Zaza People
The Zaza people are an ethnic group primarily found in eastern Turkey, particularly in the regions of Tunceli, Elazığ, and Diyarbakır. They speak the Zaza language, which belongs to the Northwestern Iranian branch of the Indo-Iranian languages. The Zaza people have a rich cultural heritage, with traditions that include music, dance, and storytelling.
Zaza society is predominantly Alevi, a branch of Shia Islam, which influences their customs and practices. They have a distinct identity, often characterized by their unique dialects and cultural expressions. The Zaza people have faced various social and political challenges, particularly regarding their language and cultural rights in Turkey.