Turkish-Americans and friends of Turkey from around Michigan gathered on Sunday April 25, 2010, to celebrate the 90th anniversary of “23 Nisan, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day” at the Turkish-American Cultural Association of Michigan Cultural Center in Wixom. The event was attended by dozens of families with children of all ages, eager to join the celebrations and honoring the future of our nations and our world — the children. This event marked the conclusion of a weekend of exciting events in Michigan honoring children.
TACAM’s celebration began by singing the American and Turkish national anthems, followed by an introduction by TACAM President Leylâ Ahmed. The children then became the focus of the day’s celebrations. The older class of TACAM Turkish School, led by TACAM Vice-President Beste Windes, gave a presentation about the importance of the day in English and Turkish for their guests. The younger class of TACAM Turkish School, led by TACAM volunteer Özgün Ulupınar, then took the stage for a dance performance in celebration of the day. In the end all children came up front to dance and celebrate together.
Following the children’s program the community had an opportunity to meet Oakland County Sheriff and Michigan Gubernatorial candidate Mike Bouchard. Sheriff Bouchard introduced himself and his vision for the State of Michigan, and then opened the floor for questions. The sheriff was surprised and impressed at the interesting and thoughtful questions that the children asked him. Many adult members of the community also asked many questions regarding Sheriff Bouchard’s current role, and his policy ideas for his campaign for governor of Michigan.
TACAM also hosted Fran Brennan, a representative from Congressman Mark Schauer from Michigan’s 7th District. Fran spoke on behalf of the Congressman to congratulate the community on their celebration for children and their celebration of Turkish heritage. Following her short speech she also opened the floor to questions from children and adults in the room. Reflecting on the event Ms. Brennan said “The children were well informed and incredibly impressive. It was an honor to be at your meeting.”
In addition to the celebrations on Sunday, TACAM received a proclamation from Governor Jennifer M. Granholm who designated April 23, 2010, as “International Children’s Day.” The proclamation was made on the request of Turkish-American constituents as part of TACAM’s outreach activities.
Another gathering took place on Saturday, April 24, 2010, when a small group of Turkish children gathered to meet with Congressman John Conyers, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, who celebrated Children’s Day with the Turkish-American group led by ATAA Civic Engagement Director Yenal Küçüker and TACAM Grassroots committee chair Gökhan Özalp.
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