Many political figures in the UK, from representatives of the main opposition to members of parliament and mayors, emphasized solidarity and struggle in their messages marking the Kurdish people’s Newroz holiday.
Jeremy Corbyn
Starting his message with the Kurdish words “Newroza we hemûyan pîroz be!”, Labour Party MP for Islington Jeremy Corbyn drew attention to the increasing attacks against migrants and highlighted the importance of the contributions made by first-, second-, and third-generation migrants to society. Noting that the Kurdish community is an important part of this contribution, Corbyn said, “This is your home, and I am proud to celebrate Newroz with all of you.”
Corbyn stated that Newroz is a time to celebrate the history, heritage, and culture of the Kurdish people, emphasizing his support for the Kurdish people’s right to self-determination and their struggle for democracy and freedom. He added that he would continue to defend the right of Kurds living in Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Turkey to determine their own future, saying, “I wish that Newroz brings joy, peace, and renewal for everyone.”
Kim Johnson, MP for Liverpool Riverside
Labour Party MP for Liverpool Kim Johnson also stated in her message that Newroz represents resistance and hope. Extending her sincere wishes to the Kurdish people, Johnson said, “You have my full support in your ongoing political struggle.”
Highlighting the presence of a growing and vibrant Kurdish community in the United Kingdom, Johnson noted that Kurdish culture, history, and resilience enrich society, adding, “With solidarity, Happy Newroz.”
Peray Ahmet, Leader of Haringey Council
Haringey Council Leader Peray Ahmet stated in her message that Newroz symbolizes new beginnings and spring. She noted that the Kurdish community has built a strong presence in Haringey and expressed pride in the contributions Kurds have made to the borough.
Emphasizing that Kurdish culture is a central part of the area’s history, Ahmet recalled that Haringey will be London Borough of Culture in 2027 and noted that the Kurdish community will be at the heart of these celebrations. She said, “I am delighted to celebrate Newroz with you. Happy Newroz.”
Labour Party MP for Southgate Bambos Charalambous
Labour Party MP for Southgate Bambos Charalambous, in his message, wished a healthy and prosperous year to everyone celebrating Newroz in the United Kingdom and around the world.
Expressing his pleasure at working with his Kurdish friends and neighbors, Charalambous stated that he would continue to support the growing Kurdish community in London and across the country. “I hope the new year brings light, hope, and peace. Happy Newroz!” he said.
Darren Millar, leader of the Opposition in the Welsh Parliament
Darren Millar, Leader of the Opposition in the Welsh Parliament, also celebrated Newroz in his message, extending his greetings to Kurdish people living in Wales, the United Kingdom, and around the world. Millar said, “I wish you and your loved ones a healthy and prosperous year.”
Ergin Erbil, leader of Enfield Council
Ergin Erbil, the first Kurdish council leader in the United Kingdom and Leader of Enfield Council, stated in his message that Newroz is a celebration of renewal and community spirit.
Erbil said he would attend the Newroz celebration to be held on March 22 at Finsbury Park and expressed pride in the Kurdish community living in Enfield, London, and worldwide. He emphasized that the resilience, culture, and contributions of Kurdish people enrich the places they live, and highlighted the importance of unity around progressive values in an increasingly unstable world.
Erbil added, “I will continue to fight to increase representation and ensure that our communities’ voices are heard at every level. Happy Newroz!”
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