As part of its fieldwork

As part of its fieldwork, our union held extensive consultations with representatives of the Diyarbakır State Theater and the Directorate of the Diyarbakır State Classical Turkish Music and Civilizations Choir, with the aim of developing on-site solutions to the chronic problems faced by workers in the culture and arts sector and strengthening organized struggle. The key topics discussed and our specific demands are reported below. The most fundamental agenda item of the meetings was the loss of rights resulting from the across-the-board raise not being reflected in “incentives and bonuses.” Detailed information was provided to our members regarding the legal proceedings our union has initiated and which are currently ongoing on this matter. Inclusion of the across-the-board pay raise in all additional payments and pension contributions. We emphasized the need for public awareness and support across all institutional mechanisms to ensure that the lawsuit filed by our legal department serves as a precedent. The grade and step discrepancies (adjustment crises) experienced by our colleagues who have transitioned from 4B status to permanent positions within the institution were discussed, and all developments regarding the process were shared. The issue of past service periods not being fully counted toward grade/step. Pay disparity: failure to reflect annual seniority in salary. Issues regarding the compensation of retroactive rights losses were addressed.

During consultations with the Choral Society of Civilizations, it was emphasized that the logistical challenges the group faces in carrying out its artistic activities and the uncertainties regarding the artists’ labor rights must not be allowed to undermine the Society’s contribution to social harmony. In the second half of the year, our demand for a “Flat Tax Rate” was brought back to the agenda in response to the real income loss experienced by artists due to their salaries falling into the 27% and 35% tax brackets.

At this event, where we also attended the premiere of the children’s play *Alacalı Şemsiye* by the Diyarbakır State Theater, the awareness and united stance of our workers on all issues have given us hope. With determination until we achieve results Kültür Emek-Sen