Syrians Celebrate First Freedom Day After Decades of Oppression

On December 8, 2024, Syria marked a historic turning point with the announcement of liberation from the authoritarian rule of the Assad regime. This momentous event, declared at precisely 18:18 Damascus time, ushered in a new era for Syrians who have yearned for freedom from decades of oppression. A year later, on December 8, 2025, thousands gathered in Damascus to commemorate the first anniversary of this significant occasion, now known as Liberation Day.

A Journey of Hope and Homecoming

Among those celebrating was Shaymaa Arif, an Iraqi-Syrian New Zealander who returned to her homeland for the first time since the regime’s fall. For her and many others, this was not merely a journey back to a physical place but an emotional return to a long-awaited sense of belonging. Arif, whose family had endured the pain of separation for over a decade, felt the weight of history as she crossed into Syria with her mother and younger sisters, marking a poignant reunion after more than twenty years apart.

Reflecting on her experiences, Arif recounted her mother’s commitment never to return until Syria was free. “I won’t go back to Syria until it’s freed,” her mother had vowed. This promise echoed through years of hardship and longing, ultimately fulfilled on that fateful December day.

Arif’s journey back in 2022 was marked by the harsh realities of life under dictatorship. Syria remained gripped by fear, and the regime’s presence was palpable in the streets. “Everywhere I turned, there was a reminder of oppression,” she recalled. The anguish of family members who suffered at the hands of the regime deepened her resolve to witness her homeland’s struggles firsthand.

A Day of Celebration and Reflection

In stark contrast, the atmosphere during the 2025 anniversary was electrifying. The streets of Damascus buzzed with conversations about politics and the future, a stark departure from the silence that once dominated public discourse. For the first time in decades, Syrians spoke openly, sharing dreams and aspirations without fear of reprisal. The liberation had not only freed the land but also rejuvenated the spirit of its people.

During the commemoration, Arif and her family reunited with relatives from across the region. “Family became whole again,” she noted, emphasizing the significance of these connections that had been strained by time and conflict. The celebration included a vibrant display of Syrian flags, symbolizing the unity and resilience of a people who had long endured despair.

Yet, Arif acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead. “Syria is still healing,” she stated, recognizing the arduous journey of rebuilding both infrastructure and the mental well-being of its citizens. The scars of war and oppression are deep, but the presence of hope and possibility is now palpable across the nation.

As Syrians gathered to celebrate their newfound freedom, the memories of those who fought for this moment were not forgotten. Arif paid tribute to individuals who sacrificed their lives for the cause, including Mazen Hamada, Abdul Basset Saroot, and Hamza Al Khateeb, among others. Their commitment and bravery serve as a reminder of the price paid for freedom.

The journey of liberation is only beginning. As Syrians look forward to rebuilding their homeland, the emotional and communal aspects of freedom become intertwined with political changes. The air in Damascus feels different—laughter echoes in the streets, shops remain open later, and a sense of normalcy is gradually returning.

For Arif, the experience of celebrating the first Freedom Day was transformative. “For the first time in my life, I saw Syria’s true face,” she expressed, witnessing a nation infused with resilience and hope. The liberation had opened a door to possibility, allowing Syrians to reclaim their identity and their future.

As the event drew to a close, Arif reflected on the profound significance of the day: “We are finally going back to and rebuilding a Syria that is ours.” The path ahead may be long, but with each step, the dream of a free Syria inches closer to reality.