Dear Syriac People,
Esteemed Friends, and All Communities in Solidarity,
Today, we celebrate the Akitu Festival—one of the most ancient and cherished traditions of our rich history—with profound joy and pride. With a legacy spanning over 6,775 years, Akitu not only marks the arrival of spring but also embodies the spirit of resistance, renewal, and the enduring struggle for freedom of our people.
Observed on April 1st, the Akitu Festival is a living heritage of the Syriac-Assyrian-Chaldean-Aramean peoples. It is a celebration of our harmonious relationship with nature, a tribute to its awakening in springtime, and an expression of gratitude for abundance and the joy of life. For centuries, across these ancestral lands, we have welcomed the return of life—the flowing rivers, blossoming trees, and the shining sun—with hearts full of hope and celebration. Through Akitu, our people have proudly upheld their labor, identity, and cultural legacy.
Today, as Syriacs living in Europe, we continue to safeguard our deep-rooted heritage while engaging with the realities of a modern world. Akitu is more than a historical commemoration—it stands as a powerful symbol of our national unity, freedom, and cultural identity.
As the European Syriac Union, we remain steadfast in our commitment to preserving our national identity, promoting our language, and nurturing our cultural values. This Akitu, we celebrate not only in Europe but in unity with our people across the globe.
On this meaningful day, we renew our call for freedom and justice and reaffirm our confidence in the younger generations who will carry this legacy forward with pride.
Akitu is a festival of rebirth and resilience. We celebrate it with unwavering faith in our collective future and a firm dedication to our national values.