Sometimes a word does not only target a person; it also wounds an identity, a belief, a social memory. This is precisely why Mine G. Kırıkkanat's statement “Kılıçdaroğlu is the remnant of a sword” is not an ordinary political criticism. This statement is not only directed at Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, but it also touches and targets a community that has historically suffered, namely Alevis.
Politics exists through criticism; ideas clash, people debate. But criticism has a morality, a limit. Sentences based on beliefs, identities and historical traumas are not criticism; they are another form of discrimination and humiliation. Expressions such as “sword residue” evoke the dark pages of this land. Every sentence formed without knowing what this connotation corresponds to is the product of either ignorance or conscious discrimination.
What is more striking is the fact that some people who define themselves as “democrats”, “libertarians” or “progressives” can use this language. It is not only a contradiction, but also a serious ethical bankruptcy for those who came to certain positions by relying on the votes, support and presence of Alevis for years to resort to such a discourse today. Democracy manifests itself not only in the ballot box but also in language, attitude and stance. The claim of “democracy” of those who fail this test remains an empty slogan.
Another remarkable point is the attitude of Cumhuriyet newspaper towards this discourse. Silence is sometimes the loudest voice. Ignoring the discriminatory language used by an author means giving him indirect approval. The press is obliged not only to report news but also to maintain an ethical line. To remain silent when this line is violated is to be part of the violation.
Alevis are not the “material” of this country. They are not a community to be used as a tool for political calculations or polemics. We are talking about a people who have existed in these lands for centuries, who have paid the price, and who are trying to protect their culture and faith. Every sentence formed without recognizing this reality diminishes its owner.
If criticism is to be made, it is done through politics. It is done through ideas. But every attack based on identity hurts not only the targeted person but also social peace. For this reason, everyone, especially those who hold a pen, should know the weight of words.
Because some words are not just said; they leave a mark. And that mark is often deeper than we think.