Zehra Doğan

Zehra Doğan, born in 1989, is a talented Kurdish artist, journalist, and writer hailing from Diyarbakır, Turkey. Her work is deeply rooted in the socio-political landscape of her homeland, often reflecting the struggles and resilience of the Kurdish people.

In 2017, Doğan faced severe repercussions for her commitment to truth and freedom of expression. She was sentenced to two years, nine months, and twenty-two days in prison for charges of 'terrorist propaganda.' This sentence stemmed from her courageous news coverage, social media activity, and a poignant painting that illustrated the devastation of Nusaybin, a town in southeastern Turkey, following violent clashes between state security forces and Kurdish PKK insurgents.

After enduring the harsh realities of imprisonment, Doğan was released from Tarsus Prison on February twenty-fourth, two thousand nineteen. Her experiences have only strengthened her resolve to advocate for human rights and the artistic expression of marginalized communities.