A Historic Surprise for Mayor Eşki from the Bornova Branch of the Turkish Women’s Union

The Bornova Branch of the Turkish Women’s Union visited Mayor Ömer Eşki as part of the 100th anniversary of the Hat Reform, presenting him with a hat modeled after the one used by Atatürk, along with a black-and-white photograph of him wearing a checkered jacket. During the visit, the participants emphasized their commitment to the reforms of the Republic, while Mayor Eşki expressed his gratitude for the meaningful gifts and underlined the importance of these reforms in Turkey’s path to modernity.

The 100th anniversary of the Hat Reform—one of the symbolic milestones of the Republican revolutions—was commemorated in Bornova with a meaningful event. During their visit, the Bornova Branch of the Turkish Women’s Union presented Mayor Ömer Eşki with a specially designed hat identical to the model worn by Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

“To protect the reforms is to protect the future”

The visit was attended by Şerife Özkan, Vice President of the Bornova Branch of the Turkish Women’s Union, along with members of the association. Emphasizing their commitment to the reforms of the Republic, Özkan stated that the Hat Reform was not merely a change in clothing, but a reflection of Türkiye’s embrace of modernity and rational thought. “We are determined to walk the path opened by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and to keep the spirit of the reforms alive,” she said.

Mayor Eşki: “Every step of the Republic is a step toward a brighter future”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki thanked the women for their meaningful visit and gifts, drawing attention to the importance of safeguarding the achievements of the Republic. “The Hat Reform is a symbol of a modern social order and a rational approach to governance. It is an honor for me to commemorate this anniversary together with the women of Bornova,” he said.

A commemorative photograph reflecting history

During the visit, Mayor Eşki was also presented with a black-and-white photograph depicting him in attire reminiscent of Atatürk’s era—a checkered jacket, tie, and cap. The photograph symbolizes the spirit of the reform years and the era’s vision of modernization.

About the Hat Reform

The Law on the Adoption of the Hat, passed by the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye on 25 November 1925, required members of parliament and civil servants to wear the modern “hat” as the official headgear. The reform quickly spread throughout the country as part of the broader modernization efforts of the Republic. The law was published in the Official Gazette on 28 November 1925 and became one of the most significant symbols of the Republic’s vision of progress and modernity.