Syriac community celebrates Akitu Festival in Derik

The Syriac-Assyrian community in the village of Hakmiya, Derik, celebrated the Akitu festival, reaffirming their commitment to their language, culture, and traditional holidays.

NEWS

1 April, 2026 20:10

NEWS DESK- QAMISHLO

The Syriac Union Party organized a celebration marking the Syriac-Assyrian New Year (Akitu) in the village of Hakmiya, Derik. Dozens of Syriac participants attended, alongside Kurdish political parties in Derik and members of civil institutions.

The celebration began with a moment of silence, followed by a speech from Sida Ibrahim, a member of the General Council of the Syriac Union Party. She stated: “Our language, culture, and holidays are not merely symbols, but the foundation of our struggle. We will continue working until they are recognized in Syria and rights are restored to their rightful owners.”

She added: “The Syriac-Assyrian people have suffered from marginalization and injustice. With the restoration of their rights, Syria will regain its vibrancy and civilization as a state that embraces all its components.”

The event concluded with participants forming traditional dance circles (dabke) to the rhythm of Syriac songs.

ANHA