On the anniversary of the 15 August 1984 first armed action by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) against Turkey, the Kurdish Communities Union (KCK) – a coalition of Kurdish political organisations – has expressed gratitude to all those who contributed both intellectually and through action to Kurdish resistance over the decades.
The KCK emphasised that the 15 August holds a unique place in the heart of the Kurdish guerrilla movement, representing a critical historical turning point for the Kurdish resistance and a strategic reference point from which to shape the future of Kurdistan.
The on-going resistance reflects the enduring identity and willpower of the Kurdish people, the union said, adding that the resistance movement has challenged the course of history for Kurds threatened with oppression and extinction, emerging as a beacon of hope.
The KCK reiterated that the 15 August resistance has become more than a single event in history, it now represents the collective struggle of the Kurdish people against the legacy of genocidal colonialism. Encompassing more than military action, the resistance is an on-going process working to secure the survival and liberation of the Kurdish people, the statement read.
The General Command of the Sinjar (Shengal) Resistance Units (YBŞ) also released an anniversary message, emphasising its significance for the Kurdish people.
The YBŞ said that the 15 August signifies a milestone for the entire region, offering hope for Kurdish freedom and laying the foundation for renewed organisation against the adversaries. The YBŞ described the 15 August as the “Liberation Day of all Kurdish people”.
Kongra Star, a confederation of women’s organisations in North and East Syria, also commemorated the resilience and unity of the Kurdish people, and highlighted the transformative power of the PKK in enabling Kurds to forge ‘a new life’.
The confederation said that the actions on 15 August 1984 in the Eruh (Dih) district of Siirt (Sêrt) and the Şemdinli (Şemzînan) district of Hakkari (Colemêrg) in Turkey marked the first time Kurds that gained the ability to organise and construct a renewed identity.
