MÊRDÎN – Author Ahmet Çelik emphasized that in order for the Kurdish language to become a center of attraction for future generation, it must be granted legal status. He stressed that to avoid setbacks in the ongoing process toward a solution, Kurdish must be officially recognized.
As part of the May 15 Kurdish Language Day, events are being held under the theme "Status for Kurdish, Education in the Mother Language". These efforts often highlight how recognizing Kurdish and enabling mother tongue education could positively impact the broader Kurdish question. Ahmet Çelik, on of the organizers in Mêrdîn (Mardin), warned that failing to resolve the language issue could hinder progress.
Çelik pointed out that the Kurdish people have reserved their language for centuries despite pressure and assimilation policies, and that this effort must now grow even stronger.
KURDISH FOR 364 DAYS
Çelik stated that limiting the use of Kurdish to just Language Day is a mistake. Çelik said,: “Every day, everywhere, should be Kurdish. We must protect our language.”
Referring to the first Latin-script issue of Hawar magazine on May 15 as a milestone, he honored prominent Kurdish intellectuals like Mîr Celadet, Kamîran Êlî, and Seydayê Cegerxwîn. He likened the need to protect the Kurdish language to how one protects a child or cares for the sick and said: “If we lose our language, we lose our future.”
'CONCRETE STEPS MUST BE TAKEN TO EMBRACE KURDISH'
Çelik noted that Kurdish-related efforts in Mêrdîn have long relied on individuals and lacked institutional support, despite the region’s multilingual character and Kurdish-speaking majority. He said Kurdish must be used not only in speech but in writing, education, commerce, and all areas of life. With its natural potential and literary richness, Mêrdîn can play a central role—but authors, politicians, and local governments must help fill the gaps.
KURDISH IN ALL ASPECTS OF LIFE
Çelik argued that for Kurdish to be appealing to new generations, it must have official status.
“Without recognition as an official and educational language, Kurdish will not become a focal point,” he said ans stressed the example of graduates from Artuklu University’s Kurdish program struggling to find employment, he underlined the urgency of addressing the issue.
Calling status recognition the most vital component Çelik continued: “This cannot be achieved with elective classes alone. Like Turkish, Kurdish must be institutionalized from kindergarten to university and in commerce. Once we gain status, our struggle will continue—but toward making Kurdish a global language.”
MA / Ahmet Kanbal