In a bid to preserve the Kurdish language amid concerns over the government’s assimilation policies, approximately 350 participants have enrolled in Kurdish language courses organised by the Mezopotamya Language and Culture Research Association (MED-DER) in Kurdish-majority Diyarbakır (Amed).
The courses, which commenced on 11 July, are providing education in both the Kurmancî and Kirmanckî dialects to children and adults in ten in-person and online classes.
Participants in the courses emphasise the importance of preserving the Kurdish language, pointing out the impact of assimilation policies that have relegated the language to a secondary status. They stress the need for education in the native language to ensure its survival.
One participant said, “I’m sure there is no one else in the world who attends a course for their mother tongue except us Kurds. I believe it’s time to focus on my Kurdish heritage and language.” This sentiment is echoed by many others who feel a sense of urgency to reconnect with their linguistic roots.
Another student stated, “For someone who is a Kurd but does not receive education in Kurdish or speak the language, it becomes a significant problem. That’s why I wanted to start before it’s too late.” This highlights the growing concern among the Kurdish community about the potential loss of their language due to the assimilation policies of the government.
The courses aim to address gaps in language skills among the Kurdish community. One participant said, “I can speak Kurdish, but there are many gaps in my language skills. That’s why I’ve decided to attend this course, to compensate for these shortcomings.”
The issue of language preservation is particularly significant in the context of Turkey’s policies towards the Kurdish language. As one participant noted, “Assimilation policies have been forced on the Kurdish language for years. That’s why many of us have forgotten our language today.”
As the Kurdish community’s commitment to preserving their linguistic heritage grows, these courses represent a critical step towards safeguarding the Kurdish language and culture and highlight the importance of education in counteracting the effects of assimilation policies.
