The Moorhead Human Rights Commission meeting on March 19, 2025, featured a significant presentation by Siham, a project lead with Creating Community Consulting, who discussed the Kurdish community's history and cultural significance in Moorhead. Siham highlighted the importance of March for the Kurdish people, marking it as a month of remembrance and celebration.

Siham explained that the Kurdish population, one of the largest ethnic groups without an official country, has a rich history rooted in the Middle East, particularly in regions of Iraq, Turkey, and Syria. She emphasized the resilience of the Kurdish people, who have faced persecution for centuries. The presentation included personal anecdotes about her family's journey to Moorhead, which began during the Gulf War in the 1990s when many Kurds fled violence and oppression.

A key focus of Siham's talk was the significance of March 16, a day commemorating the Halabja massacre in 1988, when thousands of Kurds were killed by chemical attacks ordered by Saddam Hussein. This tragic event is remembered globally and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the Kurdish people. Additionally, March 20 marks Nowruz, the Kurdish New Year, celebrated with community gatherings, bonfires, and cultural festivities.

Siham also pointed out the growing Kurdish presence in Moorhead, noting that they now represent nearly 8% of the city's population. She encouraged community members to visit the historical society exhibit showcasing Kurdish stories and contributions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and celebrating cultural diversity.

The meeting underscored the Kurdish community's efforts to maintain their identity and promote human rights, particularly for women, amidst ongoing challenges in their homeland. Siham's presentation served as a call to action for the Moorhead community to engage with and support their Kurdish neighbors, fostering a deeper understanding of their rich heritage and ongoing struggles.