Happy new Year of Aktiu

Today April 1st, Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian, CSA people welcome ancient Akitu New Year amid unprecedented sanitarian measures around the world and in the Middle East region where CSA people continue their existential struggle for survival in their forefather's lands.

As an ancient Mesopotamian festival and arrival of spring, Akitu is a symbol of new life, hope, and renewal. This is the beginning of the awakening of nature and new life. Chaldean -Syriac-Assyrian people continue to celebrate Akitu uninterruptedly in the homeland and also in different diaspora regions.

Following ISIS arrival in Nineveh Plains and Syria, Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian people faced genocide, killings, exodus while dozens of churches, monasteries, and historical monuments had been desecrated and destroyed. Despite all these challenges, Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian people continue their struggle to stay and return back to their lands and regions as a sign of hope and survival. Today, Nineveh Plains has slowly welcomed back its original habitants while creating new opportunities.

Amid a year of pandemic and uncertainty in the world, we embrace Akitu New Year. While the combat continues against Covid and government and decision-makers try to stop the pandemic, daily life becomes increasingly challenging. CSA people in Europe also facing a dilemma within this context. On this occasion of Akitu New Year, European Syriac Union, ESU wishes everyone Happy New Year of Akitu with blessings and health. May this year bring peace for our people.