Istanbul: monument opening is another step towards recognition of Circassian genocide

The Circassian Diaspora of Turkey has opened a monument in Istanbul dedicated to the genocide and expulsion of Circassians from their historical homeland. According to the initiators, the opening of the monument has to do with the Diaspora's efforts to achieve recognition of the Circassian genocide.

The opening ceremony was held on October 10 in the Istanbul's Beylikduzu District.

The author of the monument is Keramettin Denmez; the monument was selected from eight different projects, Omer Chotok, President of the Circassian Cultural House, told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent on October 23.

"There were two main reasons for the memorial project. Firstly, not only Circassians, but also other nationals living in Turkey should know and remember about Circassian genocide and expulsion. Secondly, Circassians should never forget about their genocide and exile," Mr Chotok believes.

The opening of the monument in Istanbul is a contribution to spreading the truth about the genocide, Omer Chotok has added, concluding: "Istanbul is one of the most important destinations for the Circassians who were exiled to the Ottoman Empire. One of the reasons why the monument was built in Istanbul is to narrate the story about the genocide of Circassians and their expulsion to the whole world. We think when the time comes, memorial projects will be realized in Northern Caucasus; and it is very important for these ideas to mature."

This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on October 24, 2021 at 04:21 am MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.