Emine Erdogan Supports Earthquake Victims by Showcasing Pazirik Carpets – Latest News
After the devastating earthquakes that struck on February 6th, women affected by the disasters in Kahramanmaras, Hatay, Adiyaman, and Malatya came together to increase female employment in the region and promote products crafted by women to the world. These women wove four carpets named “Water, Fire, Air, and Earth” as a testament to their resilience and creativity.
Emine Erdogan, the wife of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, participated in the presentation of the “Stitching Life Together” project organized by the Turkish Business Women’s Association (TİKAD). She emphasized the importance of empowering women economically in the aftermath of disasters and highlighted how preserving cultural heritage contributes to societal healing.
Reflecting on the project, Emine Erdogan commended the women who participated, stating, “Each woman who attended the workshops has become a skilled artisan under the guidance of our valuable instructors. I believe that every stitch in these carpets tells a story of hope, resilience, and new beginnings.”
Raziye Başeğmez, a master carpet weaver, shared her experience of establishing workshops in various regions to provide women with new skills and a source of income. She noted that the process not only taught them a craft but also brought psychological relief to their souls.
Elif Oğuz, one of the earthquake survivors, recounted the journey of establishing a cooperative and opening a carpet weaving course to help women cope with the anxiety and uncertainty they faced. Through the act of weaving, they aimed to overcome the stress and challenges of those difficult days.
Nazlı Ceylan Balduk Kurtul, a member of TİKAD, expressed her commitment to reviving the traditional art of carpet and handcraft production among women in the region after witnessing the healing power of creativity following the earthquake.
**Pazirik Carpets Sold for Earthquake Victims**
During the event, carpets designed by artists and woven by women affected by the earthquakes were auctioned off to support the victims. Emine Erdogan actively participated in the auction, symbolically contributing to the cause by weaving a few stitches into the Pazirik Carpets.
Applauding the efforts to sustain carpet weaving through supporting the women’s cooperative in the earthquake-affected areas, Emine Erdogan stated, “I wholeheartedly commend the initiatives to preserve the art of carpet weaving in the earthquake-stricken regions.”
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Gulden Gul, the wife of Istanbul’s Governor Davut Gul, Meltem Demiroren, Vice Chairman of the Demiroren Group, Revna Demiroren, the wife of Yildirim Demiroren, Chairman of the Demiroren Group, as well as numerous artists and businesspeople. The evening concluded with a soul-stirring performance by the Antakya Civilizations Choir.
In a show of solidarity and creativity, these women have woven more than just carpets—they have woven stories of strength, resilience, and hope for a brighter future. The essence of their artistry transcends mere threads, embodying the spirit of a community coming together to rebuild and uplift each other in times of adversity. The legacy of the Pazirik Carpets will forever stand as a testament to the power of women’s voices and the enduring beauty of traditional craftsmanship.
