A street festival to mark the 12th anniversary of the revolution in Rojava is taking place in Vienna this weekend. The event is organized by the Kurdish association Feykom and the “Defend Kurdistan” initiative. The Rojava Festival began on Saturday in front of the Kurdish community center.

The PYD, the Alevi association FEDA, the student association YXK and the women's council Avesta all have their information stands. In a welcoming speech, the fighters who defeated ISIS in Syria were celebrated. The struggle of women was highlighted. “Rojava is an alternative to the capitalist system. Rojava is a glimmer of hope and proof that revolutions are possible in the 21st century,” the activists said.

The promotion of the Viennese football club SV Rojava to a higher league was also celebrated. The team entered the festival grounds to applause and was awarded a medal. Afterwards there was dancing.

The stands sell books, food, bags with the inscription "Jin Jiyan Azadî" and other items. A tent commemorated the martyrs of the Rojava revolution. The rest of the program includes chess, tavla and table tennis.

The Rojava Festival continues today from 3 p.m. in Resselpark.