NORŞİN ABDİ

 Kobanê – Since the July 19th Revolution that started in Kobanê in 2012, women of North and East Syria have played an active role in building their society, shaping this process for democracy and justice. As today marks the International Workers’ Day, annually observed on May 1, Women workers in Kobanê emphasize that women's labor is a determining force in all facets of life, from production to the reconstruction of the social structure. They struggle to build an equal and free society based on solidarity. Workers in North and East Syria celebrate their day by organizing various marches and activities.

 ‘Break the chains’

“In Eastern societies, women have to work both at home and outside,” said Adla Mohammed, who works at the Al-Hayat Bakery in Kobanê. “We make great efforts to build our society, ensure equality and justice, and raise our children in the best possible way. However, women face challenges in the labor force. Despite all the challenges, we, women, raise our children and participate in the labor force. We struggle against the challenges to be successful and achieve our goals. Therefore, women make great efforts to build their society. On the International Workers’ Day, I call on all women to improve themselves, break the chains and participate in the labor force in order to build a better society.”

‘Women are the workers building their society’

Avş Ali, a resident of the village of Aydiq, southern of Kobanê, also works at the Al-Hayat Bakery. “On the International Workers’ Day, the first thing that people think about is the workers receiving a monthly salary,” Avş Ali told NuJINHA. “For us, the people of North and East Syria, a worker is anyone who contributes to building and developing their society. Women are the workers building their society even if they are at home. Every farmer protects the environment by creating green spaces. Despite my advanced age, I still plant flowers and trees. I would like to emphasize that women are the ones who make great efforts to build a better future.”

“As the Autonomous Administration, we respect and appreciate every person working for society,” said Meryem Ehmed, member of Kongra Star in Kobanê. “The July 19th Revolution gives an opportunity to women to build their society. We have achieved many victories thanks to this revolution. The July 19th Revolution is a women’s revolution. Women play an important role in developing their society. May Day is a special day for us because we celebrate our efforts and labor on May Day.”