Turkish immigrants in Seattle react to coup attempt

By Michael Konopasek, Q13 News

SEATTLE -- As one of America's strongest allies in the Middle East moves through political unrest, Turkish immigrants in Western Washington are closely monitoring what's happening in their homeland.

Some of the immigrants tell Q13 News they aren't sure how they feel about a coup. Others are throwing their support behind the government, saying a military takeover will pull the country away from democracy.

At Cafe Turko in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, owner Gencer Gokeri was glued to a 24-hour Turkish news network Friday.

"Here's my hometown shown right now," Gokeri said as he watched the news coverage. "Thousands upon thousands of people are in the streets supporting the government."

Gokeri, who immigrated to the United States at the age of 22, supports the government. He believes the military defectors want to bring Turkey back to a culture of oppression and strict religious rule.

"I'm puzzled because I thought the day of the military ... the day of the tyrants was over but apparently it's not."

Some of his Turkish-born customers aren't sure what to think-- not feeling impressed with the government or military. Those, not from Turkey who've traveled to the country in the past, are now concerned over travel restrictions. But those tourists tell Q13 News they'll be back.

"It's still a very nice place to visit," said Moinca Defreaits, a frequent visitor to Turkey. "I would say, visit."

Gokeri agrees and is hopeful the unrest is short-lived.

"I don't even want to call it coup," said Gokeri. "That's why I'm trying to find the right word. These are just renegades-- several hundred maybe. No more than that."

The immigrants were quick to point out this is not the first time Turkey has experienced something like this. The military has either staged coups or disrupted government order four times in the last 60 years.