Syrian Kurdish Journalists Network celebrates 175 years of Syriac-language journalism

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — In celebration of the 175th anniversary of the first Syriac newspaper, the Syrian Kurdish Journalists Network (SKJN) extended its congratulations to all professionals in Syriac-language journalism and media. In a social media post, SKJN highlighted the significance of Zahriri Dabahra (Light), the pioneering Syriac newspaper, in expanding the use of the Syriac language beyond the walls of churches, Christian schools, and monasteries, and into public media. The publication offered a platform to share the daily lives and news of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community.

SKJN emphasized that, despite regional political restrictions and limited technology at the time, Zahriri Dabahra was instrumental in transmitting global news to Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) communities in their mother tongue and telling the stories of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people to the broader world.

Expressing gratitude to those who contributed to developing the Syriac language, SKJN acknowledged efforts to introduce new vocabulary, translate texts, and bridge Syriac literature with the cultures and languages of other communities.

Additionally, the Aso News Network sent a congratulatory message to the Suroyo Media Foundation on Syriac Press Day, commending the dedication of its employees and wishing them continued success in fulfilling their mission to serve and support the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community.