Died: 2016
Biography:
Asia Ramazan Antar, also known as Viyan Antar, was a Kurdish Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) fighter who became a symbol of the feminist struggle in the Rojava conflict and in the fight against ISIS, as recognized by the international media. Born into a Kurdish family, Antar married at a young age through an arranged marriage. However, after just three months, she divorced and made the bold decision to join the ranks of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) in order to fight for the emancipation of women from patriarchal oppression in the region.
In 2014, Antar joined the YPJ with the purpose of combating the Islamic State, which had unleashed a wave of terror and violence throughout the region. Her bravery and determination caught the attention of photojournalists, who captured her image and described her as the Kurdish Angelina Jolie due to her physical resemblance to the famous actress. These photos quickly circulated across the internet, propelling Antar into the spotlight and making her an emblematic figure of the fight against ISIS.
Despite the international media dubbing her the Kurdish Angelina Jolie, these comparisons were criticized by other Kurdish fighters and activists who considered them sexist and objectifying. Antar’s role as a fierce warrior and dedicated feminist was overshadowed by the focus on her superficial appearance, undermining the noble cause for which she fought.
Antar’s untimely death on August 30, 2016, marked a tragic loss for the Kurdish community and the ongoing battle against ISIS. Three ISIS suicide bombers drove cars filled with explosives towards the Kurdish front line, and while Antar and her fellow YPJ fighters managed to destroy two of the cars, one detonated near her, ultimately claiming her life.
Her death reverberated across social media and news outlets, with headlines emphasizing her physical resemblance to Angelina Jolie rather than highlighting her significant contributions to the fight against ISIS. This treatment was highly criticized by supporters of the Kurdish cause, who argued that it minimized Antar’s ideals and the progress she had made for women in Rojava during her time with the YPJ.
Throughout her life, Asia Ramazan Antar upheld the values of bravery, feminism, and resistance against oppressive forces. Her story serves as a testament to the strength and determination of Kurdish women in their fight for freedom and gender equality.