Political party leaders, MPs, trade unionists, mayors and councillors in Britain shared messages of solidarity and struggle on the occasion of Kurdish New Year, Newroz.
Jeremy Bernard Corbyn MP for Islington North (Independent)
"Newroz is a time to celebrate Kurdish history, heritage and culture. Well done to all those who are putting together some fantastic events for the benefit of us all!
As the MP for Islington North, I am extremely proud to represent one of the most diverse constituencies in the country, with a growing Kurdish community. You have changed Islington for the better. As migrants and refugees come under increasing attacks, it is more important than ever to defend and celebrate the massive contribution that first, second and third generation migrants have made to our society.
As you know, I am a longstanding supporter of Kurdish self-determination, democracy and freedom. I will continue to use my voice in Parliament to defend the rights of Kurdish people in Iraq, Iran, Syria, Turkey and beyond to decide their own future. Your resolve is an inspiration to millions of us seeking to build a more peaceful world."
Peray Ahmet, Leader of Haringey Council
As Newroz is a celebration of the beginning of spring and new beginnings, I would like to reflect on some of the new beginnings that have formed part of our borough's story.
Starting with our own Kurdish community, who came to make a new start in Haringey and have built a thriving community here, we are proud of the contribution that the community makes to our borough-whether it's the bustling businesses on Green Lanes, the wonderful teachers in our schools or the hard-working local councillors and community organisers in our neighbourhoods.
Kurdish culture is a central part of our borough's story and the Kurdish community will be at the heart of our celebrations in two years' time when Haringey becomes London's Borough of Culture 2027. I am pleased to be celebrating Newroz with you this year and I look forward to interacting, learning and building stronger communities together in the years to come.
Kim Johnson, MP for Liverpool Riverside
Sending my warmest wishes to the Kurdish community as you celebrate Newroz. This is a time of renewal, resistance, and hope, and I stand in full support of your ongoing political struggle. We are fortunate to have a vibrant and growing Kurdish community across the UK, including in my own constituency, enriching our society with your culture, history, and resilience. In solidarity.
Bambos Charalambous, MP for Southgate and Wood Green
Newroz p'iroz be!
Wishing everyone celebrating Newroz in the UK and across the world a happy, prosperous, and healthy new year.
My constituency in North London is home to many Kurdish families, businesses, shops and restaurants, and organisations, and our community is a richer place for their diverse and vibrant contribution. I am delighted to work alongside Kurdish friends, neighbours and colleagues, and I will continue to support our growing Kurdish community in London and across the UK.
Happy Newroz and let us hope that the new year will bring light, hope and peace.
Lukas Sieper, MEP, Member of European Parliament
Dear Friends, Newroz the "new day" is much more than just the beginning of a new year.It is a celebration of renewal, change, and hope.It reminds us that with each new day, new opportunities arise:for peace, for justice, and for a better way of living together. This festival unites many peoples and cultures, Kurds and many other communities. Newroz shows us how deeply rooted and far-reaching our shared traditions truly are. To everyone celebrating Newroz, I wish you a happy, peaceful, and successful new year - full of confidence, unity, and solidarity. May this year be one in which we do not work against each other, but with each other, to build a better future.
Darren Millar, MS, Leader of the Opposition in the Welsh Parliament
I wish a very happy Newroz to the Kurdish community in Wales, the UK, and around the world! Newroz piroz be to you and your loved ones, and may you know good health and prosperity in the year ahead.
Rev. Joe Ryan,
One of the key messages I have heard from the Kurdish community often is that we must make sure that Abdullah Ocalan is not forgotten. The new year celebrations of Newroz will be an opportunity to remember Abdullah Ocalan and all political prisoners.
I look forward to joining the Kurdish community to show solidarity and support. As an Irishman, I hope to add my voice to the Kurdish struggle.
Happy Newroz!
Cllr Michel Pongo, Chadwell Heath Ward, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
As a councillor for Chadwell Heath Ward, I extend my warmest wishes to the Kurdish community celebrating Newroz. May this symbol of resilience, unity, and renewal bring you and your loved ones happiness, prosperity, and peace. Newroz piroz be!
Heledd Fychan, Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd for South Wales Central
Sending my warmest wishes to all Kurds celebrating Newroz. As we enter Spring, and reflect on a time of renewal, I am sending my message of support and solidarity with the Kurdish community here in Wales and beyond.
Krupesh Hirani AM, London Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow, Chair of the Health Committee and Labour lead for Health and Budget and Performance
Happy Newroz 2025! May the flames of hope and renewal bring joy and prosperity to the Kurdish community in Brent, Harrow and beyond. Wishing you a year of peace and unity.
Cllr Chris Lunday, Councillor for Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor
Newroz piroz be! Wishing the Kurdish community a joyful and peaceful Newroz filled with hope, renewal, and unity. May this new year bring strength, prosperity, and freedom to all who celebrate.
Cllr James Lancaster, Ward Councillor for Tattenhoe Ward, Deputy Mayor of Milton Keynes
Happy Newroz to the Kurdish community! Wishing this new year brings joy, peace, and strength to all! Wishing for unity in hope and prosperity as we embrace new beginnings!
Councillor Tom Miller, Labour, Willesden Green Ward
Very best wishes for Newroz from all at Brent Labour! May the fire of liberty be bright this year, for the Kurdish community here and in Kurdistan, and for all peoples in the Middle East who struggle to be free.
Katherine Iroh, Councillor for Billesley Ward
Happy Newroz to our British-Kurdish residents. May this spring be filled with peace and unity for all.
Councillor Zoe Barker-Lomax, Cllr for Waverley Borough
May this new year bring you joy, prosperity, and strength. Wishing you and your loved ones peace and renewal!
Mark Isherwood, Member of the Senedd, North Wales/Gogledd Cymru
Happy Newroz 2025! May your New Year be filled with renewal, joy and compassion as light triumphs over darkness.
Cllr Anthony Smith, Liberal Democrat for Lindley ward
Happy Newroz to the British-Kurdish community! May this Newroz bring renewal, joy, and hope for peace and prosperity to all. Let us celebrate the strength and resilience of the Kurdish spirit today and always.
Cllr Morris-Cook, Labour Councillor for Grays Riverside
As we welcome the arrival of spring, may this Newroz bring you and your loved ones joy, prosperity, and new beginnings. May your days be filled with the vibrant colours of blooming flowers, and your heart with the warmth of the sun. Let's celebrate this beautiful festival with love, laughter, and the spirit of renewal. Wishing you a wonderful Newroz filled with happiness and success!