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

Operating in Münster, Germany, Odak International Cultural Center organized a "Hello Summer Picnic" for its members and supporters on the shores of Lake Aasee. The event, which brought together participants from various nations, took place in an atmosphere of cultural exchange, 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 were highlighted throughout the event.

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

Odak International Cultural Center President Hıdır Ateş, who delivered the opening speech of the program, evaluated the association's work, stating that they had undertaken 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 an intense year. During this period, we closely followed social and political developments in Germany and informed our members, and we also carefully monitored the agenda in Turkey. Our association, with its internationalist identity and progressive stance, will continue to address 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 integration of society, adding:

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

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

In his speech, Ateş also mentioned that they have occasionally been the target of criticism due to their solidarity activities with the Palestinian people, but stated 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 highly praised

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

Following the concert, 'halay' folk 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

As part 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 Odak International Cultural Center.

Participants expressed their satisfaction with the activities carried out by the association to date, and made 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 reuniting next year.

Mehmet Tanlı / MÜNSTER

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