Spring, Women, and the Homeland: A Bright Day in Alanya That Remains in Memory

Spring, Women, and the Homeland: A Bright Day in Alanya That Remains in Memory On the eve of International Women’s Day, I would like to return in my memories to the year 2018 — to the beautiful sunny city of Alanya, Turkey. One could speak endlessly about Alanya: about its beauty, its kind and welcoming people, the wonderful weather, the magnificent sea, and the unique atmosphere of warmth and hospitality that can be felt everywhere. But today I would like to talk about an event that has remained especially vivid in my memory — an international exhibition organized by the local municipality on the eve of the March 8 celebration. Representatives of many countries were invited to this exhibition to share the cultural heritage of their nations. We had the honor of presenting Turkmenistan. Several citizens of Turkmenistan living in Alanya gathered together. We brought from our homes everything connected with the traditional cultural life of the Turkmen people: national items, elements of traditional handicrafts, and symbols of our culture. Each of us contributed what we could to show the beauty and uniqueness of our homeland. The exhibition was very well organized. Representatives of many different countries took part in it. Each participant shared their country’s traditions with the residents of Alanya, spoke about their homeland, and introduced guests to their history and national culture. The atmosphere was incredibly friendly. Journalists were present, conversations were heard in many languages, people met one another, exchanged stories, and took photographs together. It was a true celebration of cultural diversity and mutual respect. The mayor of the city, the young and energetic Murat Yücel, also attended the event. He walked around the entire exhibition and approached every stand. It was not just a formal visit for protocol — he was genuinely interested in the cultures presented. He spoke with participants, asked questions, and took photos with guests. When he came to our stand, we talked about Turkmenistan, about our culture and traditions. Together with the mayor, we gave a short interview to the press. This day still lives in my memory. It is a very special feeling when you have the opportunity to tell the world about your country, its history, its culture, and about what is truly dear and valuable to you — your homeland. On the eve of International Women’s Day, I would like to congratulate all our dear women. I wish each of you strength, hope, and faith in a better future. And may the day come — in the very near future — when we will be able to live in our wonderful country with достойный earnings, alongside our children and loved ones, on the native lands that rightfully belong to our people. Happy upcoming holiday to all of you! With respect, Diana Dadasheva Representative of the Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ” / Turkmenistan 🌷