Syrian Kurds Celebrate First Nowruz Post-Assad Regime

Syrian Kurds celebrated Nowruz for the first time post-Assad’s regime, gathering in major cities to light symbolic flames and dance in unity. Residents expressed hope for a democratic Syria that honors Kurdish rights, emphasizing the historical significance of the event amidst newfound solidarity among various groups in Syria.

On Thursday, Kurdish cities in Syria celebrated historic Nowruz festivities, marking the first such event following the fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime. Major urban areas, including Qamishli, Afrin, Kobani, Hasakah, and Derik, witnessed large gatherings as tens of thousands ignited the holiday’s symbolic flame, forming traditional dance circles around it.

Sherin Sheikhy, a Qamishli resident, remarked, “This is the first time we celebrate Nowruz without the Baath regime and Al-Assad’s rule. We look forward to a new, free, and democratic Syria that guarantees Kurdish national rights.” She emphasized that this moment signifies a pivotal change, stating, “No future government in Syria can marginalize or deny Kurdish rights anymore.”

In a notable display of solidarity, individuals in coastal regions of Syria and in the Druze-majority city of Sweida also lit Nowruz flames. Kurdish activist Shiyar Younis noted, “Kurdish-Syrian unity was long suppressed by Al-Assad’s policies. For decades, the regime sowed division among Syrians, but today, people are celebrating Nowruz together without fear.” This reflects a newfound hope among the Kurdish community.

Nowruz, which signifies the Kurdish New Year, serves as an occasion for Kurds to reaffirm their national identity and their historical connections to their homeland, further cementing cultural ties during this period of transition.

The celebrations of Nowruz in Kurdish cities across Syria represent a significant shift following the end of Al-Assad’s regime. The events, marked by unity and joy, reflect a collective desire for a democratic Syria that honors the rights of its Kurdish population. The participation from diverse regions also highlights a newfound solidarity among Syrians in celebration of their cultural identities.

Original Source: shafaq.com