ABTTF condemns “Kalanta” event at Minority School in İskeçe: “No good intentions”
The Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF) has strongly criticized the event, arguing that it disregards the students’ cultural and religious identity.
“Religious Identity Cannot Be Ignored”
In a written statement, ABTTF President Halit Habipoğlu described the event as unacceptable, emphasizing that no Christian students attend the school.
“It is absolutely unacceptable for a religious ritual identified with Orthodox Christianity to be performed in a state middle school attended exclusively by students belonging to the Western Thrace Turkish community,” Habipoğlu stated.
He argued that organizing such an event while disregarding the students’ cultural and religious identity demonstrates a lack of good faith.
Allegations of Assimilation
Habipoğlu further characterized the event as:
- An attack on the religious and cultural values of the minority community
- An act that distances students from their identity
- An initiative perceived as aiming at assimilation
“We strongly condemn this event, which openly targets our community’s religious and cultural values and seeks to assimilate our students by distancing them from their identity,” he said.
The ABTTF called on Greek authorities to fully respect students’ freedom of religion and conscience and to take necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ongoing Debate on Religious Freedom in Education
The controversy has reignited debate over minority rights, religious freedom, and multicultural education policy in Western Thrace — a region with a recognized Muslim minority under international treaties.
Observers note that the issue touches on broader discussions about pluralism, state neutrality in education, and the balance between cultural exchange and religious sensitivity in public schools.
