PodcastSeasonal agricultural workers spend Eid away from families in southern Turkey
Seasonal workers in the southern province of Adana have to spend Eid al-Fitr away from their families and in tents due to their obligation to work to make a living. While it's a time for families to unite, seasonal workers, who stay in tents they set up near the agricultural lands, can't do so. "We don't return to their hometowns during Eid, because we have to finish the working season," said one of the workers, Mithat Batmaz.
Duvar English
Seasonal workers in the southern province of Adana have to spend Eid al-Fitr away from their families and in tents due to their obligation to work to make a living.
"We don't return to their hometowns during Eid, because we have to finish the working season," said one of the workers, Mithat Batmaz, adding that they will work until November.
Another worker, Hasan Sadaklı, said that they can't return to their hometowns over both the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the necessity of working.
"The Eid is a bit boring this time. We can't go out and see our families. I hope everything will get better in the upcoming days," Sadaklı said.
Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Islamic holy fasting month of Ramadan, is celebrated by millions of Muslims around the world. It's also known as Sugar Feast in Turkey.
While it's a time for families to unite, seasonal workers, who stay in tents they set up near the agricultural lands, can't do so.
Workers on May 24 exchanged Eid greetings in the Yumurtalık district of Adana, as children collected candy in line with the tradition.
Seyhan Chamber of Architects board member Cahit İncefikir visited the workers, saying that they are the most important figures in agricultural production.
"I thank them on behalf of all farmers for their contributions to production and celebrate their Eid," İncefikir said.