04/09/2025 | Writer: Kaos GL
The IHD Ankara Branch LGBTI+ Commission emphasized during their pride vigil held for International Day of Peace on September 1 that peace is not possible without equality and freedom. Yıldız Tar from Kaos GL stated, “We LGBTI+ people have been part of the struggle for peace throughout history, and we will continue to be.”
The Human Rights Association (IHD) Ankara Branch LGBTI+ Commission held the seventh of its monthly pride vigils at the association’s building on September 1, International Day of Peace. The focus of this month’s vigil was peace.
The vigil was attended by Yıldız Tar, Editor-in-Chief of Kaos GL, who is among the individuals proposed by the DEM Party to be heard in the Parliamentary Commission on Democracy, Fraternity, and National Unity established in the Turkish Grand National Assembly for the peace process.
In its statement, the Commission emphasized that September 1 is not only a call for a world without war, but also for a life in which justice, equality, and freedom prevail. The statement noted, “As LGBTI+ people living in Turkey, we observe this day not merely as a wish, but as part of our struggle.”
“Peace is incomplete without LGBTI+ people”
The Commission emphasized that peace can only be achieved not through the silencing of weapons alone, but through the recognition of social equality and rights:
“Today in Turkey, LGBTI+ people face discrimination, are targeted, their right to life is threatened, and they are systematically excluded. Under these conditions, achieving peace is impossible. If we want peace, we must end oppression and hatred against LGBTI+ people, Kurds, women, migrants, and different ethnic and religious groups.”
The statement concluded with the words: “Peace is for everyone. Peace is incomplete without LGBTI+ people. Peace is not just silence; it is equality, justice, and the will to live together!”
Yıldız Tar: “We will continue to be a part of the struggle for peace”
Following the statement, Yıldız Tar also gave a speech. Tar said, “Peace is not just a moment when weapons are silent; it represents a life in which justice, equality, and freedom are guaranteed for everyone.”
Recalling human rights violations and societal traumas, from Roboski to the October 10 Ankara Massacre, and from Ülker Street to the attempted lynching of trans women in Esat-Eryaman, Tar continued:
“We LGBTI+ people have been part of the struggle for peace throughout history, and we will continue to be. Because peace can only exist in a society where everyone can live without fear and with equal rights.”
After the speech, human rights defenders placed white scarves symbolizing peace on the table.
Tags: human rights, life, trans, lgbti
