The Discursive Construction of National Sovereignty and Children’s Day: An Analysis of Cumhuriyet Newspaper’s April 23rd Covers

Aim: This study aims to examine the political discourse surrounding April 23, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day in Turkey, focusing on how the celebration has been represented in media. The research explores the festival’s role in national independence, children’s societal position, and social memory, highlighting the ideological frameworks constructed over time. The study seeks to understand how media shapes national identity, social values, and collective memory. Method: The research analyzed articles and covers related to April 23 published in Cumhuriyet newspaper from 1930 to 2023. Critical discourse analysis, framing analysis, and ideological discourse analysis were employed. Content analysis identified thematic structures, while historical and contextual interpretations traced changes and continuities in media representations. Results: Findings reveal that the celebration has been ideologically structured, emphasizing children’s central role in society and national sovereignty. Media consistently highlighted themes of national identity, democracy, social values, and children’s rights. The framing of the celebration evolved over time, reflecting shifts in political discourse and ideological emphasis across different periods. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that national festivals play a critical role in shaping social memory, identity, and norms through media representation. April 23 illustrates the ideological emphasis on children’s role and national sovereignty, highlighting the media’s capacity to influence public perception and reinforce national values over time.