They marched for those who lost their lives in the Circassian Genocide

Dozens of citizens walked for the Circassians who lost their lives in the Circassian Genocide at a commemoration event organized by the Kayseri Caucasian Association. President of the Kayseri Caucasian Association, Nurşah Özyürek, stated, ‘The Circassian Genocide should be recognized by all countries around the world, regardless of political and strategic concerns.’

The walk, organized on Mustafa Kemal Paşa Boulevard in the Kocasinan district, was attended by the President of the Kayseri Caucasian Association, Nurşah Özyürek, association members, and numerous citizens. Before the walk, President of the Kayseri Caucasian Association, Nurşah Özyürek, gave a speech, highlighting the resistance of the Circassians against the invasion of Tsarist Russia that began in the 18th century. He mentioned the struggles of the Circassians for over a century to protect their freedom and homeland against Russian occupation, resulting in their displacement and loss. He emphasized that May 21, 1864, marked the symbol of Genocide and Exile for the Circassian people.

Addressing the need for global recognition of the Circassian Genocide, Özyürek stated that the systematic policies over 160 years had reduced the Circassians to a minority status, endangering their unique language and culture. He pointed out the challenges faced by Circassians due to centralizing trends in Russia, such as diminishing language education, restricted usage of the Circassian language, and limitations on democratic rights.

Following the speech, dozens of citizens marched chanting slogans.