The 18th Zilan Festival, one of Europe’s most prominent Kurdish events was held by the Jiyan Women’s Assembly in London on Sunday with hundreds of attendees.
“We march to the women’s revolution with Jin Jiyan Azadî,” was used as a slogan for the event, showcasing the ongoing fight for women’s rights and commemorating the life of Emine Kara (Evîn Goyî), a victim of an armed attack on a Kurdish cultural centre in Paris last December.
“Evîn Goyî’s unwavering commitment to the cause of women’s liberation significantly contributed to the success of the Rojava Women’s Revolution,” Jiyan Women’s Assembly’s Besime Başar said in an opening speech, dedicating this year’s festival to Paris victim Kara.
Başar highlighted the targeted nature of the attack in Paris, emphasising that Evîn Goyî symbolised the worldwide struggle faced by women.
She drew attention to the women’s uprising in Iran and praised the slogan “Jin Jiyan Azadî” for its inspiring and pioneering role in the global fight for freedom.
The festival grounds featured stalls selling traditional clothing and books, offering attendees a glimpse into Kurdish culture. Women adorned national attire as a statement of unity and identity. Participants were also treated to an array of local cuisine.
The annual Zilan festival commemorates the death of Zeynep Kınacı, known by her nom de guerre Zilan, a female Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) fighter who died in a suicide attack in 1996. Zilan’s name was chosen to reflect the influence her actions had in shaping women’s roles within the organisation.
