A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to preserve and endure despite of overwhelming obstacles. Throughout history, women have always aimed for a recognized place in society. Guided by their own field of knowledge and expertise, women like Leyla Zana, Zakia Alkan, Perwin Babaker and Habsankhani Naqib to name a few, have played a significant role in maintaining the Kurdish identity and the progress that has been made thus far. Their efforts have helped redefine, consolidate and differentiate the nature of women's place within the Kurdish society from that of the Middle East. However, despite such progress, numerous inequalities still exist within our society and are perhaps surfacing the most among communities in United States. Many call for progress and reform, however; theories of progress may be enshrined in new laws but are only valid if they are experienced in the life of the people, young women in particular. In order to eradicate such inequalities and continue our struggle for a free Kurdistan, it is imperative that today’s young women become active especially those residing in the United States with the aid of their families and the community. It is unfortunate that most Kurdish families, adjusting to the Western life style, are facing many challenges due to cultural and language barriers. Although some tend to view these problems marginal compared to the difficulties throughout Kurdistan, they still have very dramatic effects. One of the main concerns facing our community today is the role of young women and their involvement in the Kurdish society.

While being abroad has provided us with many opportunities, it has also lead to disintegration and obstacles among our youth that might have not been there had we been in Kurdistan. However, as Gandhi stated: “In every great cause, it is not the number of fighters that counts, but it is the quality of which they are made that becomes the deciding factor.” While, without a doubt, the size of our Kurdish communities plays a role, it should not be the determining factor for one’s involvement with the Kurdish culture. It is important for today’s young women generation to hold a sense of belonging to their Kurdish communities and desire to be part of the process for the wanted change.

Courage and confidence in one’s personal beliefs is the corner stones of personal initiative; an initiative to aid the communities, starting with their own families. Such an example of personal courage and determination comes from a young Kurdish girl living in America who was not allowed to attend college upon graduating from high school. However, she did not let it stand in her way of obtaining an education. She began to take online courses through her local community college and is now in her third year. Such determination and motivation is an inspiration for young women everywhere to take advantage of the resources available to them and find an alternate and positive route of achieving their dreams rather than giving up. Education is the light that guides through the future and it is imperative for young Kurdish women to be independent and educated so that they may contribute to the progress of Kurdistan.

In addition, it is up to today’s young women to educate their parents, especially the mothers, about life in United States and create a sense of belonging. Such understanding will advance the Kurdish community via making them more aware of the resources available to them and bridging the gap that might exist with non-Kurdish communities. It is important for young women to be motivated and reach their potential. They must keep in mind that promoting their status and involvement in the Kurdish society can only be achieved by a strong determination and personal efforts to eliminate traditional prejudices through education. The dissemination of such valuable information is critical so that Kurdish women may fully develop their intellectual and physical capacities and participate actively in the decision-making process related to their political, economic and social development in the Kurdish societies.

http://www.kurdmedia.com/articles.asp?id=12524