The events organized within the scope of the “International Solidarity Events with Roma” held in Istanbul on October 5-6 have ended. As part of the simultaneous events held in 15 countries across Europe, a screening of the documentary film “Buçuk” depicting the lives and issues of Roma in Turkey was held. A discussion with the film's director and President of the Zero Discrimination Association, Elmas Arus, featured significant discussions and contributions regarding the issues of the Roma.
On Sunday, a musical event held at Tünel Square in Istanbul was vibrant with the participation of representatives from Roma civil society organizations, Roma musicians, florists, and human rights activists. Among the participating institutions and groups were the rap music group Tahribad-ı İsyan, Tarihi Balat Fasıl Roman Group, Association for the Training and Development of Roma Musicians and Artists, Bursa Karacabey Roma Solidarity and Development Association, and Dolapdere Roma Association. Notable participants included Roma activist Sezgin Büyüktuna, Volkan Kümicin, Ana Oprisan, Funda Çelik from Sulukule Volunteers, Nurcan Kaya from Global Dialogue, and Helin Şahin from the Olof Palme Foundation.
In the context of this event, Levent Şensever, Secretary General of the Social Change Association, emphasized the urgency of addressing the Roma's issues and the significant responsibilities that fall on both public officials and the government. He stated that civil society organizations would continue their efforts in this regard.
The event at Tünel ended with the reading of a press statement advocating for the rights of Roma. The joint press statement, read on behalf of the Social Change Association and the Zero Discrimination Association, included the following views: "We call on the government and public institutions to fulfill their obligations regarding the intolerable discrimination in the daily lives of Roma and the negative consequences it causes. The recently announced government initiative package mentions regulations that will improve the situation of Roma. Although such regulations provide improvement regarding discrimination against Roma, a long-term and comprehensive strategy and program are needed to resolve the issue."
Source: Cihan News Agency
