A Life Dedicated to the Homeland: Mustafa Kırımoğlu

In his speech, YTB President Abdulhadi Turus stated that loyalty to historical figures should be shown while they are still alive, describing it as a moral and conscientious responsibility. Turus said, “History writes its heroes; however, it is our duty to show them loyalty while they are living.”

​Emphasizing that the documentary-style work titled A Life Dedicated to the Homeland, which covers the struggle of Mustafa Abdülcemil Kırımoğlu, was introduced with the participation of Kırımoğlu himself, Turus stressed that the study is not just a book but also a powerful work of memory. "We introduced our work, which addresses the struggle of Mustafa Abdülcemil Kırımoğlu—the national leader of the Crimean Tatar people and a symbol of honorable resistance—with Mustafa Ağa himself as a witness," he said.

​Turus noted that the program was attended by Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Serdar Çam, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Ankara Nariman Celal, and numerous representatives from civil society organizations. Thanking all stakeholders who contributed, Turus evaluated the work by saying, "This book, which keeps alive the memory of the cause for justice and liberty embodied in Mustafa Ağa, is a legacy of justice left not only for today but for the future."

​Turus further stated that YTB acts with the awareness of the responsibility imposed by history and conscience, noting that they will continue to keep historical memory alive, support civil society, and produce cultural and social projects for the youth.

​Dr. Taner Zorbay, the editor of the book, provided information about the preparation process, stating that the book consists of writings by individuals who lived in Crimea and experienced the difficulties of the process firsthand. Zorbay said, "We prepared this work with the writings of those who lived in Crimea and endured the main hardships there. I thank everyone who contributed and worked hard at YTB."

​Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Serdar Çam drew attention to Mustafa Kırımoğlu’s leadership qualities. Stating that Kırımoğlu is a strong role model through his determination, courage, and commitment to national and spiritual values, Çam said, "When I think of Mustafa Kırımoğlu, determination and courage come to mind. I see him as a movement leader who knows and protects his national and spiritual values and focuses powerfully on his goal."

​Çam stated that he sees the "noble stance" (klas duruş), which is often missed today, in the personality of Mustafa Kırımoğlu, emphasizing that one of the fundamental characteristics of true political movements is "shaja'at" (valiance). Defining shaja'at as "intelligent courage," Çam said, "His struggle is not about killing or dying; it is about living and letting others live."

​Speaking at the program, the national leader of the Crimean Tatar people, Mustafa Abdülcemil Kırımoğlu, expressed his satisfaction with the work carried out by YTB and thanked everyone who contributed to the program, especially the book. Kırımoğlu said, "YTB’s work is extremely orderly. I am very pleased with the efforts. May God bless everyone who contributed."

​Kırımoğlu also touched upon the historical tragedy experienced by the Crimean Tatar people, stating that they suffered great losses during the 1944 deportation. Kırımoğlu said, "We lost forty-six percent  of our people during the 1944 deportation and genocide. Those who remained struggled for nearly half a century to return to their homeland."

​The program concluded with a presentation of gifts and a group photo session.