Syriac Cultural Festival in Erbil spotlights historical significance amid contemporary challenges
Against the backdrop of celebration, Jawhar's remarks served as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the region's diverse cultural tapestry.
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) - In Erbil, the vibrant capital of the Kurdistan Region, the city came alive with the colors, sounds, and flavors of Syriac festivities as it hosted a cultural festival to mark the Akitu holidays.
Amidst the festivities, Ano Jawhar, head of the Hammurabi coalition, took the stage to shed light on the historical richness of the region and address pressing contemporary issues facing ethnic and religious communities.
During his address on Thursday, Jawhar underscored the deep-rooted history of Ankawa, emphasizing that its age surpasses that of Soma, establishing its inhabitants as indigenous to the region with a heritage spanning over seven millennia.
Against the backdrop of celebration, Jawhar's remarks served as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the region's diverse cultural tapestry.
However, amidst the cultural revelry, Jawhar did not shy away from addressing the challenges faced by various communities, particularly Christians, in present-day Iraq.
He denounced what he described as "state terrorism" perpetrated by the Iraqi government against Christians, echoing sentiments of oppression and destruction that have marred their history.
Highlighting a recent development, Jawhar condemned the withdrawal of a republican decree from the head of the church in Iraq by the state, an action he deemed unjustifiable and indicative of systemic discrimination.
Moreover, he drew attention to the plight of Christians and Turkmen communities and the removal of their quota seats from the Kurdistan Parliament, lamenting the presence of a "so-called Federal Court" reminiscent of oppressive regimes of the past.
Jawhar's address served as a call to action, urging for greater recognition and protection of communities’ rights in Iraq. As the Syriac cultural festival in Erbil came to a close, it left in its wake not only memories of joy and celebration but also a renewed commitment to preserving the rich heritage and safeguarding the rights of all communities in the region.