YPG is part of women's freedom struggle

Founded on April 4, 2013, the YPJ continues its struggle on all fronts, particularly in combatting ISIS and resisting the Turkish state’s aggression.

On the 12th anniversary of its founding, YPJ fighters spoke to ANHA agency, reflecting on their experiences and the ideological foundations of their movement.

Talîn Husi, the Armenian fighter in the YPJ, stated: "It is both a right and a duty for every woman to participate in the revolution, defend herself, and embrace the thought and philosophy of Leader Abdullah Ocalan. When the Leader said, ‘The Rojava Revolution is a women’s revolution,’ he placed the responsibility of this revolution on our shoulders. We owe him for laying the groundwork for women’s struggle."

She also reflected on the historical trauma of the Armenian people: "We Armenians were unable to defend ourselves during the genocide of 1915 because we were unorganized. We didn’t know what resistance meant, nor did we know how to bear arms. But today, thanks to the Leader’s efforts, we possess more strength and self-confidence than ever. He created this revolution for all peoples and especially for women. Within this revolution, we discovered our identities and proved our existence."

Talîn described the diversity of the movement: "This revolution is like a garden of many flowers. When we understood the true meaning behind the Leader’s words, we realized that this is a revolution for all peoples — we are one."

She highlighted the YPJ’s battles in areas like Tishrin Dam and Qaraqozak Bridge:

"Our strength and morale come from our people. In the YPJ, women claim their rightful place in all domains — diplomacy, military, politics, and more. Despite the patriarchal mindset that tries to belittle women, I see strength and victory in the eyes of my comrades."

Talîn concluded by calling for Abdullah Ocalan’s physical freedom: "Our hope and belief are that the Leader will one day be physically free. While we follow his ideas and philosophy, we long for his presence among us. We congratulate Leader Abdullah Ocalan, our people, and all our comrades on April 4. This day is not just his birthday, it is ours as well."

"The Leader’s Birth and the YPJ’s Founding Are Beacons of Light"

Watin Furat, an Arab YPJ fighter, congratulated Leader Abdullah Ocalan and all women on the occasion, saying:

"Those who will protect and defend this land are the fighters of the YPJ. As Arab women fighters, we renew our pledge: the birth of the Leader is a new beginning for us all."

"We Will Deepen Our Struggle and Defend Our Revolution"

Xwenda Kurdistan, the Kurdish YPJ fighter, highlighted that their accomplishments are rooted in Ocalan’s philosophy. She noted the growing participation of women in the military and expressed joy at a recent message from the Leader:

"Thanks to the Leader’s philosophy, we can today celebrate both his birth and the founding of the YPJ. His birth heralded a new dawn."

Şiraz Cekdar, another Arab fighter in the YPJ, extended congratulations to people around the world, calling April a sacred month: "In April, we celebrate two crucial events: the founding of the YPJ and the birth of the Leader. Thanks to his philosophy, women from all communities continue to resist patriarchal oppression and fight for freedom."

a.k

ANHA