Syriac women leading role in new Syria is an icon of change in Christian community

DARAMSUQ —  Amid the political and social transformations in Syria, Syriac women are emerging as an essential partner in reconstructing a new society, especially within Christian neighborhoods and communities. Starting from political participation to social leadership, the Syriac woman has become a symbol of resilience and determination to secure a better future.

Syriac women last traditional role

Before the conflict, the role of Syriac women in Christian neighborhoods, such as Bab Tuma and Al-Qassa, was mostly limited to the family household and local community. Access to leadership positions or political participation was almost non-existent.

“The political power was marginalizing everyone, especially Christians, which made it very difficult to break the restrictions imposed on Syriac women,” Mariam Hanna, a Syriac activist from the AL-dawayla neighborhood stated. “We were part of a society that was just trying to survive, without being able to further thinking.”

A new era of empowerment and changing

With the fall of the previous regime and the changing balance of power, Syriac women found an opportunity to prove their presence in a society undergoing major transformations. Organizations such as the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU) and the Syriac Women’s Council have played a huge role in empowering women and promoting their participation in politics, education and entrepreneurship.

Rita Sarkis, a Training Center Director in Daramsuq (Damascus) stated that this period represents a paradigm shift not only for Syriacs (Arameans-Chaldeans-Assyrians), but for the Christian community as a whole.

“Syriac women have become an essential part of political and social debates,” she added.

Ongoing battle of challenges

Despite the achievements, Syriac women still face great challenges, ranging from the cultural traditions that limits their development, to security and political challenges that threaten their gains.

“We are fighting on two fronts, the first is to achieve equality within our society, and the second is to establish our rights within the new constitution, which puts everyone in front of a great challenge, including Christians,” Mariam Hanna stated.

Education and economics are empowerment tools

Syriac women’s education and economic empowerment initiatives have contributed to a remarkable change within Christian communities.

“Material independence is the key,” says Nour Yakub, a small business owner in Al-Qassa. “When a woman has her own source of income, she becomes able to change her life and her family life. This is essential, especially amid such dire economic conditions.”

Church support absence raises a question mark

Despite its historical role in supporting society, some believe that the Christian Church did not provide sufficient support to Syriac women at this crucial stage.

“Churches could have played a bigger role in supporting Christian women, especially families who have lost their breadwinner,” Danny George, a resident of the Bab Tuma neighborhood stated. “We need actual initiatives that go beyond prayers to include material support and training programs.”

A promising future despite challenges

Despite all the challenges, the Syriac woman remains a living model for Syrian women who aspire to build a homeland that guarantees the rights of all. With the support of the Christian community and concerned organizations, Syriac women remain a driving force towards a brighter future, not only for Christians, but for all Syrians.

For the article in Arabic see here