The women, who participated in the 8 March International Women’s Day Gathering the Association for Social Development and Aid Mobilization (ASAM) organized, came together at Gaziantep – Rumkale. ASAM has been organizing the traditional women’s gathering since 2008 in Cappadocia, only to change its route to Rumkale for women earthquake survivors following the earthquake disaster that took place.

During the event, which was organized to empower women earthquake survivors whose lives have become quite challenging after the 6 February earthquakes, and to make their voices heard, the importance of solidarity and standing together was highlighted once again.

Women are Stronger Together!

The Traditional Women’s Gathering was organized previously in Cappadocia every year with over 2,000 women coming from various geographies. Through these gatherings, it was aimed to strengthen the solidarity among women and raise awareness. These events, organized based on the theme of “Women are Stronger Together!” were introducing the participants to the unique beauties of Cappadocia and offering them an unforgettable experience.

This year, in solidarity, as in every year, the traditional women’s gathering, being held in Cappadocia since 2008, was organized by ASAM in Rumkale of Gaziantep with woman participants coming from provinces affected the most by the earthquake.

With this event, ASAM strived for women to draw inspiration from one another and find the strength to realize their dreams through the bridges of solidarity formed between them in Rumkale, which left visitors mesmerized with its spectacular landscapes.

The journey began with hundreds of women coming together at Rumkale. The participants first travelled to Halfeti by boats. With a boat trip organized after having lunch at Halfeti, which is one of the authentic culinary destinations of the Southeast, the women were introduced to the region where structures remaining from the ancient period are also found.

The Civilizations Choir of Antakya Performed for Women

Following the gathering in nature, buses took the participants to Gaziantep. The women there continued to celebrate International Women’s Day accompanied by music, which is a universal language that acts as a bridge between civilizations. The Civilizations Choir of Antakya, which whispers in our ears the notion of “Us” rather than “Me” through music, took the stage during the event and gave a music recital that continued until the evening. With its musical pieces performed, each one more beautiful than the other, the Civilizations Choir of Antakya dedicated its messages of peace and brotherhood to all geographies, and appealed to the hearts through its unique melodies.