April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day

🇹🇷 The Historical Significance of April 23

On April 23, 1920, the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (TBMM) was opened in Ankara. This was a crucial step toward the Turkish people determining their own future. Until then, the country had faced numerous challenges, and the people had decided to establish their own governance. That is why April 23 is celebrated in Türkiye as the National Sovereignty Day.

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👧🧒 The Gift of April 23 to Children

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, deeply loved children. He believed that children were the future of any nation. Therefore, he declared April 23 not only as the day of the nation’s governance but also as the holiday of all children in the world. In this way, children feel special and are shown love and respect.

🎈 What Is Done During the Holiday?

• School performances: Children recite poems, sing songs, and perform plays.
• Official ceremonies: Municipal and state officials hold formal celebrations. Flags are raised and national anthems are sung.
• Children on stage: In some cities, selected children represent the administration of their city or country for the entire day.
• International celebrations: Children from different countries around the world are hosted in Türkiye, where they introduce the cultures of their own nations.

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🌍 A Unique Holiday Around the World

April 23 is the only children’s holiday celebrated exclusively in Türkiye. Atatürk’s idea reflects the value he placed on children and his desire for them to be ambassadors of peace. For this reason, Türkiye has gifted the children’s holiday to children worldwide.

📜 Atatürk and April 23

Atatürk explained the gift of April 23 to children as follows:

“Great children of great Türkiye! This holiday is bestowed upon you. So that the children of the world may celebrate April 23 together with you...”

These words clearly express the importance he attached to children.

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❤️ Why Is April 23 Important?

• It draws attention to children’s rights.
• It celebrates their happiness and healthy growth.
• It conveys a message of peace, friendship, and brotherhood.
• It symbolizes our nation’s freedom and the people’s right to self-governance.

🎉 Suggestions for Children

• You can hang the Turkish flag on the morning of the holiday.
• You can recite poems or sing songs at school or at home.
• You can play games with your friends to enjoy the day.
• You can discuss with your family the value Atatürk placed on children.