Ep. #13: Gezi Park Explained

28th May 2013 was the first day of what became a series of nationwide protests across Turkey. People from all kinds of backgrounds united to fight for a cause. The demands? The resignation of the corrupt, fascist, and authoritarian government, the removal of Erdogan from office, the preservation of green public spaces, an end to gentrification and taking clear steps to stop the increase in poverty. Instead of listening to their demands, Erdogan condemned the protestors and labelled them as terrorists and looters. Peaceful protesters were met with tear gas, rubber bullets, and water canons. OccupyGezi marked a political tipping point and catalysed the AKP's and Erdogan's power grip on the country. 7 years after the protests, the consequences of our loss still haunt the nation.