They walked in silence on the 2nd anniversary of the earthquake! Hearts united, tears did not stop

The earthquakes that occurred on February 6, 2023, centered in Kahramanmaraş, caused massive destruction in southern Turkey and led to the loss of thousands of lives, particularly in the province of Hatay.

On the 2nd anniversary of the earthquake, the pain and losses experienced in Hatay were commemorated once again.

A DEEP SILENCE AT THE MOMENT TIME STOOD STILL

The silent march held at 04:17 began with a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in the city.

Commemoration events in Hatay began with citizens gathering at Vali Ürgen Park and starting a silent march. Hatay Governor Mustafa Masatlı, Metropolitan Mayor Mehmet Öntürk, city protocol, and numerous earthquake survivors met there and walked along Atatürk Street.

The march ended in front of the Atatürk Monument in Cumhuriyet Square.

During the march, a deep silence prevailed at 04:17, the exact time the disaster struck. The moment of silence held in memory of the thousands of citizens lost in Hatay took place amidst the tearful eyes of the crowd.

Following the moment of silence, the national anthem, the symbol of Turkey's struggle for independence, was sung, leading to emotional moments.

PRAYERS WERE OFFERED

Following the moment of silence, on this special day where people of different religious beliefs in Hatay came together, prayers were offered by representatives of the three Abrahamic religions. Participants wished for God's mercy upon those who lost their lives due to the earthquake and patience for their relatives.

CARNATIONS WERE LAID

After the prayers and the moment of silence, the people of Hatay walked toward the Asi River and laid carnations in memory of those who lost their lives in the earthquake.

This symbolic act, in addition to commemorating the losses, also symbolized the determination of the people of Hatay to stand back up.

THE RECONSTRUCTION OF HATAY

Today, as Hatay tries to erase the traces of the earthquake, both local governments and citizens are working together to continue efforts to rebuild the city.

The February 6 commemoration symbolizes the people of Hatay stepping into the future together, supporting one another, and becoming stronger.

News Source: 12punto