Recognizing Turkey's 100th Anniversary and Jazz Diplomacy

Floor Speech

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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 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.

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