A beacon of Kurdish enlightenment and women’s rights
The Bedirxan family has long been at the forefront of Kurdish history, contributing significantly to the intellectual and revolutionary spirit that has defined the Kurdish struggle. Renowned not only as soldiers and martyrs but also as influential figures in the Kurdish freedom movement, the Bedirxans embody a rich legacy of activism and resistance.
Among them, Rewşen Bedirxan stands out as a pivotal figure in the advancement of Kurdish women’s rights and cultural revolution. Despite living in exile, she dedicated herself to educating and inspiring future generations, challenging imperialism, and advocating for Kurdish sovereignty. Her work illuminated the struggles and sacrifices of Kurdish women, while her advocacy for their education and independence marked her as a staunch supporter of women’s rights during a period of great turmoil.
Born on July 11, 1909, in Kayseri, Turkey, Rewşen’s early life was shaped by her father’s political exile. After relocating to Istanbul and later Damascus, she pursued her education with determination, eventually becoming one of Syria’s first female teachers. Her career included significant roles as a school superintendent and Arabic teacher, and she was a member of the Syrian Women’s Union from 1934.
Rewşen’s marriage to Mir Celadet Bedirxan in 1935 was a significant chapter in her life, lasting until his death in 1951. Her contributions to the women’s movement were substantial, including her participation in the 1944 World Women’s Congress in Egypt and her prolific work in writing and translation. She authored and translated over ten books in multiple languages, including Arabic, French, Turkish, Kurdish, and English.
After retiring in 1965, Rewşen Bedirxan lived in Damascus until 1972 before spending her final years in Baniyas. She passed away on June 1, 1992, and was laid to rest beside her husband and Bedirxan Beg in the Sheikh Khalid Naqshbandi cemetery in Damascus.
Rewşen Bedirxan’s enduring legacy is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the Kurdish cause and the empowerment of women, solidifying her place as a key figure in Kurdish history.