MANHUNT expulsion: My statement

Summary

The speaker addresses recent controversies sparked by old photos, distancing themselves from extremist or far-right labels. They explain their past participation in a demonstration, clarifying that it was not a call for hate but a protest against a specific political organization. The speaker stresses their commitment to democracy, respect, and constructive dialogue, and acknowledges the ongoing media backlash. Despite stepping back from a series, they urge viewers not to boycott it or the people involved. In closing, they express gratitude for those who supported them personally, emphasizing that their actions have always been driven by honesty and genuine engagement, not for attention.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker addresses the controversy surrounding old photos of themselves, clarifying the context and background behind the images.
• 😀 The speaker was recently removed from the TV series 'Manhunt' due to the attention generated by the old photos, but they stress that it was a mutual and responsible decision.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes that the photos are a decade old, taken when they were younger, impulsive, and exploring various aspects of life.
• 😀 The photo in question, which depicts the speaker holding a banner at a protest, was not intended to promote hate or extremism but was directed at a political group (UETD) in Vienna.
• 😀 The speaker clarifies that they were never a member of the far-right group IB and did not organize any extremist actions; the banner represented opposition to Erdogan's political campaign in Vienna.
• 😀 The speaker acknowledges that they made mistakes in their youth but asserts that they are a democratic individual who respects others and their differing views.
• 😀 They mention their diverse background, highlighting their involvement in various causes such as medical work, security, and education, which they believe is not for personal PR but for genuine engagement.
• 😀 The speaker defends the right to express criticism in a democracy, particularly on topics like immigration and integration, even though these topics are often highly polarized.
• 😀 Despite the controversy, the speaker is grateful for the support received from friends and acquaintances who understand their behavior over the years, rather than reducing them to their past mistakes.
• 😀 The speaker questions the tendency of people to judge others based on old photos and urges more self-reflection rather than immediate outrage, stressing the importance of personal growth over time.

Q & A

What was the main reason the speaker made the video?

The speaker made the video to clarify recent developments regarding old photos of them being circulated, the controversy surrounding their involvement in a political movement, and to provide a personal explanation of their past actions and current beliefs.

How did the public react to the old photos of the speaker?

The public reacted by labeling the speaker as an extremist, fascist, or even a Nazi based on the old photos. This reaction was exaggerated and unfounded, according to the speaker.

What is the speaker's stance on the accusations made against them?

The speaker rejects the accusations of being an extremist or fascist, asserting that the old photos were taken out of context and do not define who they are. They emphasize that they respect others and have never promoted hate or violence.

What was the role of the speaker in the political event depicted in the photos?

In the photos, the speaker is holding a banner at a political event, but they clarify that the banner was directed at the UETD, a pro-Erdogan organization, and not a call for hate or violence. The speaker was not part of any extremist group.

How does the speaker explain their past involvement in political activism?

The speaker acknowledges that they were more impulsive and less diplomatic in their youth, but they stress that their political involvement was limited to raising concerns about specific issues, such as the illegal double citizenship problem in the Turkish community.

What is the speaker's relationship with the series 'Manhunt'?

The speaker was part of the series 'Manhunt' but has now parted ways with the show. This decision was made mutually after a conversation, as the speaker understood the potential associations and did not want to drag the show or its crew into the controversy.

How does the speaker address the idea of cancel culture and public judgment?

The speaker critiques the idea of cancel culture and the tendency to judge people based on old photos or past actions without understanding their full context. They advocate for more self-reflection and open, democratic dialogue rather than knee-jerk reactions.

What is the speaker's view on democracy and freedom of speech?

The speaker stresses the importance of democracy and the freedom to express critical views, including on topics like immigration and integration. They believe that healthy debate and criticism are essential in a democratic society.

Did the speaker ever advocate for extremist views?

No, the speaker has never advocated for extremist views. They emphasize that while they were involved in certain political activities in the past, they have always adhered to democratic principles and have never promoted hate or violence.

What is the speaker's future in the public eye?

The speaker is uncertain about continuing to produce content publicly. While they acknowledge that they have enjoyed the process in the past, they are now considering taking a step back to focus on more personal and important aspects of their life.