The Kurdish Women's Movement in Europe (TJK-E) released a written statement to mark Abdullah Öcalan's 73rd birthday on April 4th.

“We congratulate all humanity, our people and women, specifically Öcalan, on the 4th of April, the birthday of a democratic, ecological, pro-women society” said the TJK-E statement released on Monday, which further includes the following:

“Öcalan has taught us how to wage the war of truth throughout his life. He has taught that physical births can be meaningful and valuable through the creation of a free life, society and personality. Great births can be possible through the creation of freedom against slavery, democracy against exploitation and equality against power.

The 4th of April represents the day to overcome domination, fascism, all kinds of exploitation and the male-dominated system. It is the birthday of humans, women, and all people who have recreated themselves on this basis and realized their rebirth.

Öcalan is welcoming his birthday under heavy isolation imposed by the fascist AKP-MHP regime and the Western states that support them. There has been a great historic struggle against the inhumane, aggravated isolation and oppressive policies.

Together with the Kurdish leader, we, too, as all women, workers and peoples, particularly Kurdish women, reiterate our promise to raise our struggle against fascism and this system. In response to the genocidal attacks, we will make every day a new birth in the spirit of April 4th as part of the 'Time for Freedom' campaign.

We are celebrating April 4 with the enthusiasm of March 8 and Newroz. Led by women, the April 4th celebrations will continue as our struggle will be carried out throughout the year. We are aware of the fact that we must fulfil our responsibility to secure the physical freedom of Öcalan.

On this basis, we urge our people, especially the Kurdish women, to welcome the 4th of April to secure the freedom of Öcalan, women and peoples by raising our struggle for freedom and democracy.

We once again congratulate Öcalan, all women, our people and our holy and fighting mothers on Öcalan’s birthday.”