Afro-Turks in their daily life experiences and their use of urban space: The example of Izmir

This study aims to make a detailed analysis on the position and status of Afro-Turks in social life and their socio-economic situation, based on their daily life experiences of using urban spaces. In this context, a qualitative research with in-depth interviews and participant observation data collection methods was preferred to see how Afro-Turks interpret and make sense of their experiences in the public space. During the research process, interviews were made with thirty-three people from different ages and occupational groups living in many districts and neighborhoods of Izmir city center. As a result of these interviews, key findings regarding of Afro-Turks practices of using urban space in daily life, the strategies they developed against the discriminatory attitudes they faced, social status and position and socio-economic situation, participation in many public spaces, organizing efforts, social and institutional relations of were determined. During the time spent in the space, the opportunity to see the attitudes of the other members of the society closely was found in cafes, home and workplace visits, public transportation such as metro, tram, ferry, and urban spaces such as fairs, exhibitions, and the behaviors of Afro-Turks in daily life finding were obtained. As a result of the research, it is seen that Afro-Turks are actively involved in every level of the labor market and in every social, cultural and artistic platform of social life according to their profession and education. Despite the strong and solid bond they establish in their social life and family relationships, they sometimes have to deal with serious problems due to their skin color. It is imperative that the negative experiences they experience in daily life and the perspective of the society change and the visibility and awareness of Afro-Turks increase. This study aims to contribute to the increase in the awareness of Afro-Turks.