'Osman Kavala's Imprisonment is Turkey's Shame'

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Sema Mortiz is a musician.

"Today is Can Osman Kavala's birthday... All the amazing music videos I've seen on Facebook will be shared for him today... We're twisted ... But our hope is full," she says.

Mortiz does what she says.

Today is the birthday of businessperson and rights defender Osman Kavala.

Accused of "attempting to overthrow the constitutional order and the government," he turns 62 in Silivri Prison. This is his second birthday in prison.

His friend and colleagues thought that Kavala would be released in the previous two hearings. However, it did not happen. Kavala was not released.

The next hearing is again in Silivri on October 8-9. Friends and colleagues of him, those who love him, and everyone who has relations to civil society, science, art, and justice wait for his release.

People who know Kavala a little can not understand the allegations against him. He is allegedly a criminal of "attempting to overthrow the constitutional order and the government". However, Kavala has fought for the construction of justice and equality throughout his life.

He supported young directors in documentaries and films produced at Anadolu Kültür.

He provided support for projects for Syrian refugees.

He supported the rights-focused project, "Everyone is different, everyone is equal".

He supported local journalists.

He pioneered the establishment of alternative media institutions.

He supported the social responsibility projects for young people who gave up hope for this country. He helped them realize their projects.

He brought the youth back into this country. He brought young directors to this country. He brought projects that show different languages can live together in this country.

He supported the languages and cultures of the Hemshins, Laz people and the Kurds. He encouraged different cultures to live in this country.

In summary, Osman Kavala did not live in this country like traditional capital owners. On the contrary, he chose to walk with producers, young people, society, and those who seek rights.

Today is the birthday of businessperson and rights defender Osman Kavala. Happy birthday Osman Kavala. It is a good thing that you existed and paved the way for civil society in this land.

As the author Gaye Boralıoğlu says:

"Today is Osman Kavala's birthday. He is 62 years old and has been in prison for two years. The reason for that is he is conscientious, kind and responsible. Kavala's imprisonment is Turkey's shame." (EMK/VK)