HÜDA PAR Chairman Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu passionately advocated for the protection and promotion of linguistic diversity during a panel discussion titled “I Choose My Mother Language” organized by his party’s Education Affairs Directorate in Istanbul.

In his speech, Yapıcıoğlu denounced language bans as remnants of Western racism and nation-state ideologies, describing them as divisive impositions that undermine unity and brotherhood.

“Language Ban is Not a National Stance”

Yapıcıoğlu opened his address by quoting verses from the Quran that emphasize the divine wisdom in the diversity of languages and peoples. Referencing Surat al-Rum (30:22) and Surat al-Hujurat (49:13), he highlighted that linguistic and cultural differences are signs of Allah’s creation, stating:

"Islam is the civilisation where peoples of different languages and colours meet. Islamic concepts are the connection points of this civilisation. The languages of non-Muslims living in the same geography with Muslims are also among the signs of Allah. Their languages are also honourable; they should not be banned but protected and allowed to flourish."

Kurdish Language as a Legacy of Islamic Civilisation

In his remarks, Yapıcıoğlu reflected on the historical role of Islamic civilisation in fostering the development of minority languages, including Kurdish. He noted that during the time of Hazrat Umar, Islamic civilisation created opportunities for linguistic growth among various tribes.

"Before Islam, Kurdish lacked written works, but with Islam, it became a literary language. Figures such as Melayê Bateyî, Melayê Cezerî, Feqîyê Teyran, Ahmadê Xanî, and others produced great works in Kurdish. Our madrasas taught Kurdish for centuries, enriching and preserving the language. Mevlid-i Nebi was read in Kurdish in homes, and preachers gave advice in Kurdish,” he stated.

“Language Ban is an Imposition That Disrupts Unity”

Criticizing language bans as a product of Western ideologies, Yapıcıoğlu argued that such prohibitions are tools designed to sow division and weaken societal bonds.

"The language ban is one of the burdens imposed on us by Western civilisation. Those who impose such bans are not our friends; they seek to undermine our unity, strength, and integrity. Far from fostering unity, language bans disrupt our brotherhood and lead to division. To stand by such a ban is not a national stance—it is a betrayal of our unity and values," Yapıcıoğlu said.

He also criticized the lack of political courage to address these bans, saying: "What was imposed yesterday has become an accepted mentality over time, leading to policies that prejudice our brotherhood."

“Freedom of Language Will Strengthen Our Nation”

Calling for constitutional and legal reforms to ensure linguistic freedom, Yapıcıoğlu emphasized that such changes would not weaken Türkiye but would instead strengthen its unity and sense of belonging.

"Freedom of language and linguistic diversity will not take this country backward. On the contrary, it will strengthen our sense of belonging and lead us to salvation. Türkiye cannot afford to continue the imposition of language bans while renewing itself and resisting external pressures. A truly independent country is one that expands freedoms for its people," he stated.

Yapıcıoğlu highlighted the harmonious coexistence of Türkiye’s multilingual society, asserting that the people of Türkiye have no demand for a language ban.

"The saintly people of this country are broad-hearted and faithful. They do not recognize the language ban but suffer from it. Let us come together and put an end to such restrictions. The diversity of our civilisation reinforces our brotherhood. As long as we embraced Islamic civilisation, we grew and prospered; as we moved away from it, we stagnated and weakened."

A Call to Action for Linguistic Freedom

In conclusion, Yapıcıoğlu issued an appeal to policymakers and citizens alike:

"We invite everyone whose heart beats for the good of this country to remove all constitutional and legal obstacles to linguistic freedom. Let us make arrangements that protect and promote our linguistic diversity. Those who heed this call will be remembered with gratitude by future generations for their contribution to the peace and prosperity of this country."

Yapıcıoğlu’s remarks reflect a broader debate in Türkiye about the role of linguistic diversity in fostering national unity and cultural enrichment. His call for linguistic freedom underscores the importance of embracing the country’s rich multicultural heritage as a source of strength in a rapidly changing world. (ILKHA)