The Purple Color of Kurdish Politics: Women Politicians Write from Prison

Gültan Kışanak, a Kurdish journalist and former MP, was elected co-mayor of Diyarbakır in 2014 and imprisoned two years later. She wrote about her experiences and collected accounts from other Kurdish women politicians incarcerated on political grounds. "The Purple Color of Kurdish Politics" is a collection of prison writings from over 20 Kurdish women politicians, reflecting on their struggles against patriarchy and anti-Kurdish repression in Turkey. They discuss radical feminist principles and practices, and how Turkey's anti-capitalist and socialist movements informed their political stances and practices. The book aims to inspire women to engage in collective resistance, even in the most unjust conditions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: Pluto Press

Gültan Kışanak, a Kurdish journalist and former Member of Parliament, was elected as the co-mayor of Diyarbakır in 2014. However, her remarkable journey took a drastic turn two years later when the Turkish state arrested and imprisoned her. Despite the uniqueness of her story, Gültan's experience is not isolated. Numerous Kurdish women, including co-chairs, co-mayors, and Members of Parliament, have faced similar persecution and incarceration in Turkey on political grounds.

The Purple Color of Kurdish Politics is a captivating collection of prison writings from over 20 Kurdish women politicians. These women candidly reflect on their personal and collective battles against patriarchy and anti-Kurdish repression in Turkey. They delve into the radical feminist principles and practices that shaped their political endeavors, transforming the political structures and state offices they occupied. They explore the successes and challenges of their political actions, drawing insights from Turkey's anti-capitalist and socialist movements.

Through their narratives, these Kurdish women demonstrate an unwavering political determination and a steadfast refusal to be silenced, even in the confines of prison. The book serves as a powerful testament to their resilience and courage, inspiring women living under unjust conditions to engage in collective resistance. It serves as a reminder that political oppression and marginalization cannot suppress the voices of those who seek equality and justice.

The Purple Color of Kurdish Politics offers a profound exploration of the experiences and struggles of Kurdish women in Turkey, shedding light on their remarkable contributions to the political landscape. It serves as a catalyst for further dialogue and understanding, promoting a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 215 x 139 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745347080