Beth Nahrain Organization for Women celebrates International Women’s Day in Nineveh, Iraq

BARTELLA, Iraq — Under the title “Ensuring Women’s Rights Ensures a Free Democratic Society,” the Beth Nahrain Organization for Women (BNOW) celebrated International Women’s Day at BNOW’s Nineveh Plains headquarters in Bartella, Iraq.

The celebration was attended by BNOW Nineveh Branch official Ronak Elias Hanna, BNOW members, and women from Bartella, Qaraqosh, and Karamlesh.

The event began with a minute of silence to honor the souls of the martyrs. BNOW President Hanan Matti Touma delivered a speech in which she congratulated Iraqi women and detailed the role of women throughout history. She also demanded the Iraqi Parliament to expedite enacting laws that protect women from domestic and societal violence.

Touma highlighted the importance of shedding light on violence in schools and universities. “This important law should be prioritized because it protects family and society,” she added.

A poem entitled “Mathin Khathwatha” was then recited by poet Hanaa Qasha. Another poem by poet Amir Boulos entitled “Nadima al-Fajr” was also read by Nour Hazem.

Gifts were distributed to the attendees at the conclusion of the event.