Zazas

Zazas: The Forgotten Community Resurfaces The Zazas are an ethnic minority group that resides in the eastern part of Turkey, predominantly in the provinces of Bingol, Tunceli, and Elazig. They have their distinct language, culture, and traditions. However, their existence remains largely unknown to many, including fellow Turks. This article aims to shed light on the Zazas to raise awareness of their struggles and achievements and to recognize their place in Turkey's cultural diversity. Historically, the Zazas have been challenged with oppression and discrimination. The Turkish government has denied their existence as a distinct ethnic minority and labelled them as Kurds. As a result, the Zazas were subjected to forced assimilation policies, including forced Turkification, confiscation of property, and prohibitions on their language and culture. The government even went as far as forming a special police force to suppress any form of Zaza nationalism. Such policies have led to the Zazas' invisibility in Turkish society, which has undermined their cultural heritage and identity. Despite these hardships, Zazas have managed to preserve their language and culture to this day. Zaza is an Indo-European language with its unique script and oral traditions. Zaza folk music is known for its emotional and poetic lyrics, with the saz, a traditional long-necked lute-like instrument, as the primary instrument. Zaza traditional clothing, food, and customs also have their distinct characteristics. This cultural richness is evident in the annual Zaza festivals and events, held by Zaza communities worldwide, which showcase their traditional dances, costumes, music, and food. In recent years, Zazas have begun to assert their identity and demand recognition from the government. The establishment of the Democratic Society Congress (DTK) and the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) has provided Zazas with a platform to raise their concerns and advocate for their rights. The HDP, in particular, has been vocal in defending Zaza identity and culture and has pushed for the government to recognize Zaza as a distinct ethnic minority. Moreover, Zazas have contributed significantly to art, literature, and science. Ahmet Arif, a prominent Zaza poet, is known for his poems that express the Zaza people's struggle for identity and cultural freedom. Similarly, Zaza novelist Gultan Kisanak's literary works focus on the lives of women in Zaza communities, challenging traditional gender roles and inspiring social change. In science, Bedia Akarsu, a Zaza biologist, has made significant contributions to the field of genetics and has participated in studies exploring the genetic diversity among Anatolian populations. However, despite these advancements, Zazas continue to face challenges. Discrimination against Zazas is prevalent in education, employment, and politics. Zaza children have limited access to education in their mother tongue, and Zaza teachers and scholars face restrictions on their teaching and research. The government's denial of Zaza identity has also led to the exclusion of Zaza voices in the political arena, further marginalizing them from mainstream society. In conclusion, the Zazas are an integral part of Turkey's cultural and ethnic diversity. They have a distinct language, culture, and history that deserves recognition and respect. Despite the challenges they faced over the years, they have managed to preserve their identity and culture. The Turkish government should acknowledge the Zazas as a distinct ethnic minority, grant them rights to use their language, and fully integrate them into society. Only then can the Zazas and other ethnic minorities in Turkey's many communities coexist with peace, prosperity, and cultural richness.