Today, on International Women’s Day, we honor the Syriac-Aramean women – those who have carried our history, our culture, and our language through the ages. Our women have always been courageous, wise, and determined, and their contributions have shaped both our people and the world.
We remember Queen Zenobia, the proud ruler of Palmyra, who stood against the Roman Empire and showed the world that a woman can be a strong leader, a strategist, and a role model. Her wisdom and bravery remind us that our history is filled with women who refused to be limited.
We also honor Queen Theodora, the Syriac actress who later became Empress of Byzantium. Alongside her husband, Emperor Justinian, she changed history. She fought for women’s rights, strengthened laws against oppression, and gave women a voice in a time when few were willing to listen.
But we do not only celebrate queens and empresses – we honor our mothers, sisters, and daughters. Those who, in silence, have sacrificed, worked hard, and fought for our families and our future. Those who have preserved our language and faith, shaped generations, and carried our heritage forward.
Let this day be a reminder that we stand on the shoulders of mighty women and that together, we continue to fight for justice, freedom, and equality. To all Syriac-Aramean women: we see you, we honor you, and we stand with you – today and always.
ܚܝ̈ܠܝܢ ܐܢܬܝܢ – You are strong!