On behalf of Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Atatürk Research and Application Center (EMU-ATAUM), EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe released a message on May 19, Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day. Said message reads as follows:
“May 19, Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day is an official holiday of Republic of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, being annually celebrated with various sports events and ceremonies. On 19 May 1919, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk arrived Samsun with ‘Bandırma’ ship and initiated the War of Independence, in other words the National Struggle, 107 years ago.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk began his work ‘Nutuk’ by writing “On the 19th day of May, 1919, I stepped ashore at Samsun”. The first step taken on 19 May represented not only the beginning of a national liberation movement, but also a historic milestone in which the foundations of a contemporary state based on national sovereignty were established. Alongside the reforms that followed in later years, this development became the initial spark for the emergence of a modern and independent Republic of Türkiye. The torch of independence lit in Samsun quickly spread throughout the country, while the Turkish nation demonstrated extraordinary unity, solidarity, and sacrifice in defense of its freedom. During this period, the determination, patriotism, and sense of responsibility displayed by the youth were viewed as the strongest guarantee for the future of the Republic.
Atatürk referred to May 19 as his own birthday in his speeches and dedicated this special day to the Turkish youth, whom he saw as the guardians and progressive force of the country and the republic. Because for him, the youth are the future and hope of the Turkish nation. The first step of the National Struggle became a special symbol for the youth who would uphold the independence to which Atatürk dedicated himself, and it has been celebrated with enthusiasm every year.
On this special occasion, I remember Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, his comrades in arms and all the martyrs with longing and extend my sincerest blessings to the youth of our country on May 19, Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, wishing a bright future filled with success.”
