Xanthi Turkish Union commemorates January 29: "A turning point against discrimination"
The Xanthi Turkish Union (İTB) has released an official statement marking January 29 National Resistance and Social Solidarity Day, emphasizing its significance in the Western Thrace Turkish Minority’s struggle against discriminatory policies and the denial of their national identity.
The statement reads:
"January 29, 1988, was the day when Western Thrace Turks raised their voices against injustices and declared their defiance. It is a day of honor, where the Turkish community of Western Thrace said 'NO' to discrimination, oppression, and the denial of its identity. January 29 marks a turning point when the Western Thrace Turks firmly rejected being treated as second-class citizens."
The union highlighted that, despite the 37 years since this historic moment, the denial of Turkish identity and ongoing injustices persist. The statement condemned efforts to silence and marginalize the community, pointing out that even the term "Western Thrace" is now being restricted.
Additionally, the dismantling of minority education was a key concern, as the statement accused authorities of deliberately creating obstacles instead of improving conditions for minority schools. The Lozan Treaty and international laws, which guarantee minority education rights, are being ignored, the union stated.
The İTB also recalled the January 29, 1990, pogrom, during which severe attacks targeted the Turkish community, leaving a lasting impact. Despite 35 years, the Greek state has yet to acknowledge these events or offer an apology.
The statement concluded:
"The Western Thrace Turkish Minority has fought for its democratic rights and gained basic citizenship rights through its struggles. However, 37 years after January 29, 1988, there has been no progress in securing collective minority rights. The European Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of the Xanthi Turkish Union and other minority associations 17 years ago, yet the Greek state has failed to implement these decisions.
We continue to stand firm in our democratic and legal fight for our rights. We commemorate those who dedicated their lives to this cause with respect and gratitude, and we reaffirm our commitment to preserving our national identity and legal rights."
