AUK Library Hosts Author Ava Homa in Celebration of World Book & Copyright Day

The Library at the American University of Kurdistan (AUK) organized a special event in honor of World Book & Copyright Day, a global celebration aimed at promoting the love of reading and recognizing the significance of books. Ava Homa, the renowned author of “Daughters of Smoke and Fire,” was invited to be the guest speaker.

Ava Homa, a highly regarded author, speaker, activist, and faculty member at California State University, Monterey Bay, shared her insights and experiences during a pre-recorded session that was played in the Auditorium on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

“Daughters of Smoke and Fire” tells a powerful story of a young woman’s courageous fight for freedom and justice for her brother. During her message to AUK students, Ava Homa emphasized the importance of recognizing one’s own power and identity, particularly in the face of challenges. She urged the audience to appreciate their individual strengths and not to underestimate their significance.

“You are more important than you think; do not give your power away. You have a lot of power,” Homa expressed. “It’s very difficult to be a Kurd in this world, but there is a spirit of courage and resistance that we have inherited from our ancestors that other people are lacking. Take pride in who you are.”

Homa encouraged attendees to be kind to themselves and value their power. She emphasized the importance of sharing that power with fellow Kurds, and promoting unity and empowerment within the community. According to Homa, relying on external sources for validation and support is insufficient, and it is the responsibility of Kurds to uplift one another.

The AUK Library’s initiative to host Ava Homa as a guest speaker on World Book & Copyright Day reflects AUK’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive society, by bringing together individuals from around the world to engage in important discussions.