Odak International Cultural Center's 'Hello Summer Picnic' in Münster

Odak International Cultural Center, which continues its activities in Münster, Germany, organized a "Hello Summer Picnic" for its members and supporters on the shores of Lake Aasee. The event, which brought together participants from different nations, took place in an atmosphere of cultural sharing, solidarity, and friendship.

Participants brought different cultures together by sharing dishes unique to their own countries at communal tables, while messages of unity and togetherness came to the forefront throughout the event.

Hıdır Ateş: "We will continue to champion society's problems"

Hıdır Ateş, President of Odak International Cultural Center, delivered the opening speech of the program, evaluating the association's work by stating that they had carried out many social, cultural, and political activities in the past period.

Ateş used the following expressions in his speech:

"We are leaving behind the first half of a busy year. During this period, we kept our members informed by closely following social and political developments in Germany, and we also carefully monitored the agenda in Turkey. Our association, with its internationalist identity and progressive stance, will continue to champion the problems of our people and society."

Emphasizing that life is not solely about politics, Ateş stated that social gatherings make significant contributions to the cohesion of society, adding:

"People coming together, eating together, conversing, dancing, and performing the halay dance are of great importance to us. We will continue to keep these human values alive."

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"We will not give up on democracy, human rights, and peace"

Ateş also stated in his speech that they have sometimes been the target of criticism due to their solidarity activities with the Palestinian people, adding that this situation would not affect their work.

Ateş said, "We believe in democracy, human rights, and peaceful coexistence. We will continue our fight against discrimination and racism. Attempts to target us will not stop our work."

At the end of his speech, Ateş extended his best wishes to those going on summer vacation and thanked all participants.

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Mini concert received great acclaim

The picnic program continued with a mini concert featuring Can on clarinet and Emre on guitar. The duo, performing beloved works of Turkish music, received great applause from the participants.

After the concert, halay dances were performed to the accompaniment of the Internationale and songs and folk songs sung in different languages. Throughout the day, colorful scenes unfolded with music, dance, and conversations.

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Suggestions from participants regarding Odak's future

Within the scope of the event, President Hıdır Ateş invited participants who wished to speak to the microphone and listened to their views and suggestions regarding the work of the Odak International Cultural Center.

Participants expressed their satisfaction with the activities carried out by the association to date and offered suggestions for the continuation and increase of cultural and social events.

The "Hello Summer Picnic," which took place in a sincere atmosphere, concluded with the hope of meeting again next year.

Mehmet Tanlı / MÜNSTER

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