After an intensive preparation period, the Kurdish Women's Cultural Days took place in Berlin under the motto "Xwebûn – The Art of Resistance." Xwebûn translates to "being oneself" or "staying true to oneself" and describes the act of self-assertion amid oppression and external control. The event series provided a platform for art, culture, and political exchange and was attended by numerous visitors.

Opening with an Impressive Vernissage

The Cultural Days began on March 1 with a festive vernissage at the Alte Münze. Works by Bêrêvan Îmbîn, Shilan Reshid, Susan Azizi, NubikArts, Selina Tango, and Melina Tango were presented. The musical accompaniment was provided by Özgür Isik. The exhibition was open until March 7.

Panels and Discussions on the Role of Women in Art and Society

On the second day of the Cultural Days, a panel discussion took place at the Spore Initiative. Among the panelists was Mizgîn Tahir, the first Kurdish opera singer and conductor from Rojava, who spoke about preserving Kurdish identity through cultural work. Kurdish-Alevi activist Açelya Erbasli discussed her artistic engagement with Alevism. Berfîn Emektar, a theater actress from Amed, addressed the Turkish state's assimilation policies and Kurdish women's resistance in the diaspora. Writer and director Cemîle Sahîn highlighted patriarchal structures in the art industry and the political challenges they pose.

Musical and Cultural Highlights

On the third day, the women of the Zaza Women Project, along with singers Maviş Güneşer and Gule Mayera, performed traditional Klamî/Deyîs songs. Gülten Firat presented Dengbêj, an oral and musical tradition preserving significant historical events.

Another highlight was the theater play "Amargî" on the fourth day, which was performed at Theater X. The performance was completely sold out.

On the fifth day, the young women of Tekojin explored the history of the Nelkenapfel. In a workshop, participants had the opportunity to create bookmarks and bracelets. Deqqaqe Dîlara, an expert on the tradition of Deq, provided insights into her research and demonstrated methods of this body art form. Interested participants could try their hand at traditional Deq tattooing.

On the sixth day, traditional Kurdish costumes took center stage. Koma Ferasîn and Koma Delîl Çiyager presented outfits from Bakûrê Kurdistanê and Hesekê (Rojava). A fashion show rounded off the event, which culminated in Kurdish dances.

Workshops on Jineolojî and Social Ecology

On the seventh day of the Cultural Days, workshops on Jineolojî and social ecology were held at the Spore Initiative. JXK Berlin, Sermîn G., and Menekse K. introduced participants to these topics and presented their final results.

Conclusion with a Musical Highlight

The Cultural Days concluded on March 8 with a grand concert at HAU2. Artists Dîlan Top and Sheyda Ghavami provided an unforgettable musical evening.

A Strong Statement of Resistance

The Kurdish Women's Cultural Days impressively demonstrated that art and culture are central elements of resistance. They provided space for political debates, artistic self-assertion, and collective remembrance. A special thanks goes to the many artists, organizers, and supporters who made these days possible.

In total, around 900 to 1,000 people attended the various events of the Cultural Days. The organizers concluded with a call to see March 8 not just as a holiday but as a day of mobilization: "Our struggle does not end as long as patriarchy and capitalism exist. Our weapon is our solidarity and our tireless commitment to a more just world."