[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12708]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF THE 22ND ANNUAL TURKISH-AMERICAN DAY PARADE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 20, 2003

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the 22nd annual 
Turkish-American Day Parade. For over 20 years the parade has united 
people in its celebration of the many contributions Turkish Americans 
have made to the history and diversity of New York City, and our great 
country.
  Since its conception, The Federation of Turkish American 
Associations, which hosts the parade, has successfully established a 
vital link between the Turkish and American communities. The Federation 
has evolved with the changing times and has expanded in size, 
membership and purpose.
  The parade is a culmination of the month long Turkish Culture 
Festival. Americans of all heritages will be treated to lavish floats, 
men women and children dressed in regional attire, and a sea of 
American and Turkish flags. Miss World, Azra Akin, will also 
participate.
  New York is a city inspired by every corner of the globe. We draw on 
and benefit from a myriad of cultures whose citizens have settled here 
lending their talents, ambition and drive. Turkish influence is evident 
throughout the city.
  It is hard to walk a block in New York City without seeing a Turkish 
restaurant, a building whose design was influenced by Turkish 
architecture or a store awning that includes calligraphy, an art form 
first practiced in Turkey.
  The Turkish-American Day Parade is also a chance to honor Turkish 
Americans who are leaders in their fields, having made contributions in 
business, the arts, entertainment, and public service not only for the 
Turkish community, but for all New Yorkers and Americans. Post parade 
festivities include various Turkish folk dancing troupes, traditional 
costumes, music, food and artists displaying diverse Turkish culture. 
In addition, Turkish American Veterans will participate.
  In recognition of outstanding Turkish American contributions, I ask 
my colleagues to join me in honoring the 22nd annual Turkish American 
Day Parade.

                          ____________________