14/07/2025 | Writer: Kaos GL
At the ceremony held in Devrim Stadium, students marched while unfurling a giant LGBTI+ flag, chanting the slogan, “Where are you, my love? I’m here, my love!”
Photo: METU Emek Gençliği
According to a report published on Sendika.org, this year’s METU Graduation Ceremony took place on Sunday, July 13, at Devrim Stadium. Students marched with banners referencing hate-driven policies, appointed (trustee) rectors, arrests, censorship, and the annulment of Ekrem İmamoğlu’s diploma.
Students also unfurled a giant LGBTI+ flag in the stadium to draw attention to the oppression and hate policies targeting LGBTI+ people. Marching with the slogan “Where are you, my love? I’m here, my love!”, the students were met with applause from the audience in the stands. They also did not forget women who were subjected to sexual harassment and assault in police custody. The issue of femicides was also highlighted. One of the banners read:
"There's no woman left alive,
No worker left standing,
No queer left free.
From this wreckage, a revolution will be born.
Your names will be carved into the gravestones."
Students also drew attention to police violence during protests by creating a symbolic water cannon vehicle (TOMA) for the ceremony. In response to arbitrary arrests, the annulment of İmamoğlu’s diploma, and all forms of injustice, students declared, “We are here!” Audience in the stands showed their support by chanting, “Rights, law, justice!”
Additionally, the speech of appointed (trustee) rector Ahmet Yozgatlıgil was drowned out by boos. As he attempted to continue his speech, whistling and booing from the audience went on for several minutes.
Tags: human rights, women, life, education
