Number 243 | October 29, 2013
TCA commemorated the 90th Anniversary of Turkish Republic Day on October 29. On this day in 1923, the newly recognized Turkish parliament proclaimed the establishment of the Republic of Turkey and Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who led the Turkish National War of Liberation, was unanimously elected as its first president.
This year, as the 90th Anniversary of Turkish Republic Day is being celebrated, we express our sincere appreciation to the various organizations and friends of the Turkish-American community who delivered congratulatory messages marking this important milestone.
On this occasion, Co-Chairs of Congressional Turkey Caucus, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx of North Carolina, Congressman Ed Whitfiled of Kentucky, Congressman Steve Cohen of Tennessee, and Gerry Connolly of Virginia, congratulated the Turkish people. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York also sent a commemorative letter to the Turkish Americans. Congressman Henry Cuellar of Texas (member of the Congressional Hispanic and Turkey Caucuses) sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), Dr. Serdar Cam, thanking TIKA for providing, and TCA for facilitating, a grant addressing rural poverty in Central and South America. Congressman Andre Carson of Indiana (member of the Black and Turkey Caucuses) sent a congratulatory letter to TCA President, G. Lincoln McCurdy, extending his appreciation to the Turkish-American community for advancing the relationship between Turkey and the African American community. Congressman Bill Pascrell of New Jersey also expressed congratulations to the Turkish people.
Also, on this occasion, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) passed a resolution commending Turkey and Turkish Americans for continued efforts to further the economic and cultural relations of Native nations and Turkey. Additionally, the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) sent a letter to Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan commending the efforts by Turkey and Turkish Americans in reaching out to Native Americans. In particular, the NAIHC expressed sincere appreciation for the educational and economic aid initiatives spearheaded by TCA benefitting Native Americans.
As we celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the Turkish Republic, the enduring lessons of this day serve to inspire many Turks and the Turkish-American community to uphold the founding principles of the Republic and the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who embarked on a wide-ranging set of reforms, which has led to creation of today’s modern, democratic and secular Turkish nation.
