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The author reports on the Gezi Park protests in Istanbul, which began as a movement to save the city's only central green area from being replaced by a shopping mall designed as Ottoman army barracks. The protests evolved into a national movement against the abuse of power and human rights violations, characterized by non-violent demonstrations and creative community support. The author details the government's response, including police violence using tear gas and water cannons, the arrest of medical professionals and lawyers, and the suppression of independent media. The text also highlights broader environmental concerns, such as the Bosphorus bridge project and the destruction of a hilltop park for a mosque, while criticizing the United States for its unconditional support of Prime Minister Erdogan.