National Sovereignty and Children's Day (23 April)

“Little ladies, little gentlemen! You are all a cherished rose, the star of the future and beacons of prosperity. You will be the instruments of suffusing the nation with rays of enlightenment and progress. Work hard, knowing how important and valued you all are. We have high expectations from you.” – Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

On 23 April 1929, upon Atatürk's proposal, the Turkish Grand National Assembly declared 23 April a national holiday dedicated to children. Turkey thus became the first country in the world to celebrate an official Children's Day. Today, this national holiday is celebrated in Turkey together with children from all over the world, in a spirit of peace and harmony.