Recognizing the 99th Anniversary of the Founding of the Republic of Turkiye

Floor Speech

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Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Turkish American Cultural Association of Michigan, it is my honor to recognize the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye. For nearly a century, Turkiye and the Turkish people have served as a beacon of cooperation, democratic ideals, and good citizenship.

Over the course of my career, I have had the opportunity to travel to Turkey, meet with Turkish leaders, and get to know the Turkish-American community in Michigan. Turkish Republic Day is an annual milestone and has been celebrated with great pride and joy since the republic's founding on October 29, 1923, by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. By replacing an aging empire with a vibrant democratic republic, Turkiye facilitated its own modernization and established itself on the national stage, including by being an important member of NATO for 70 years. Today, Turkiye remains a vital ally--from our work together against terrorist organizations, to countering international adversaries like Russia.

In Michigan, the Turkish diaspora community and those of Turkish descent have had a lasting impact on our state's culture, economic development, and education system, and have personified Michigan's ideal citizen. This especially includes the Turkish-American Cultural Association of Michigan, which has worked to promote Turkish culture and support programs benefitting the welfare of citizens throughout the state. The impact of their work on the people and communities of Michigan cannot be understated.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize Turkish Republic Day and the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye. I join with my constituents in celebration with the Turkish people, and wish them the best as they venture into the future.

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