29 January commemorated in Meschede
The Meschede Western Thrace Turks Solidarity and Aid Association, a member of the Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF), held a commemoration event on Sunday, February 2, to mark the 37th anniversary of January 29 – Day of Social Solidarity and National Resistance.
A Meaningful Commemoration with Distinguished Guests
The event, held at the association’s local venue, was attended by ABTTF President Halit Habipoğlu, ABTTF Audit Committee member Şerif Şerif, as well as executives and members of the Meschede association.
The commemoration began with a moment of silence, followed by an opening speech by Şerif Şerif, Vice President of the Meschede Association and ABTTF Audit Committee member. He highlighted that on January 29, 1988, the Turkish community of Western Thrace marched under the slogan “We exist in Western Thrace, we are Turks!” Since then, the day has been observed annually as the Day of Social Solidarity and National Resistance.
ABTTF President: ‘The Struggle Continues with Determination’
ABTTF President Halit Habipoğlu emphasized that on January 29, 1988, Western Thrace Turks took to the streets to assert their existence against the Greek state, which denied their identity. Despite the passage of 37 years, key organizations like İskeçe Turkish Union, Komotini Turkish Youth Union, and Western Thrace Turkish Teachers’ Union still lack legal recognition, with their signboards removed and their rights ignored.
Even after winning cases at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), Greece has failed to implement ECHR rulings for 17 years, refusing to recognize İskeçe Turkish Union, Rhodope Turkish Women’s Cultural Association, and Evros Minority Youth Association. Habipoğlu stressed that, despite decades of oppression, discrimination, and rights violations, Western Thrace Turks have not given up.
He also reminded that one month after the historic march, on February 28, 1988, the ABTTF was founded to support the rights and democratic struggle of Western Thrace Turks in the international arena.
Event Concludes with Traditional Delicacies
The commemoration ended with Meschede Association members serving homemade pastries and desserts to the guests, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.
