Introduction to Tupraq

Preserving and Nurturing Uyghur Literature in the Digital Age

Tupraq is a comprehensive cultural center established on September 6, 2024, in Washington by Tahir Imin Uyghuryan, dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and advancement of Uyghur literature worldwide. The name “Tupraq” (meaning “soil” in Uyghur) symbolizes the foundation from which Uyghur literary creativity can flourish, even in diaspora.

Founded in response to the existential threats facing Uyghur literature in its homeland, Tupraq serves as both a sanctuary and a springboard for Uyghur literary expression. In East Turkistan (Xinjiang), Uyghur writers face persecution, books are confiscated and destroyed, websites are shut down, and the Uyghur language is systematically marginalized in education. Meanwhile, Uyghurs in diaspora struggle to maintain their linguistic and literary heritage amid the pressures of assimilation.

Tupraq addresses these challenges through six interconnected initiatives:

1. Tupraq Literary Library – A digital archive rescuing and preserving at-risk Uyghur literary works, particularly those banned or destroyed in the homeland.
2. Tupraq Literary Journal – A publishing platform for Uyghur writers in diaspora, nurturing new voices and creative expression in the Uyghur language.
3. Tupraq Literary Forum – Both online and physical spaces for discussion, critique, and celebration of Uyghur literature.
4. Tupraq Voice – An advocacy initiative documenting and speaking for disappeared, detained, and silenced Uyghur writers.
5. Tupraq Translation Service – A bridge between Uyghur literature and world literature, translating works in both directions to enrich cultural understanding.
6. Tupraq Literary Award – A recognition program celebrating excellence in Uyghur literary creation across various genres.

Managed and financially supported by the Uyghur Freedom Institute, Tupraq serves as a vital bridge connecting the past, present, and future of Uyghur literature. By transcending geographical borders and temporal constraints, it creates a space where writers and readers can connect, preserving a literary tradition that spans ancient epics, classical works, and contemporary expression.

We invite you to join us at www.tupraq.com to discover the richness of Uyghur literature, support Uyghur writers, and contribute to the survival and flourishing of this invaluable cultural heritage. Together, we can ensure that the Uyghur literary voice continues to resonate throughout the world.