Mufti of Xanthi Trampa gives conference on the challenges of being a Muslim Turk in Western Thrace
İskeçe Mufti Mustafa Trampa spoke at a conference organized by the Rumeli Youth Association of Trakya University in Edirne, shedding light on the difficulties faced by Muslim Turks in Western Thrace. He emphasized the cultural significance of language, stating, "Our language shapes our culture. The Greek state’s greatest effort is to eliminate our Turkish language and prevent its transmission."
Trampa highlighted that, historically, many people in Anatolia mistakenly believed Western Thrace to be a small town in regions like Edirne or Tekirdağ. He explained that, following the Lausanne Peace Treaty, Western Thrace was defined as the area stretching from Meriç to Karasu, with an approximate population of 100,000-120,000.
Trampa emphasized the limited freedoms related to language and religion, noting that Western Thrace Turks cannot fully practice their traditions. He criticized the Greek state for undermining Turkish schools and the teaching of Turkish culture, calling it a deliberate strategy to erode their identity. He added that while some efforts to disconnect the younger generation from their heritage have been partially successful, the community continues to fight for its cultural survival.
He also discussed the neglect and repurposing of Ottoman-era structures in the region, arguing that the Greek government aims to erase the historical presence of Turks and the Ottoman influence.
