The Brat Journalist of Turkish Literature: Sabiha Sertel

In modern pop culture, the term "brat" has taken on a fresh, empowering meaning. It now describes someone who is boldly rebellious, unapologetically confident and original in style. This new term "brat" embraces individuality and celebrates a carefree attitude, often paired with a touch of sass and a flair for fun. Being called "bratty" in this context is no longer an insult but a compliment—a recognition of a person's fearless ability to challenge norms, stand out, and express themselves freely, unbound by traditional expectations. (Dictionary.com)

When we look at the literature and journalism we see a lot of brats that challenge the norms and celebrates their differences with an honour. In literature authors use their voices and platforms to address uncomfortable truths, provoke critical thought, and inspire change. Authors like Virginia Woolf redefined narrative structure, while other figures like Oscar Wilde used satire to expose societal hypocrisies. They did not feared of being different and we can see their unapologetic confident in their works. In journalism, "brats" use their voice to challenge the status quo by fearlessly pursuing the truth, exposing corruption, and advocating for justice. Sometimes they face with cencorship or personal danger but this do not stop their search for justice and truth. Turkey’s first female journalist Sabiha Sertel has this spirit, boldly criticizing oppressive systems and searching for equality, even in the face of exile and imprisonment.

Sabiha Sertel was the first woman in the Republic of Turkey to establish journalism as her profession. Alongside her husband, Zekeriya Sertel, she fought tirelessly through the newspapers and magazines they produced. She championed democratic reforms in the young republic and strongly advocated for press freedom and women’s rights. Additionally, she worked to promote class awareness and aimed to educate and empower all segments of society. ( Aylin Yazan, BBC)

Sabiha Sertel wasn’t just a pioneer in Turkish journalism—she was a bold, rebellious force who refused to conform to societal norms, making her the true "brat" in journalism the best possible way. Her life and work exemplify a fearless resistance to the authority, a commitment to truth, and dedication to justice. She proved that women could not only participate in but lead conversations about politics, society, and justice. Her entry into this male-dominated field was an act of rebellion against traditional gender roles. Her articles openly criticized the limited roles assigned to women, calling for their active participation in politics, education, and the workforce.

In her autobiography Roman Gibi, Sabiha Sertel talks about a childhood memory that shaped her views on patriarchy. At eight years old, she asked her mother, who was serving her father, “Are you his servant?” Her mother replied, “Every woman is her husband’s servant.” Sabiha firmly declared, “I will not be my husband’s servant!” This defining moment highlighted her early resistance to patriarchal norms.

Along with her husband, Zekeriya Sertel, Sabiha published the Tan newspaper (1935), which became a voice for progressive ideas, advocating for democracy, secularism, and social justice. The authorities saw Tan as subversive. The newspaper was frequently censored, and the Sertels were accused of spreading communist propaganda.

During the politically charged 1930s and 1940s, Sabiha Sertel faced threats from powerful figures, including Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi Minister of Propaganda. In her autobiography, she recalls a German journalist warning her that Goebbels threatened to "cut out her tongue" for her anti-fascist writings. Sertel boldly replied that she would continue fighting fascism until that day came, exemplifying her unwavering defiance and commitment to justice. (Ece Deniz, Journo)

Nazım Hikmet supported Sabiha Sertel's press activities by contributing articles to Tan newspaper and other left-leaning publications. Sertel, in turn, defended his works and socialist ideology, providing a platform to disseminate his ideas. Both faced the authoritarian pressures of their time, enduring imprisonment and exile, yet remained committed to their struggles. This mutual resilience fostered a sense of solidarity between them.

Sabiha Sertel, however, was critical of Halide Edip Adıvar’s nationalist and conservative tendencies. While Sertel advocated for more radical approaches to women’s rights and social equality, she found Halide Edip’s moderate reformist stances insufficient. In particular, Sertel criticized Halide Edip’s writings on “Westernization” policies, accusing them of overlooking class disparities in society.

Sabiha Sertel was a pioneering journalist and writer. She co-founded Resimli Ay in 1924, a literary and cultural magazine that addressed pressing social issues such as women’s rights and class struggles while featuring works by prominent writers like Nazım Hikmet. In 1935, she co-edited the daily newspaper Tan, which became a powerful voice for progressive ideals, advocating for secularism and critiquing government corruption until its printing house was destroyed by a government-backed mob in 1945. Her autobiography, Roman Gibi, published in 1968, offers a vivid account of her personal and political struggles, reflecting her fearless commitment to justice and equality. Through her essays, columns, and translations, Sertel highlighted gender inequality, social injustice, and the importance of press freedom, making her the ‘brat’ figure in Turkish journalism and literature.