London youth met at Dalston Cemevi at the “Sazlı Sözlü Muhabbet”, to talk about Alevism and learn more on the essence of the belief.
The event that took place on the 17th of November, brought many faces together, primarily young people who were keen to learn more on the history of Alevism, what it stands for and the rules. Combined with traditional song performances, the event was hosted by Ali Sezer, who is widely loved and respected by the community due to his knowledge on Alevism.
Answering young people’s questions, Sezer approached everyone with great kindness and informative answers from a both theoretical and traditional perspectives. Tackling the contemporary Turkey’s state of emergency, Sezer briefed the audience on the significance of learning and not falling for deception.
“If one says they are Alevi and means it, there can be no boundaries to his acceptance.”
“Our understanding of God is intertwined with conscience. If there is conscience, there is God. There is no need to look 7 dimensions ahead, the God is within. If one is not able to look within, even if they happen to cross all 7 realms, God cannot be found”
Mr Sezer also referred to the well solidarity of Alevi community in London and UK in general, by congratulating Cemevis and organisations for their enduring support to embalm the Alevi legacy.
“You young people managed to accredit Alevism as a belief and religion in to the UK constitution and school syllabuses. Whilst we could never achieve this in our own soils, I would like to thank you for your bright representation of Alevis in the UK”
“FAKE DEDES TO MISLEAD THE COMMUNITY”
Referring to AKP Governments latest deed by sending “Counsellor Dedes” to Europe to teach Alevism, Mr Sezer said this whole idea is a replica of an Ottoman-biased deed, which grounds on misleading communities and giving wrong information to the people on Alevism. Mr Sezer said the Cemevi and the community will never tolerate the “fake Dedes” who may come to teach Alevism in the UK.
After a resourceful Q&A session, the evening ended with a musical feast of traditional songs that are dear to Alevism.