Syriac Women’s Union marks International Women’s Day with inspiring march in Hasakah, North and East Syria

HASAKAH, North and East Syria — In commemoration of International Women’s Day on 8 March, the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU) in Syria orchestrated a vibrant march through the streets of Hasakah, North and East Syria, showcasing unity and resilience.

Joined by members from all its branches across Gozarto (Jazira) Canton and representatives from the institutions of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB), the SWU led a spirited procession, starting from the heart of Hasakah.

A delegation from the SWU paid homage to the Archbishopric of the Syriac Orthodox Church and the Church of Saint Georges, where they were warmly received by Archbishop Mor Maurice Amsih. Expressing gratitude for the SWU’s efforts, Archbishop Amsih lauded the enduring struggle of women and highlighted the significant milestones achieved, particularly under the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES).

Winding their way through the city streets, the delegation distributed sweets to residents, symbolizing the sweetness of solidarity and empowerment. Arriving at the SWU’s headquarters in Nasrah, they continued to Syriac Martyrs’ Square, where the SWU’s message was conveyed.

In a statement delivered by Ilham Matli, an official of the SWU in Syria, and translated into Syriac by Sophia Youssef, an SWU member, the history of International Women’s Day was recounted. Emphasizing the enduring resilience of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women, the statement underscored their long-standing struggle against oppression and inequality.

Acknowledging the centuries-old persecution and genocide faced by Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women, the Union’s statement celebrated their resilience and determination to organize and advocate for their rights, inspired by the philosophy of MUB leader Mikhail Naim Hadodo.

Promising to safeguard the hard-won gains achieved through sacrifice and resilience, the SWU extended heartfelt congratulations to the Beth Nahrin Women’s Protection Force (Ḥaylawotho d’Sutoro d’Neshe d’Beth Nahrin, HSNB) and Women’s Protection Units (Yekîneyên Parastina Jin, YPJ).

The march culminated in a joyous celebration, featuring traditional folkloric dancing and the distribution of sweets, uniting representatives from various institutions and families in a collective tribute to the spirit of women’s empowerment.