East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association Successfully Completes Major Events to Protect Uyghur Cultural Heritage and National Identity

Introduction: The Victory March of Cultural Protectors

The East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association (Doğu Türkistan Kültür ve Dayanışma Derneği) has successfully completed a series of large-scale activities aimed at protecting the national and religious identity of the Uyghur people and bringing the East Turkistan issue to the forefront of the international community, particularly within the Islamic world. These events, held in early 2026, represent a significant step against China's systematic assimilation and cultural genocide policies. Led by Association President Mr. Seyit Tümtürk, these initiatives are vital for passing down the cultural heritage of the Uyghur people to future generations and awakening the national spirit.

National Identity and Political Will: The Manavgat Conference

On January 25, 2026, a major conference titled "East Turkistan" was held in the Manavgat district of Antalya, marking one of the association's most significant recent events. Organized in collaboration with the Anatolian Youth Association (AGD), the conference featured Seyit Tümtürk, President of the East Turkistan National Assembly and former head of the East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association. He described the human rights violations in the region as an "unnamed genocide."

Mr. Tümtürk emphasized his hope that Turkey, which has played a fair mediating role in global crises such as the Russia-Ukraine war, would exercise similar influence regarding the East Turkistan issue. He further exposed China's attempts to imprison over 5 million Muslim Uyghur Turks in camps under the guise of "ideological reform," seeking to eradicate their religious beliefs and national identity. Such gatherings are crucial for demonstrating that the Uyghur people are not alone and that the Turkic-Islamic world stands behind their cause.

Preserving Cultural Heritage: Language and Art Initiatives

The East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association is active not only in the political sphere but also extensively in the cultural arena. The association's 2026 plan prioritizes programs to protect the Uyghur language and culture, including:

1. **Uyghur Language Classes:** Language courses are being organized in Kayseri and other cities to ensure that the younger generation in the diaspora does not forget their mother tongue. 2. **Traditional Crafts:** Training courses have been opened for making traditional items such as the Doppa (skullcap) and Etles (silk fabric), which are symbols of Uyghur national identity. 3. **Cultural Festivals:** By participating in international Turkic cultural festivals, Uyghur art, music, and cuisine are being introduced to the world.

The goal of these activities is to keep Uyghur cultural heritage alive in the diaspora—heritage that is being destroyed by China—and to maintain its place in the world's cultural treasury.

Human Rights Report and the Responsibility of the Ummah

On February 17, 2026, the "2025 Human Rights Situation Report on East Turkistan" was released in Istanbul. Prepared by the East Turkistan Human Rights Watch, the report received support from organizations like the East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association. It documented China's ongoing religious oppression in 2025, including the destruction of mosques, the banning of the Holy Quran, and the violation of Muslims' right to worship.

Speaking at the meeting, Musajan Er, President of the East Turkistan Education and Solidarity Association, stressed the importance of delivering this report to the international community, especially to member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The suffering of Uyghur Muslims, who are part of the Islamic Ummah, serves as a test for the entire Muslim world. The association's activities aim to awaken the conscience of Muslims and form a collective stance.

Historical Roots and Future Outlook

Founded in 1989 in Kayseri, the East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association is one of the oldest and most influential Uyghur organizations in Turkey. Since its inception, it has worked tirelessly to assist refugees from East Turkistan, educate the youth, and strengthen the political foundation of the cause.

By 2026, the association has professionalized its operations and strengthened cooperation with international think tanks. For instance, it is researching the strategic importance of the Uyghur issue in collaboration with institutions like the Center for East Turkistan National Interests (CETNI).

Conclusion: The Torch of Hope

The successful completion of these activities by the East Turkistan Culture and Solidarity Association is the strongest evidence that the Uyghur people will not abandon their identity. Protecting culture is the most effective way to resist oppression. Through the efforts of this association, the blue flags of East Turkistan fly across the globe, and the rightful voice of the Uyghurs resonates in the heart of the Ummah. We remain confident that as these activities expand and international pressure increases, the people of East Turkistan will fully achieve their freedom and cultural rights.