Shingal – On October 30, the Yazidi Women’s Freedom Movement (TAJÊ), in collaboration with the Yazidi Young Women’s Union and Shingal’s Self-Administration, launched a unified awareness campaign under the slogan: “Don’t Kill Yourself, Every Suicide Is Genocide.”

TAJÊ’s Diplomatic Relations spokesperson, Siham Shingali, explained that the campaign, part of activities for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Shingal’s 10th liberation anniversary, aims to raise community awareness about the dangers of suicide as a result of systemic social pressures, not a personal choice.

“Suicide in Shingal: A Crisis of Psychology and Social Oppression”

Siham Shingali emphasized the importance of the campaign “Don’t Kill Yourself, Every Suicide Is Genocide,” particularly amid the alarming rise in suicide cases in Shingal, where many young women—and increasingly young men—are taking their own lives.

“Our goal is to reduce this dangerous phenomenon, which stems from multiple causes, including psychological and social pressures, wars, and restrictions imposed especially on young women,” she said.

Shingali added that many young people see no alternative solutions and view death as an escape, spreading a culture of surrender and collapse within society. The campaign, she explained, seeks to dismantle the mindset that portrays suicide as a form of liberation, and instead promote a collective awareness that views life as a path of struggle and change.

She also noted that psychological pressure affects not only young women but men as well, with rising suicide rates among them. “The environment we live in paves the way for suicide, and digital media plays a major role in influencing society,” she said. “Our community is unlike any other—it has endured 74 genocides. Digital media keeps reopening these wounds, intensifying despair. A psychological war is being waged, especially against young women, making them more vulnerable to collapse.

“Liberation of Shingal: A New Birth for the Yazidi People”

Siham Shingali highlighted the significance of November 13, the anniversary of Shingal’s liberation, describing it as a historic moment and a rebirth for the Yazidi community.

“We begin our celebration by dedicating it to Leader Öcalan and all the martyrs who watered Shingal’s soil with their blood, serving as beacons of hope on the path to freedom. The liberation of Shingal was not merely a military victory but a new birth for a people who thought they would never see the light again, especially those who survived massacres and witnessed ISIS brutality firsthand,” she said.

She added, “The Shingal Resistance Units and Women’s Units, composed of young Yazidi men and women, waged an 11-month heroic struggle, restoring hope to the hearts of the people and proving that willpower is stronger than weapons.”

Shingali criticized attempts to distort history: “While the Kurdistan Democratic Party withdrew and most areas fell to ISIS, Shingal alone resisted. Dozens of photos and footage document this truth, showing Shingal’s resistance as a bastion of humanity.”

She emphasized, “Despite the evidence, some still deny the truth, claiming credit for the liberation and ignoring the sacrifices of those who stood firm. Those who witnessed liberation know the truth, having lived through every moment.”

The liberation, she noted, was achieved through the heroic resistance of freedom fighters. “Dozens were martyred in the final stages of battle. These heroes must never be forgotten; their resistance in Shingal’s mountains was the true shield protecting land and dignity.”

Shingali added, “Today, Shingal’s Women’s Units and Resistance Units, which played a pivotal role in liberation, continue to fulfill their national duty responsibly. Shingal cannot be discussed without recognizing these forces and the self-administration; without them, no one could step foot on this land.”

She concluded, “Shingal is not just a geographic area; it is a symbol of will and resilience. From liberation until now, these forces continue to protect the community and uphold their responsibilities. This truth must remain alive in collective memory, representing the essence of the Yazidi struggle for freedom and dignity.