Bethnahrin Women’s Union honors Martyr İzla Özgün as beacon of women’s struggle and equality

BETH NAHRIN — The Bethnahrin Women’s Union (Huyodo d’Neshe d’Bethnahrin, HNB) issued a heartfelt condolence message, honoring the legacy of Martyr İzla Özgün, who was described as a guiding light in the fight for women’s rights and gender equality.

Leader in Women’s Empowerment

The HBA highlighted Hawro (Comrade) İzla’s unwavering dedication to advancing the cause of women’s rights and empowerment. Her significant role in establishing the HBA and her tireless efforts in the national and gender equality struggle were underscored as pivotal to the organization’s mission.

“Martyr İzla has become a symbol of resistance and a source of inspiration for women across generations,” the statement read, emphasizing her courage and contributions to both national causes and women’s empowerment.

Condolences to Family and Leadership

The HNB extended its deepest condolences to Mikhail Naim Hadodo, President of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB), as well as to the members of the HNB, supporters of the organization, and İzla’s family.

Legacy of Struggle Across Borders

Martyr İzla’s role extended far beyond her community. As one of the founders of the HNB in Europe, she laid the groundwork for the organization’s initiatives. During the Arab Spring, she actively mobilized Syriac women in Syria, organizing them under the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU). Her efforts also reached Tur Abdin, a historic region in southeastern Turkey, and Iraq, where she championed the rights and empowerment of women with unwavering devotion to her homeland and people.

The HBA described her as “not just a mother to her daughter but a mother to an entire nation,” embodying strength and selflessness in her work.

March: Month of Reflection and Sacrifice

The statement poignantly noted that March holds profound significance for the HBA. It marks International Women’s Day on 8 March — a day that symbolizes the ongoing fight for gender equality — and now carries the sorrow of Hawro İzla’s martyrdom on 6 March.

Her sacrifice, the HBA emphasized, will be remembered and honored by women everywhere. “Martyrs are the torches lighting our path, and their legacy will guide us forward,” the statement declared.

Tribute to Great Women in History

In closing, the HNB vowed to continue telling the stories of remarkable women from their people’s history, including Ishtar, Semiramis, and Zenobia. To this legacy, they have now added the story of Martyr İzla, whose name will be carried on through their struggle.

The statement concluded with a powerful affirmation of their mission: “Long live the struggle of the Bethnahrin Women’s Union. Martyrs never die.”