The city is very charming, friendly, and bustling. We are staying in a touristy area but it does not feel this way- perhaps its not tourist season. We were introduced to a few students and faculty of
ts of a Romani community which has existed for over 1000 years nearby the Istanbul Ancient Wall (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The residents, like many margi
nalized communities in urban areas today, are threatened by eviction. Many have been forced to sell their properties to make way for new Ottoman style housing developments. We have to do something about this.
We arrived to Sulukule with two students from the University who helped translate our questions. Initially the residents were apprehensive of our being there but I think our diverse group may have triggered some curiosity. We are all from different countries and not a very threatening looking bunch. We were invited to dance with some of the women and children who were quite fascinated by Lantana (our Nigerian colleague). When she did not respond to dancing to their mu
sic, they changed it to Missy Elliot. They were fun and hospitable. I wish I could speak to them and pick up some basic conversation at least. The homes were definitely dilapidated, but surprisingly in not as bad conditions I had imagined. We met Sukru the president of Sulukule Romany Culture Solidarity and Development and some local residents. We asked them about their community and the future prospects. From what we gather thus far, the community has strong social ties, wants to preserve their cultural heritage (dancing and music), would like to remain where they are, and have more negotiation power with the local municipality. Currently we are in the mist g
athering information and envisioning possible scenarios which could alleviate the situation. We hope to find a common ground where the city may respond to the rising land markets and preserve their cultural heritage-meghna
