Shingal — Massacres committed against women represent one of the most brutal forms of systematic violence throughout history, manifesting the ugliest expressions of exclusion and gender-based persecution—especially those perpetrated by deeply rooted patriarchal ideologies that aim to control women and their roles in life.

The popular uprising that began in Eastern Kurdistan and Iran following the murder of the young Kurdish woman Jina Amini has now entered its third year and continues to resonate globally. Yazidi women have reflected on the killing of women and their role in leading life, affirming that all massacres against women are committed with the full awareness of the patriarchal state.

Balkiz Jalal, a member of the Martyrs’ Families Foundation, stated that unless women organize themselves, they will always face massacres:

 "If a woman is oppressed, enslaved, and uneducated, she will inevitably become a target of massacre."

She pointed out that Yazidi women have historically suffered persecution and genocides, which in many cases have led to tragic outcomes such as self-immolation and suicide:

 "Forcing a woman to wear the veil is a violation of her personal freedom and has nothing to do with our Yazidi faith, which rejects suicide as an option. We aspire to a world where women’s lives are respected, and their killing comes to an end—everywhere."

Balkiz Jalal concluded by reaffirming the central role of women in life and society, stressing:

 "Woman is life itself. When a woman is free, aware of her existence, and capable of protecting herself, her will becomes unbreakable. No force can impose massacres on her or strip her of her dignity. Woman is the foundation of building society—she gives it life and continuity."

“The Ideology of Leader Öcalan Is a Beacon for Us”

For her part, Tori Faqir, a member of the Yazidi Women’s Freedom Movement (TAJÊ), recalled the crimes committed against women, noting that even the sight of a single strand of a woman’s hair can lead to her being massacred or killed. She asserted that men prevent women from living a dignified and meaningful life, stripping them of their freedom and suppressing their very existence.

She stated:

"We will not allow the ongoing killing of women or their imprisonment within the walls of their homes. We are continuing on our path, guided by the ideology of Leader Abdullah Öcalan, which has become a beacon for women in our society. We will remain committed to this thought, rejecting enslavement and subordination to any authority. Through awareness and deep understanding, we will recognize our uniqueness and will no longer allow massacres to be committed against Yazidi women."

She added that men have driven women to suicide, and such acts are their doing.

 "The gravest mistake a woman can make is to burn herself or take her own life."

Tori Faqir called on women to resist and defend themselves, stressing that women today are capable of doing everything—from seeking education to organizing and leading themselves:

 "Therefore, in order to protect their lives and live freely, women must know themselves."