The Newroz declaration in Wan (Van) was read by the Free Women’s Movement (TJA), the Democratic Regions Party (DBP), and the Provincial Organization of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party). This year, said the organizers, this would be a ‘Newroz of Freedom and Democracy’.
Yakup Almaç read the Kurdish version of the declaration text, while Herdem Acar read the Turkish version. The statement drew attention to the crisis in the Middle East and emphasized the spirit of national unity.
The statement noted that for the Kurdish people, Newroz symbolizes rebellion against oppression, the will to exist against denial, and the fire of freedom. It said: “Our people, whose language and identity were attempted to be banned, preserved their historical memory around the Newroz fire, expanded their resistance, and continued their march toward freedom. The Newroz fire, lit every year, has become a symbol that strengthens the unity of our people and our determination to protect our common future.”
The declaration also stated that one year has passed since the “Peace and Democratic Society Process,” said to have been initiated by Abdullah Öcalan on 27 February 2025, and noted that the Kurdish people have supported democratic transformation during this process.
“Öcalan’s physical freedom must be guaranteed”
The declaration emphasized that the lack of concrete and legal steps within the process has not met expectations, stating: “Guaranteeing the physical freedom and free working conditions of Mr. Öcalan, one of the most important actors of the honorable peace process, is a historical necessity for a democratic solution and lasting peace.”
The statement also drew attention to the leading role of women in the struggle for freedom, noting that the spirit of resistance of Rahşan, Ronahî, Zekiye, and Bêrîvan has today become a symbol of freedom for women around the world through the philosophy of “Woman, Life, Freedom.”
“Let us be in the squares with the spirit of national unity”
The statement also pointed out that young people continue the tradition of Newroz resistance, expressing that young people will take a leading role in building a democratic society with new ideas and forms of organization.
The declaration stated that Newroz 2026 is being celebrated in a period when the demand for freedom has grown even stronger, saying: “The Newroz fire of 2026 will shine even brighter with the spirit of national unity, the determination for freedom, and the power of organized struggle. We call on women, young people, workers, and all our people who stand for freedom to come together in Newroz celebrations and to expand the struggle for unity, freedom, democracy, and equality.”
Call to the people of Van
The statement invited the public to Newroz rallies to be held on 17 March in Erciş and on 22 March in Van. It was stated that the celebration on 22 March will take place in the Newroz area next to Van Castle with the participation of hundreds of thousands.
It was announced that DEM Party Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan, Veysi Aktaş, and TJA activist Derya Aslan will attend the celebrations, and that Koma Agirê Jiyan and Koma Rojhilat will perform.
After the press statement, the Newroz fire was lit and participants danced the traditional halay.
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