Saturday Mothers awarded Human Rights, Peace and Democracy award

The Human Rights, Peace and Democracy Award organized by Istanbul Medical Chamber was given to the Saturday Mothers.

The Human Rights, Peace and Democracy Award assigned by the Istanbul Medical Chamber (ITO) every year in the memory of dentist Sevinç Özgüner, was this year given to the Saturday Mothers. Many physicians and a large number of people joined the award ceremony in Cağaloğlu.

In her speech the Human Rights Commission of the Istanbul Medical Chamber co-chair Ayse Saral, said that it is important to meet with the Saturday Mothers. Saral told the story of the Saturday Mothers: “Galatasaray Square, which is a historical place, once again became historic thanks to the Saturday Mothers. One of the most fundamental elements for building justice is the reconstruction of memory.”

Following a video on the life of the dentist Sevinç Özgüner, TTB Central Council Member Dr. Samet Mengüç took the floor. Istanbul Medical Chamber Secretary General Osman Ozturk talked about Sevinç Özgüner murder. Özgüner disappeared and died while in custody of state forces. "The perpetrator of all these murders were and are known,” said Ozturk adding “the Saturday Mothers are reclaiming the memories of those we lost and are fighting for justice and the truth.”

Jiyan Tosun who lost her father Fehmi Tosun while in custody spoke on behalf of the Saturday Mothers. “We would like to thank the Turkish Medical Association for honoring us with the human rights, peace and democracy award in the name of Sevinç Özgüner who has many meanings for us.”

Tosun added: “Sevinç Özgüner was the ambassador of hope and peace, as well as of those who disappeared while in custody. Since Antigone, justice has no voice. All we need is our hope. Conscience will win, we will win.”

Gençay Gürsoy gave the award to the Saturday Mothers on behalf of  the TTB.