JINHA

EFRÎN -  Thousands of women marched and danced in the streets of Efrîn to celebrate March 8, International Women's Day.

At the rally, called by the Democratic Autonomous Administration, women bore the flags of Yekîtiya Star (the grassroots women's organization), TEV-DEM (the grassroots democratic political movement) and the YPJ as they marched through the streets in their national dress.

"We're celebrating March 8 with the spirit of resistance of Arîn Mîrxan, and we'll seek revenge for SakineCansız, Rosa, and the women of Shengal and Ninova" read one sign, referring to recent Daesh massacres against Êzîdî and Assyrian and Syriac women; martyrs of the Kurdish freedom struggle; and socialist and feminist Rosa Luxemburg.

After a minute of silence for those who lost their lives in the struggle for democracy, women had a moment of silence and then sang the Kurdish march "EyReqîp."

Women read PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan's March 8 message at the rally. It was met with ululations and slogans in support.

TEV-DEM Administrative Committee Member ÎlhamEhmed spoke, saying that the Rojava revolution, which was now led by women, was a product of the philosophy of Abdullah Öcalan.

Speakers are continuing at the rally.

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