Democracy belongs to everyone who takes part in it.
We are a non-partisan Canadian association of people with ties to Türkiye and Turkish communities, working for democracy, the rule of law, human rights and equal dignity for every person, here in Canada and everywhere.
Founded on 29 October 2026, the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye.
The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government.Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 21(3)
Why we exist
Democracy is not a finished achievement. It is practised daily by citizens who are informed, who disagree peacefully and who hold power to account.
We bring that practice to a community that has lived it, lost it and fought for it in many places. Our purposes are set out in our articles of incorporation under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act.
- Understanding democracy, freedom and equalityAdvancing public understanding of the ideas and institutions that make self-government possible.
- Human rights and fundamental freedomsPromoting respect for civil liberties and fundamental freedoms, including multiple generations of rights.
- Rule of law and accountable governmentEncouraging transparency, ethical public administration and responsible governance.
- Opportunity, inclusion and dignityWorking toward equality of opportunity and a reduction of social and economic inequalities.
- Informed citizenshipDelivering education, research and community discussion that encourage democratic participation.
- Mutual understandingFostering cooperation among individuals and communities in the spirit of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, without regard to ethnic origin, language, gender, religion, belief, social background or political opinion.
The principles we govern ourselves by
These eight principles are written into our by-laws (Article 2). They guide how we run the Association, not only what we say about the world.
- Democracy2.1(a)
- Democratic institutions, peaceful political participation and respect for differing perspectives.
- Rule of law2.1(b)
- Everyone is subject to the law equally. No person, group or authority stands above it.
- Secular and neutral public institutions2.1(c)
- Public institutions independent of religious authority, serving all persons equally and neutral between beliefs.
- Equality and non-discrimination2.1(d)
- We reject discrimination, exclusion, racism, hate speech and intolerance in every form.
- Social responsibility2.1(e)
- Democracy needs solidarity and equality of opportunity to last.
- Transparency and accountability2.1(f)
- Open governance, answerable to our members and to the public.
- Non-partisanship2.1(g)
- We do not support, endorse or oppose any political party or candidate. Members take part in politics in their personal capacity only.
- Safety of members2.1(h)
- Some members may face risk because of their association with us, so we handle personal information with care.
Our work
We organize and support public education rather than campaigns. The calendar is announced to members and published here as programs are confirmed.
Educational programs
Courses and workshops on how democratic institutions work and how to take part in them.
Conferences and seminars
Open events with speakers and scholars on democracy, rights and public life.
Research
Independent research on democratic participation, rights and governance.
Publications
Reports, guides and articles that make the research useful to the public.
Community discussions
Respectful conversations where people with different views listen to one another.
Dialogue across communities
Partnerships that build understanding between communities across Canada.
Become a member
Membership is open to individuals who support our purposes. Applications are reviewed by the Board.
Apply by email- Open to anyone with a connection to Türkiye or Turkish communitiesCitizens or former citizens, people born in Türkiye, their descendants, spouses, partners and dependants, and people with a lasting personal, cultural, professional, academic or civic connection.
- No proof requiredA written declaration is enough. We do not ask for proof of citizenship, immigration status or national origin.
- Who can joinAdults living in Canada. Young people aged 16 and 17 can join as Honorary Members and take part in activities.
- Dues, and a waiver if you need oneDues are set by the Board and ratified by members. If paying would cause hardship, ask for a waiver. You do not have to explain or provide documents.
- A vote after one yearActive Members in good standing for 365 days can vote and stand for election as directors.
Run in the open, by its members
An association that speaks about accountability has to practise it. These commitments come from our by-laws.
Elected every year
Members elect a Board of three to nine directors at each annual meeting.
Open minutes
Minutes of Board meetings are available to every member. The Board meets at least four times a year.
Members can call a meeting
Members holding 5% of the votes can require a special meeting, and can remove a director by vote.
Fair process
No member can be expelled without written notice, 21 days to respond, a hearing if requested and a right of appeal to the members.
Unpaid leadership
Directors and officers receive no pay for their roles. Any conflict of interest must be disclosed, and the person steps aside from the decision.
Your information stays private
We never sell or share the register of members, and never publish a member’s name or image without consent.
The Association is a federal not-for-profit corporation. On dissolution, remaining property goes to qualified donees under the Income Tax Act. The Association is not a political party and does not issue donation receipts at this time.
Contact us
Write to us about membership, partnerships, events or media. Statements on public questions are reviewed by the Board before publication, so replies on those topics may take longer.
Registered office
North York, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Serving members across Canada