Today marks the 100th anniversary of the martyrdom of Abdulkadir Abdulwaris, widely known as Abdulkadir Damolla, a revolutionary scholar and religious leader who was a prominent figure in the Uyghur Enlightenment Movement. We honor his memory and reaffirm our commitment to carrying forward the torch he lit. Born in Artush in 1881, Abdulkadir Damolla pursued his education locally before traveling to Bukhara for advanced studies. Upon returning to his homeland, he launched the Uyghur Enlightenment Movement in East Turkistan, countering the Chinese militants' oppressive policies aimed at keeping the Uyghur population uneducated.

Abdulkadir Damolla became one of the leading figures of the Jadid movement among the Uyghurs, a reformist and awakening movement that spread throughout the Muslim Turkic world at the end of the 19th century. His efforts were pivotal in fostering intellectual and cultural revival among the Uyghurs, emphasizing the importance of education and progress in the face of adversity. His work laid the foundation for future generations to continue the struggle for enlightenment and freedom in East Turkistan.

Tragically, in 1924, this great scholar was betrayed and killed by a traitor who had sold his soul to the oppressors. However, his spirit continues to live on among the Uyghurs, inspiring them in their ongoing pursuit of knowledge and justice. Today, as we remember Abdulkadir Damolla, we also renew our determination to uphold his legacy and continue the struggle for the rights and dignity of the Uyghur people.

August 14 2024