Second Annual Turkic Cultural Day in Vermont State House

Second Annual Turkic Cultural Day in Vermont State House – April 17, 2013

The second annual Turkic Cultural Day organized by Turkish Cultural Center Vermont an Council of Turkic American Associations took place in Vermont State House with a great participation. During the event, a proclamation by both the Senate and the House declared the day as Turkic Cultural Day in Vermont.

The speaker of the House of Representatives Shap Smith, Consul General of Turkey in Boston Burak Kararti, Vermont State treasurer Beth Pearce, the president of CTAA Furkan Kosar, Senator Philip Baruth, World Affairs Council President Gail Stevenson, the president of Lumina University Prof. Ragip Gokcel, Vermont state senators, and representatives were among those who attended the second Turkish Cultural Day.

The event included a keynote speech by the speaker of the House of Representatives Shap Smith, remarks given by senators and representatives, multimedia presentation about Turkiye, live Ebru-art (marbling) demonstration, Sema (Whirling Dervish) performance, and display of Turkish art and photos.

“Turkish-American community continues to increase its presence in Vermont. TCC’s effort in celebrating diversity in our society by embracing different cultures and contributing to the peace and harmony through dialog is greatly appreciated.” said Shap Smith, the speaker of the House of Representatives.

The program was hosted by the Vermont legislators: Valerie Stuart, Jean O’Sullivan, Helen Head, Mike Yantachka, Ann Manwearing, Kesha Ram and Ann Pugh. The legislators aimed at introducing the event to a greater crowd in coming years.

“The agreement we signed with the president of Education Vermont, James Cross, is going to help improve our relations not only in cultural events but also in economic and educational interactions.” said Dr. Ragip Gokcel, the president of Lumina University.

Semazen (Whirling Dervish) Adem Baskaya entertained the guests with his mesmerizing Sema (whirling) show. Ebru (marbling) artist Humeyra Ozcan demonstrated her mastery in marbling. Guests enjoyed conversations with local members of Turkish-American community along with some Turkish delicacies such as Baklava and Borek.