Upon the request of students, Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Social and Cultural Activities Directorate organized a march against violence towards women with the purpose of raising awareness. The event took place on Friday, 11 October 2024 at 04:00 p.m. Attendees of the event wore black outfits and carried banners saying “Hope must Continue, Dreams should Stay Alive, and Flowers should Never Wilt” and “Another Step Against Violence towards Women: Don't Stay Silent, Walk With Us ”. The march commenced from the EMU Atatürk Square and continued around the EMU campus. EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, EMU Vice Rector for Student Affairs Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, EMU Acting Secretary General Derviş Ekşici, administrative and academic staff members, and students participated in the said event.
“Femicide is a Political Issue”
Delivering a speech on behalf of EMU Social and Cultural Activities Directorate, EMU personnel member Tuba Ertürk said; “The right to life for women and girls is a fundamental human right that cannot be violated. Regrettably, each day, another woman loses her life, and the actions taken to ensure justice are insufficient. To address this serious issue, effective legal measures must be established and enforced. The systems in place for the protection of women should be reinforced, and the Law No. 6284 along with the Istanbul Convention must be fully applied. Those who commit acts of violence should face consequences; punitive measures should serve as a deterrent”.
“Together in this Fight”
In his speech, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated; “Today we are here for an uprising against violence as a whole, particularly against violence directed at women. EMU is instrumental in raising awareness on this critical issue. You have gathered here today to advocate for rights, justice, and the rule of law. We are united in this fight. EMU will persist in taking a leading role in this cause. I hope this action marks not the end, but rather the beginning of a journey towards a future where rights, law, and justice ultimately triumph”.
At the end of the march, banners and posters prepared by the participants were left at the Atatürk Square.
