“Songs Sung for the Oppressed” – Song Contest 2023

On January 15, 2024, Advocates of Silenced Turkey (AST) held its second song contest: “Songs Sung for the Oppressed – 2023” 

This contest was dedicated to Yusuf Kerim Sayın, a 6-year-old child battling bone cancer. His mother, Gülten Sayın, was imprisoned as part of the investigations against the Gülen movement; a video of little Yusuf asking for his mother gained wide attention on social media. While undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Yusuf Kerim was only able to reunite with his mother after legal changes allowed it. His illness progressed, and he passed away on October 2, 2023. 

The contest aimed to express human rights violations through the universal language of music. Participants could submit up to three original songs, and the top three winners were chosen by public vote. 

Awards:
1st Place – $3,000
2nd Place – $2,000
3rd Place – $1,000

Through music, voices of the oppressed were carried beyond borders, reminding us all of the power of art in the fight for justice.