16/04/2024 | Writer: Boran Mergen
Ronya and Deniz, representing the Keskesor Amed LGBTI+ Initiative, provided their perspective in an interview with KaosGL.org concerning the events surrounding the Amed Newroz festivities.
On March 17th LGBTI+ individuals seeking to join Newroz festivities in İstanbul and İzmir, displaying LGBTI+ flags, been subjected to attacks by groups purporting to be Kurdish nationalists. The İstanbul Newroz 2024 Organizing Committee had issued a statement addressing the attacks against LGBTI+ individuals and had said: “The Newroz serves as a platform where the voices of the oppressed, marginalized, and overlooked resonate with their demands and will continue to do so.”
Ronya and Deniz, representing the Keskesor Amed LGBTI+ Initiative, provided their perspective in an interview with KaosGL.org concerning the events surrounding the Amed Newroz festivities.
Deniz emphasized that Newroz symbolizes unity and the collective pursuit of freedom for all, stating, “I believe that Newroz signifies the arrival of spring, but it’s also a day of resistance. It’s a moment where millions unite in the fight for freedom. It’s a day of convergence for diverse groups.” Meanwhile, Ronya expressed, “Newroz signifies rebirth for me.”
Deniz highlighted the importance of Newroz as a platform to advocate for peace, democracy, and freedom, emphasizing, “Our presence as lubunyas (queers) in this festival of resistance is vital for voicing our rights and contributing our unique perspective to the cause. And also taking part in the field with our own color. Participating actively is crucial for expressing our demands.” Similarly, Ronya reflected, “As lubunyas, we stand in solidarity with the Kurdish freedom struggle while advocating for our own liberation. Newroz symbolizes our collective festival of resistance.”
Deniz expressed solidarity saying: “Our demands are aligned. Newroz unites us all. I’m also rebelling alongside you. We share the same struggles and enter that space with shared demands. My presence shouldn't unsettle you; it should empower you. Let's strengthen together.” And Ronya echoed, “I feel the need to be there because I embody both aspects within myself.”
Ronya highlighted that “following the attacks in Istanbul and Izmir, the security measures at Amed Newroz have been heightened” emphasizing, “The precautions observed at Amed Newroz this year should serve as a model for all cities. Hopefully, these practices will inspire other cities.”
Finally, Ronya gave the following message to the LGBTI+ movement and lubunyas:
“In response to the escalating violence against LGBTI+ individuals during Newroz festivities, it's imperative for all supportive institutions, including fellow LGBTI+ organizations, to demonstrate solidarity and stand shoulder to shoulder with LGBTI+ individuals during special occasions, particularly Newroz, and at large gatherings. They must do so. There was a chant echoing in the Newroz grounds: ‘there is no salvation alone — it is either all of us together, or none of us at all!’ It's crucial to uphold this chant's spirit.”
* This article has been produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its content is under the sole responsibility of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
Translation: Selma Koçak
Tags: human rights, beda
