Children march in Kadıköy: 'We will see beautiful days'

On the occasion of the April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day, a large children's march was held in Kadıköy. Organized by the People's Representatives Assembly of Turkey (THTM), the event took place with the participation of thousands under the slogan "Children are marching for beautiful days." The march began at 15.00 following the Children's Festival held at the Nâzım Hikmet Cultural Center (NHKM). Children formed the front rows of the marching cortege with a banner reading "We will see beautiful days."

YOUTH CALL FOR "EQUALITY AND A SECURE FUTURE"

Speaking after the march on behalf of the THTM Student Initiatives, a high school student stated that April 23 is a symbol of the responsibility given to children and youth, and expressed that they are not disconnected from the realities of the country. The student sent greetings to their friends who were pulled away from life while receiving education in vocational high schools and MESEMs (Vocational Training Centers), and to Berkin Elvan, who lost his life years ago on his way to buy bread.

The students emphasized that they demand a fair and secure life, saying, "If children are not safe, it becomes difficult to talk about the future in that country." Stating that "equality of opportunity in education must be ensured, and our friends should not risk their lives due to economic difficulties," the student said that high school students will continue to strengthen themselves by supporting each other through high school solidarity networks.

TEACHERS EMPHASIZE "FAIR EDUCATION"

Speaking after the march, THTM Teachers' Initiative spokesperson, teacher Selma, stated that April 23 is a day to remember the responsibility of shaping children's futures. The teachers expressed that they strive to teach the sense of justice and the culture of living together in classrooms, while also defending the right of children to live in a more equal and free country.

Stating that children are growing up with anxiety, pressure, and insecurity in a period where inequalities are increasing, teacher Selma emphasized that schools have moved away from being public spaces where children can freely express themselves. "We do not accept the mentality that surrounds children with reactionary practices," she said, and touched upon the importance of defending an education system where children can dream, make mistakes, and express themselves.

PARENTS INVITE TO ORGANIZED STRUGGLE

Speaking on behalf of the parents, Kaya Tokmakçıoğlu drew attention to the increasing incidents of violence in schools recently and said that hope must be nurtured alongside anxiety and anger. Stating that this hope can only be possible through organized struggle, Tokmakçıoğlu invited all parents to solidarity and to participate in the events to be held in Kartal on May 1st.

SPECIAL CONCERT FOR CHILDREN FROM MUSIC WORKERS

The event concluded with the NHKM Music Workers performing songs they prepared for the children. The music, meeting with the enthusiasm of the children and the energy of the participants, once again emphasized the meaning of April 23.