April 23 celebrated early in Athens with children’s event at Turkish Embassy

The event, organized under the auspices of Ambassador Çağatay Erciyes, brought together members of the Turkish community and their children for a festive program held five days ahead of the official holiday.

Ceremony Blends Tradition and Education
The celebration began with a moment of silence followed by the singing of the Turkish national anthem by participating children. In his address, Ambassador Erciyes congratulated the children and explained the historical significance of April 23.

He highlighted the founding of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye on April 23, 1920, noting that the date symbolizes national sovereignty and the launch of Türkiye’s War of Independence under elected representatives.

Erciyes also recalled that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk dedicated the day to children, recognizing them as the nation’s future.

“Our Great Leader saw you as Türkiye’s greatest treasure. That is why today belongs to you,” he told the audience.

Message to Families on Digital Awareness
Addressing parents, the ambassador also raised concerns about recent school-related incidents and the growing risks associated with the digital world. He urged families to guide children carefully and protect them from potential online harms.

Performances and Interactive Activities
The ceremony featured presentations and poetry recitals by children, including performances by Duru Hançer, Ceren Ulusoy, Gökçen Akçay, Buse Ömer, Uraz Ali Kara, and Derin and Deren Kayadelen.

In keeping with a longstanding April 23 tradition, Ambassador Erciyes symbolically handed over his seat to children, allowing them to experience diplomacy firsthand and take commemorative photographs.

Following the formal program, children participated in face painting activities and received Turkish-language books as gifts.