The central Newroz celebration has begun in the Kurdish metropolis of Amed (tr. Diyarbakır). The New Year's festival that is a symbol of freedom, renewal and resistance for millions of Kurds around the world. Under this year's slogan “Free Leader – Democratic Society”, tens of thousands of people gathered early in Newroz Park in the district of Rezan (Bağlar).

The Newroz atmosphere spread throughout the city from the early hours of the morning. People – young and old – flocked from all parts of the city to the festival grounds. Visitors were directed to the grounds via six checkpoints. The strong participation of young people, marching in traditional Kurdish clothing in collectives, was striking. Slogans such as “Bê serok jiyan nabe” (No life without the leader), “Bijî Serok Apo” (Long live Leader Öcalan) and “Political prisoners are our honor” are frequently chanted.

The civil society movement of Kurdish Peace Mothers, the “Dayikên Aşîtiyê”, entered the area under the call “Bijî Newroz, Bijî Aşitî” (Long live Newroz, long live peace), accompanied by young people chanting “Bijî Dayikên Aşitîyê” (Long live the Peace Mothers).

The checks at the entrances led to long waiting times, especially for older people. In some cases, yellow-red-green flags were confiscated, causing resentment among the visitors. Nevertheless, the crowd did not let the mood be spoiled. As the influx continues unabated, the festival grounds are filling up. Those who have already made it inside are dancing exuberantly to Kurdish songs played over loudspeakers.

 Flags and banners are flying over the grounds – and posters of Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan are also on display. The mood grows with every minute, a powerful sign of the resilience for life of the Kurdish population. This year, Newroz in Amed is once again more than a celebration – it is a political, cultural and social manifestation.