As the original texts are written in Turkish, English translation is provided for non-Turkish readers. The author apologizes in advance for any and all possible changes and losses in meaning due to translation.
We are all deeply disturbed and sad by the news of the massacre in the city of Hanau in Germany. German authorities announced that the attack organized by a Neo-Nazi took the lives of 10 people, 5 being Turkish citizens. Once again, we witnessed this unacceptable and tragic incident revealing how crucial and consequential individual and social common senses are, and how unacceptable and unjustifiable racism is.
As distinct individuals, we all belong to the community of “humanity”, sharing this world. We all stand and engage in various positions, work in diverse areas and try to add value to life and others. This diversity means, none of us is ever superior or inferior to others.
Through this diversity, we enrich our planet and contribute to one another. Therefore, regardless of our ethnical backgrounds, religions, languages, or political views, we have humanitarian responsibilities to each other. After the horrible massacre, all political leaders, including the German President, and most importantly the people of Hanau showed great solidarity, which has given a very meaningful message. I strongly believe that German authorities will take necessary steps to prevent the social disease of racism. As a person who knows both countries and nations quite well, I also believe that peace, solidarity and coexistence of people are a lot stronger than racism.
In his book “Time for Outrage!” Stéphane Hessel defends reacting to such incidents, rather than being indifferent: “Get annoyed; do not keep silent against those infecting our world.” Shaken by the tragic massacre, I offer my deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in Hanau.
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