THE REVITALISATION PROCESS OF THE CALF FESTIVAL (DANA BAYRAMi) OF AFRO-TURKS IN IZMIR

Abstract

This paper focuses on an annual festival of the African Turkish people whose existence is not widely known in Turkey. Most of the Afro-Turks live in the Aegean region and Mediterranean coast of Turkey. After the foundation of the African Culture Solidarity and Cooperation Association (2006), the Calf Festival has tried to be revitalised after a long break. Based on texts, oral history interviews, and fieldwork (started in 2009), this research accompanies the initial stages of revitalisation processes of an old tradition within new circumstances. Research on the history and traditions, acquainted with different components of African culture with emphasis on dance, music, food, accessory and so on are considered very important at this stage. Despite existing complications and challenges, it seems to be a critical step toward ending the invisibility of the Afro-Turks.