02/05/2024 | Writer: Selma Koçak
May Day was celebrated in various cities of Turkey. LGBTI+’s who took to the streets with rainbow flags were subjected to attacks and obstructions in some cities.
Tandoğan Square in Ankara served as the focal point for this year’s May 1st Labour Day demonstration, drawing together a diverse coalition of trade unions and professional organizations, including Confederation of Progressive Trade Unions of Turkey (DISK), Confederation of Public Employees Trade Unions (KESK), Turkish Medical Association (TTB), and Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB).
Laborers converged in front of the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) before embarking on a march towards Tandoğan, symbolizing their collective strength and determination. Notably, the LGBTI+ community, answering the call of the Ankara Pride Week Committee, marched alongside, proudly waving flags representing their identities. This shift marked a departure from the previous year's separate procession, highlighting a move towards greater inclusivity and unity within the movement. LGBTI+ flags and banners saying “I’m a worker, I’m a faggot, I’m angry at the boss” were waved in Ankara May Day celebrations held in Tandoğan Square.
However, despite their presence and solidarity, the demands for LGBTI+ rights were notably absent from the joint May Day statement issued by DISK, KESK, TTB, and TMMOB.
In other cities like Mersin, Izmir, and Denizli, the LGBTI+ community faced hostility and discrimination. Reports emerged of attacks on LGBTI+ flags and activists being barred from participating in the celebrations. Nevertheless, resilience prevailed as LGBTI+ individuals continued to assert their presence and demand recognition within the labor movement.
In Istanbul, the 10th Trans Pride Week unfurled a banner questioning the exclusion of LGBTI+ workers, emphasizing their integral role in the workforce; “Does Different Shifts Invalidate Our Status as Workers?”
Similar sentiments echoed in Mersin and Izmir, where despite police intervention and opposition, LGBTI+ activists marched under banners advocating for equality and inclusion.
However, challenges persisted, exemplified by an incident in Denizli where a citizen attacked an individual carrying an LGBTI+ flag, citing concerns about “corrupting the youth.” Such incidents underscore the ongoing struggle for LGBTI+ rights and acceptance within broader society.
As Labour Day celebrations unfolded across Turkey, the collective efforts of labor unions and LGBTI+ activists served as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and dignity in the workplace and beyond.
Tags: human rights
