[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 177 (Thursday, October 26, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1019-E1020]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING TURKEY'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY AND JAZZ DIPLOMACY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 26, 2023

  Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize a historic 
milestone, the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey.
  One remarkable aspect of Turkey's presence in the United States is 
the Turkish Embassy in Washington, D.C. Over the years, the Embassy has 
played a vital role in enhancing cultural diplomacy and fostering 
friendships between our nations. Notably, the Turkish Embassy's 
dedication to hosting jazz events has left an indelible mark on our 
cultural landscape. Jazz, a truly American art form, has found a 
welcoming home within the walls of the Turkish Embassy. These events 
have transcended mere musical performances; they have served as bridges 
connecting hearts and minds across cultures, and continue to prove the 
non-negligible, connecting nature of music.
  At the height of Jim Crow segregation in the U.S., the Turkish 
Embassy's jazz concerts in the 1930's and 1940's were significant 
during the anti-racism struggle. At this time, Black Americans were not 
allowed to sit next to whites in many places like restaurants and 
concert halls. Yet, the Turkish Embassy in Washington broke down 
prejudice and barriers by opening their doors to Black jazz musicians. 
Munir Ertegun, Turkey's second ambassador to the U.S. who served 
between 1934 and 1944, and his two sons, Ahmet and Nesuhi--also the 
founders of the top recording company Atlantic Records--challenged 
racism in the U.S. by inviting African American jazz performers to the 
Turkish Embassy for concerts and jam sessions in Washington, D.C. 
during these years. These Embassy concerts featured iconic performers 
like Lois Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Teddy Wilson, and Lester Young. 
These groundbreaking gatherings showed the potential of jazz diplomacy. 
The Ertegun brothers went further by organizing Washington's first 
integrated concert in 1942 at the Jewish Community Center on 16th 
Street. Some described the powerful imagery of two Muslim men bringing 
Black music to a Jewish-owned institution. This desegregation through 
music and culture launched a legacy worth recognizing.
  Turkey's efforts extend far beyond its musical contributions to the 
global community and the United States. It has been a source of 
inspiration for countless individuals, including African American 
writers like James Baldwin. Baldwin, whose literary brilliance 
continues to

[[Page E1020]]

resonate, routinely found solace and creativity in Turkey.
  Baldwin, who famously stated: ``Turkey saved my life!'' lived off and 
on in Istanbul for nearly ten years beginning in 1961. The nation's 
rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse society provided Baldwin 
with the backdrop and inspiration for some of his most profound works. 
This connection between Turkey and a literary giant like James Baldwin 
demonstrates the transformative power of cultural exchange and the 
enduring bonds that can be forged between nations.
  As we recognize Turkey's 100th anniversary, let us not only honor its 
remarkable journey but also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening 
the bonds of friendship and cultural understanding between Turkey and 
the United States. May the jazz that has filled the halls of the 
Turkish Embassy continue to serve as a powerful reminder of our shared 
values and aspirations. Especially in these turbulent times, working 
together for our shared goals of peace, fairness, and justice is more 
important than ever. May the spirit of democracy, liberty, and cultural 
exchange continue to flourish between our two great nations in the 
years to come.

                          ____________________