[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4882]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                96TH ANNIVERSARY OF TURKISH NATIONAL DAY

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 20, 2016

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call 
our attention to the 96th anniversary of Turkish National Day on April 
23rd, 2016. On this day 96 years ago, the Grand National Assembly was 
established, which led to the founding of the modern Republic of Turkey 
and the election of the first President, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. I am 
pleased to join my colleagues in recognizing the unique contributions 
to America's culture from those of Turkish and Turkish-American 
descent.
  As you may know, the Republic of Turkey has been paramount in its 
stride towards secular democracy since 1920. Turkey is the first 
secular democracy with a predominantly Muslim population in the world. 
As a key ally to U.S. for over 60 years, Turkey is a critical U.S. 
partner in countering terrorism, security and defense, trade, 
education, science, and innovation. Turkey has been invaluable in its 
role of hosting over 1.7 million Syrian refugees during the largest 
humanitarian crisis since World War II. Turkey also stands as a vital 
NATO ally in a region with escalated accounts of violence and tension 
and has been a partner in pushing back ISIL's control of certain 
territories.
  Since 1927, Turkey has also designated April 23rd as Children's Day 
to signify the role of future generations in the modern Turkish 
statehood. Turkey commits every year by emphasizing the important role 
the younger generations have in succeeding their predecessors. As I and 
many of my colleagues acknowledge, children are the future of our 
nation. On this day, children from all across Turkey come together and 
take over the Grand National Assembly to voice their concerns.
  Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate that the Congress has set aside this 
national day of celebration again in 2016. Turkish-Americans have left 
a unique imprint that has positively contributed to America's diverse 
cultural spectrum. Each year, it seems, we have a greater appreciation 
for the remarkable contribution of Turkey to our American values and 
democracy. We stand in deep appreciation and gratitude with our ally, 
Turkey on this Turkish National Day.

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