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Everything begins with a child... A significant transformation that begins with a small, yet powerful, step holds the potential to shape society and the world at large. April 23, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, is the perfect example of such a journey. It represents a story of one where the nation’s courageous struggle for independence and the steps that were taken for the betterment of future generations of children.

April 23 is not just a national holiday in the Republic of Türkiye; it is a symbol of national sovereignty and the promising future that lies ahead for children. The meaningful history of this day was shaped under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, evolved to be celebrated worldwide. But how did this important day come to be and why was it specifically dedicated to children?

The Birth of National Sovereignty

The fall of the Ottoman Empire following its defeat in World War I set off a series of occupations across Anatolia. The future of the nation, including its independence and freedom, was gravely threatened. During this challenging period, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who had landed in Samsun to ignite the nation’s struggle for independence, sparked the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence. This battle for freedom and self-determination found its political foundation in the opening of the Turkish Grand National Assembly on April 23, the year 1920.

April 23 went down in history as the day when the national sovereignty of the Turkish nation was declared. The Turkish nation was now in a position to determine its own destiny and to shape its future. This moment marked a significant turning point, not just for Türkiye but also for the broader movements of independence taking place across the globe. With the opening of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, the will of the people was reflected in the administration and the foundations of Türkiye's modernization process were laid.

Atatürk and His Love for Children

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was a leader known for his love for children and saw them as the future of nations. One of Atatürk’s greatest ideals was that children should receive a good education and grow up as free and happy individuals. He believed that the future could only be shaped by children. For this reason, he dedicated April 23rd National Sovereignty Day to children.

Atatürk determined April 23rd not just as a holiday but as a day of freedom and independence that both children and adults would celebrate with enthusiasm. The great value that he placed on children also reflected how he viewed society and state administration. According to him, a society that is built on solid foundations was only possible if children grew up happy and free.

The World's First Children's Day: April 23 is Gifted to Children

April 23, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, officially became known as “Children’s Day” in the year 1929. This move further highlighted the significance that Atatürk placed on children and their well-being. April 23 became the first and only holiday in the world that was explicitly dedicated to children and grew into an international celebration. On this special day, children from different countries of the world were hosted in Türkiye and messages of peace and friendship were given to the whole world.

Today, April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day is celebrated not only in Türkiye but also in many countries of the world with the participation of children and with great enthusiasm. These celebrations strengthen the bonds between the children of the world and lay the foundations for a world where peace prevails.

Events That Are Held on April 23

Thanks to the shows, festivities and ceremonies that are held every year on April 23, all children experience their own holiday to the fullest. The day, which passes with colorful costumes, dances, songs and poems, offers children the opportunity to express themselves and be entertained. In addition, it is a very meaningful tradition for statesmen to symbolically transfer their seats to children every April 23. This event gives the message that children will one day be involved in decision-making processes and can grow up as leaders of the future.

The excitement and joy that children experience on April 23 is not only a part of them but also of adults. Because April 23 holds the memory of the past as well as the hope of the future.

The Universal Significance of April 23

April 23 has grown to symbolize more than just the celebration of Türkiye’s independence. It has become a global day of remembrance on the significance of children in ensuring a peaceful world. This holiday, initiated by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, has a meaning that also coincides with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The message that all children have equal rights and should grow up in a happy and peaceful world that symbolizes the universal dimension of April 23.

Today, many countries celebrate this holiday as an international children's festival. Children from different countries come together in Türkiye to strengthen their bonds of friendship and brotherhood. Children from different cultures dancing and singing on the same stage is one of the best examples of April 23 contributing to a peaceful world.

The Importance of April 23 in the Modern World

April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day also has great meaning for today's world. In a world that is changing with technology and globalization, it has become more critical than ever for children to receive a good education, develop themselves and grow up as free individuals.

This special day is an important opportunity to draw attention to children's rights and happiness. April 23 is a holiday that honors the past while looking to the future with hope.

As every year, this year, on April 23, we will embrace our children with love and remember how valuable they are. Because everything begins with a child, a child's hopeful look is as meaningful as a nation's struggle for independence.

Remember, April 23 is not only a holiday for children but also for the future!

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