Syrian Kurds Commemorate Nowruz in Historic Celebration Post-Assad

Kurdish cities in Syria celebrated Nowruz for the first time post-Assad’s fall, with large gatherings igniting the symbolic flame. Residents expressed their aspirations for a free Syria that respects Kurdish rights, highlighting significant unity and historical ties among communities.

In a significant and historic event, Kurdish cities throughout Syria celebrated Nowruz on Thursday, with tens of thousands gathering to ignite the holiday’s symbolic flame for the first time since the fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime the previous year. Major urban centers, including Qamishli, Afrin, Kobani, Hasakah, and Derik, witnessed vibrant festivities featuring traditional dance circles around the Nowruz fire, celebrating newfound freedoms.

Residents expressed their sentiments regarding the occasion, with Sherin Sheikhy from Qamishli stating, “This is the first time we celebrate Nowruz without the Baath regime and Al-Assad’s rule. We look forward to a new, free, and democratic Syria that guarantees Kurdish national rights.” Sheikhy noted the occasion as a pivotal moment emphasizing that no future Syrian government could marginalize Kurdish rights.

Additionally, for the first time, people in coastal regions and the Druze-majority city of Sweida participated in the lighting of Nowruz flames, showcasing solidarity with the Kurdish community. Activist Shiyar Younis remarked, “Kurdish-Syrian unity was long suppressed by Al-Assad’s policies… but today, people are celebrating Nowruz together without fear.”

The celebration of Nowruz, which marks the Kurdish New Year, served to reaffirm Kurdish national identity and their historical connections to the region.

The Nowruz celebrations across Kurdish cities in Syria mark a significant turning point for the Kurdish community following the fall of the Assad regime. With participation from diverse regions and a hopeful outlook towards a future that recognizes Kurdish rights, the event symbolizes unity and resilience among the Kurdish people. This newfound freedom encourages a collective hope for a democratic Syria that honors all ethnic identities.

Original Source: shafaq.com