Members statements
Newroz
Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (13:16): Today is Newroz, the celebration of the Kurdish New Year. Newroz marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of light over evil. The occasion has been symbolised by the lighting of ceremonial fires for over 2000 years. The fires represent the survival of the Kurdish people and our burning desire for peace, freedom and unity. Kurdish Australians typically gather with family and friends, lighting fires, dancing and exchanging gifts. This year’s Newroz celebration, however, has a more sombre tone in light of the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, which deeply impacted the Kurdish community over there and obviously the diaspora. I would like to wish the whole Kurdish community in Victoria and across the globe a happy new year. Newroz pîroz be.