The Democratic Alevi Federation (FEDA) and the Democratic Alevi Women’s Union (DAKB) strongly reacted to the state’s attempt to interfere in the Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli Commemoration Events.
In their statement, they emphasized that Alevism is not merely a belief system, but an ancient social stance grounded in harmony with nature, peace, equality, and collective life. The statement underlined that Alevism has historically formed a natural line of resistance against racist, monist, and shari‘a-based ideologies. It was noted that the policies of oppression imposed throughout history continue today in transformed and disguised forms.
Interference is part of the project to create a ‘state-approved Alevi identity’
FEDA and DAKB stated that the 62nd National and 36th International Hacı Bektaş Veli Commemoration Events, planned to take place at the Hacı Bektaş Veli Dervish Lodge, one of the sacred sites of Alevism are being brought under the control of a state institution known as the Alevi-Bektashi Cemevi (Alevi house of worship) Presidency. They emphasized that this intervention is clearly part of a broader project to create a “state-approved Alevi identity.”
The statement included the following remarks: “This approach represents a trustee regime imposed on the Alevi faith. The state first attempts to assimilate Alevism; if that fails, it seeks to bring it under control and if that too fails, it tries to eliminate it altogether. We recognize these policies, we expose them, and we categorically reject them.”
Carriers of assimilation policies
FEDA and DAKB emphasized that those who claim to act as a “bridge” between the state and the Alevi community are, in fact, the enablers and carriers of assimilation policies. They called on all Alevi people and institutions to take a united stance against such interventions.
The statement said: “True peace and democracy can only be achieved by aligning with the truth of our faith, not through spectacles staged under the shadow of the state.” It was also underlined that the commemoration events to be held in Hacıbektaş on 16–17–18 August aim to strengthen the struggle for unity and rights.
FEDA and DAKB reiterated that Alevism is not a domain to be reshaped by the state and stated: “We reject being the state’s Alevis. We will not abandon the path of Truth, nor the cem meydans (ritual gathering spaces). We will not allow assimilation.”
Source: ANF News
