Newroz

Mrs PEARCE (King) (15:16): Strong, courageous and determined. These are a few words that come to mind when I think of the people with Kurdish origins. To be honest, they have had to be all those things and more because for too long the Kurdish have struggled for freedom, independence and peace. They have had to fight not only for their land, their language, their food and their culture but for their right to exist because of the atrocious acts that have been perpetrated against them for generations.

Today is a very special day for their community. It is Newroz. With a history dating back over 3,000 years, there is no doubt that the Newroz festival holds deep meaning and importance in the hearts of many. It is a time for festivities and celebration, family reunion and new friendships. It brings with it a sense of renewal alongside all the hallmarks of Middle Eastern spring.

For Kurdish people, Newroz is also a symbolic celebration that marks their struggle for freedom, independence and peace. Over the Newroz period, we look back at the challenges and complications of the year that has passed. It is a time of reflection, to learn and to think on the lessons learnt—and reflecting on the year that has been for Kurdish people is deeply heartbreaking.

I have come to know my local Kurdish community very well during my time as the member for King. In fact, this community was one of the very first to welcome me with open arms when I first put my hand up to run for parliament. I am a big believer in striving for a better, fairer and more equitable future, and I am prepared to fight for that just like Kurdish people. They have suffered ethnic cleansing, disproportionate policing and incarceration. All they ask for is to be heard and given freedom of expression, to be able to gift their children Kurdish names—and have it be legal—because her name was Jina Amini and she should be remembered as such.

On that note, I want to thank my local Kurdish community for how hard they have fought this past year for their culture, particularly my good friend Tara. I respect how empowering Newroz can be. I read the following quote which highlights this:

The Newroz torch will always be a light on the path of our people, and we will liberate our people with the spirit of Newroz.

This celebration brings an incredibly unique sense of individuality with it. Their heritage, vibrancy and diversity, which I have been so fortunate to witness and participate in, is unrivalled. It is wonderful to see such passion for cultural history and to meet people who are so keen to share this with the greater community, because I know and appreciate that it is our diversity that helps to strengthen us.

Newroz encourages all to look forward to the year that is to come and the opportunities that undoubtedly lie ahead. To all celebrating today, I sincerely hope that this year blossoms with happiness for you and your families. May the light of Newroz bring your families good health, joy and freedom for Kurdistan. 'Newroz piroz be'—happy Newroz. May 2023 bring better tidings, lighting the path thanks to the spirit of Newroz.