Military parade by YPJ on International Women’s Day

The Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) organized an event marking International Women’s Day at one of their headquarters in the city of Hasakah, with the participation of hundreds of YPJ fighters. The event was also attended by women from civil and security institutions, as well as members of the Council of Martyrs’ Families.

The event began with a minute of silence, followed by a military parade performed by fighters of the Women’s Protection Units, including members of the Counter-Terrorism Units.

Afterward, YPJ commander Newroz Ahmed delivered a speech, opening with:
“We congratulate the world on this day, especially the women and female fighters who sacrificed the most precious things they had so that we could live to see this day.”

Newroz Ahmed explained that women have suffered throughout history and have contributed greatly to society and the world, from agriculture to education and upbringing, as well as struggle on the battlefronts.

She added:
“Hundreds of our fallen comrades sacrificed their lives to protect women from injustice and oppression, and today we renew our pledge to follow in their footsteps.”

Newroz further noted that the slogan often repeated “The Rojava Revolution is a women’s revolution” is not merely a slogan but a reality that has been implemented in all civil and military institutions. She emphasized that women fought alongside men in all battles and stood firmly within every institution.

Continuing her speech, she said:
“Certainly, the increase in attacks against the women’s revolution comes in the context of trying to end women’s resistance and deny their existence, sacrifices, and heroism. Therefore, we must raise the level of struggle.”

The YPJ commander pledged to intensify their struggle and determination, and to continue standing up and defending all women fighters and activists striving for freedom and coexistence.

Following the speech, YPJ commanders distributed flowers and roses to the fighters.

The event concluded with a visit to the Dijwar Martyrs’ Cemetery in the village of Al-Dawoudiya, where participants visited the graves of fallen female fighters in tribute to their sacrifices so that the peoples of Rojava may live in peace and security.

ANHA