By Tsering Passang | GATPM | 19th November 2024
On Saturday, 16th November 2024, the UK Uyghur Community commemorated the declaration of East Turkistan’s independence in 1933 and 1944 with a meaningful event held at Uyghur School in North London. This annual gathering united community members and supporters to reflect on their rich history, celebrate cultural heritage, and inspire the younger generation with a message of resilience and hope.
The event commenced at 1:30 PM, offering a thoughtfully curated programme of educational and cultural activities, ensuring attendees – especially children – gained a deeper appreciation of their heritage.
Purpose and Significance of the Event
The celebration emphasised the importance of remembering the Republic of East Turkistan’s brief yet significant independence, symbolising a beacon of hope for Uyghurs striving for freedom under China’s ongoing occupation. This year’s theme focused on educating children about the sacrifices and achievements of their ancestors, fostering pride and a sense of responsibility to preserve their identity.
Dilnaz Kerim, a member of the UK Uyghur Community’s Youth Committee, eloquently expressed the essence of the occasion:
“We celebrate this day to remember our ancestors and their contributions that have shaped our identity. This is also a day of hope for us, as we remind ourselves of the great things our ancestors did and encourage ourselves to stay strong and continue our fight for our people’s freedom.”
Event Highlights
The program was meticulously designed to engage and inspire children, showcasing the legacy of Uyghur resilience and cultural pride. Key highlights included:
- National Anthem: A unifying opening that honoured the spirit of East Turkistan.
- Poetry Recitations: Heartfelt performances by children, including “The Struggle Will Not Die,” “Greetings to My Homeland,” and “My Mother School,” celebrating the enduring fight for freedom and cultural roots.
- Cultural Dances: Traditional performances like the Kök Böre (Blue Wolf) dance by boys and the Meshrep dance by girls, highlighting Uyghur vibrancy.
- Violin Performance: A poignant rendition of Bella Ciao by a young girl, symbolising the universal spirit of resistance.
- History Session: An engaging storytelling segment that recounted the historical milestones of the Republic of East Turkistan.
A Day Dedicated to the Future
This year’s event was especially dedicated to children, reinforcing the importance of understanding Uyghur history and taking pride in their cultural identity. Recognising the vital role of youth in sustaining their heritage, the event aimed to equip them with the knowledge and inspiration needed to carry forward their ancestors’ legacy.
Dilnaz Kerim aptly summarised the day’s significance:
“This day is for the kids, to remind them how great our ancestors were. We learn from their courage and keep thriving so that the history of the Uyghurs does not fade away.”
The gathering was further enriched by the presence of Friends of Uyghurs, reflecting a shared solidarity and hope for a future where Uyghurs can reclaim their freedom and dignity.
Conclusion
The Remembering the Republic of East Turkistan event was a profound occasion of reflection and hope, underscoring the importance of cultural preservation, education, and unity. By engaging the younger generation, the UK Uyghur Community is ensuring that their rich heritage and aspirations are not only remembered but also serve as a source of inspiration for the future.
The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities extends its gratitude to Dilnaz Kerim of the UK Uyghur Community for her invaluable input in the preparation of this report.
Useful Links
(Photos from the celebration – Credit: Dilnaz Kerim)
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 