MIBRIBAN SALAM

Halabja — Culture is not merely a collection of customs, clothing, and songs; it is identity, history, and national memory. For the Kurdish people, who have faced various changes and threats throughout their history, protecting culture holds special significance.

For Kurds, protecting culture means protecting existence. Culture has become a wall and a fortress for them, and women in particular have been the guardians of culture, always striving to preserve it from extinction.

Azima Aziz, President of the "Bella" Organization for Cultural Development, spoke about efforts to protect culture: "Our organization is part of culture, and we pay greater attention to people working in the cultural field, in various areas—from music and art to handicrafts."

She noted that caring for culture is part of national responsibility. "We care about the culture of our ancestors. We also pay great attention to Kurdish dress, which is widely worn today."

"Let Us Make Festivals Platforms for Cultural Renewal"

Azima Aziz affirmed that Kurds have their own history and identity. "Today, through the many festivals, we can preserve our culture. For example, a guest comes and sees a Kurdish shirt or a beautiful scarf, likes it, buys it, and later uses it. Or when girls see these things, we remember what our mothers used to wear. Therefore, we must present our mothers' clothing and our culture to future generations."

Women Are the Guardians of Culture

Regarding what should be done to preserve and sustain Kurdish culture, Azima Aziz pointed out that women, in particular, are the guardians of culture, and they can influence their husbands and children by wearing Kurdish clothing.

She says: "My message is that women should not lose authentic Kurdish culture, that they should pay greater attention to it and pass it forward. We should also raise our children and future generations in a way that makes them love their culture and take pride in it."