches may be interested in Ashur because of its references in biblical text.
- American citizens can write to elected federal representatives, asking for support by encouraging Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton to make the preservation of this region a top priority for the United States. Letters should include a statement of the issue and a specific request to assist Iraq and the world community of archaeologists to treat the preservation of Ashur and other sites as a high priority.
