Honoring Women’s Struggles: Giessen seminar celebrates International Women’s Day and legacy of activist İzla Neriman Özgun

GIESSEN, Germany — To commemorate International Women’s Day on 8 March, the Bethnahrin Women’s Union (Huyodo d’Neshe d’Bethnahrin, HNB), in partnership with the Democratic Assyrian Women’s Organization (DAWU) and the Syriac German Club, hosted a public seminar in Giessen, Germany. The event brought together representatives from Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) political parties and organizations, alongside members of German political parties, to honor women’s rights and the legacy of the late activist İzla Neriman Özgun.

The seminar, held at the Syriac Orthodox St. Ephrem and St. Theodorus Church, opened with a moment of silence for the martyrs of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people in Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia). Turkan Mbydono, representing the HNB, delivered an impassioned speech highlighting Hawro (Comrade) İzla’s contributions to the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) cause and her enduring legacy of sacrifice and activism.

A multilingual program followed, with Warda Rhaoui delivering remarks in Syriac, reflecting on the symbolism of 8 March and the enduring fight for women’s rights. In German, Noursan Michel addressed the audience, introducing a documentary on the history and importance of International Women’s Day. Further speeches included remarks by Israel Youssef and Orshina of the Assyria Democratic Organization (ADO), who emphasized the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s empowerment.

German political parties expressed their solidarity through representatives from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Social Democratic Party (SPD), and the Green Party. Lawyer Samira Sari also offered insights into the legal and social dimensions of women’s rights, contributing to a broader understanding of the challenges women face globally.

A poignant moment came when Sarkis Bar Theodoros delivered an elegy honoring İzla’s courage and dedication. This was followed by a documentary screening about İzla’s life, shedding light on her commitment to the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) cause and her ultimate sacrifice.

The seminar also featured an exhibition of photographs documenting activism and initiatives championed by women in the community. Representatives from various Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) organizations, including cultural and political organizations, joined activists, intellectuals, and community members in discussions about advancing women’s rights and the future of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) movement.

By blending political discourse, cultural commemoration, and community engagement, the seminar celebrated the achievements of women while reinforcing a collective commitment to a more just and equitable future for all.