Turkic Cultural Exchange and Community Dialogue


Date posted: July 23, 2013

By Niagara Intern Staff: Polina Zasheva, Emma Hornor and  Eleanor Peck

Nearly seventy-five legislators and staff attended the annual Turkic cultural reception at the State Capitol, hosted by Niagara Foundation. The event awarded attendees and guests with the chance to dialogue with lawmakers over a buffet of Turkish food and coffee on topics of interfaith, multiculturalism and global acceptance.

When asked what this program had to offer Vice President of Niagara Foundation Mevlut “Hilmi” Cinar stated, “We are coming with representatives of many cultures with hope to introducing them to our legislators”. The reception took place in Secretary of State Jesse White’s office. Representatives from the Turkish-American and Kyrgyzstani-American communities in Illinois conversed with the legislators and staff members of the Joint Task Force on Illinois-Turkish Relations.

Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, a member of the task force and long-time friend of Niagara Foundation addressed the group and expressed his enthusiasm for the organization. He asserted that “[his] experience with Niagara Foundation has been very positive.” He continued saying that “[the foundation] works with all elements of society, trying to bring people together, to develop a better understanding of each other. And, to learn that people generally are good people and everyone can live in peace and harmony”.

Furthermore, House of Democrats representative Jack Frank noted, “I wish more groups would copy what Niagara does. It is so important for people to understand the different cultures. It brings folks together. I think it is because of Niagara’s work you’re seeing benefits, not only culturally, but also in business. We’re working on a bill right now to help a Turkish corporation do some business here right in Illinois. That would never have happened without Niagara’s intervention and leadership.”

The Consul General of Turkey, Fatih Yildiz, and Greek Orthodox Bishop Demetrios also spoke about the importance of the Niagara Foundation and its goals of fostering communication and acceptance across cultures and religions.

“I am a friend of Niagara and of course I am here to partake in the wonderful dialogue. I have been with Niagara for many years now and still I am fazed by the amazing work everyone does”, explained Bishop Demetrios with a smile.

Senate president John Cullerton addressed the attendees in the room saying, “I am also happy to be here with friends from Turkey. I had the pleasure of going to Turkey twice, not as many times as the Speaker, but nonetheless a very interesting trip. In fact, I enjoyed it so much the first time that I went back and took our whole family and friends and we tricked our children into going on a field trip every day because that’s what Turkey’s like. Five thousand years of history, it was fascinating and the people there were very warm.”

The positive feedback from audience members, speakers, and prominent leaders in Illinois politics was overwhelming. At large, guests were inspired by Niagara’s mission and drive to promote global fellowship, establish a platform for socially responsible partnerships, and encourage conversations centered on multiculturalism, interfaith, and interpersonal growth. Most importantly, the dialogues resonated with Niagara’s efforts to create a mechanism for learning that extends beyond a classroom or every day work setting.

Source: Niagara Foundation , June 4, 2013


Related News

Prof. Scott Alexander: Hizmet is a social movement for peace

“What I have personally observed is that Hizmet is a movement that embraces contrasts and in which everyone can find a place for themselves. It’s a globally transformational movement. It is, on the other hand, able to combine tradition and modernity and bring them around the common values. Although I might not be necessarily exercising your values, I consider myself a part of this movement. The principles that lead the movement are what lead my life as well.” Alexander remarked.

Fethullah Gulen and Gulen Movement discussed in New York

A special conversation on Fethullah Gulen and the Gulen Movementby Peace Islands Institute was held at NY Turkish Cultural Center on April 9. The professor of Political Science and Public Administration, analyst and columnist Prof. Dogu Ergil was the guest speaker of the event hosted by Peace Islands Institute President Zafer Akin. In his opening speech, […]

Fountain Magazine Essay Contest

A life with no disasters is a fantasy. All of us face them – both personally and globally – sooner or later. Then, how should we face a disaster? Just as we take measures while constructing buildings on a fault line, can we be always prepared? How do we defend our inner peace when facing danger? Tell us how you survive difficult times. Give us your best advice. Share your greatest life lesson.

‘A movement like the Hizmet Movement is very important for correcting misconceptions of Islam’

Dr. Lawrence Geraty is a Professor of Archaeology and Old Testament Studies at La Sierra University in Riverside, California. He served as the second President of La Sierra University. He completed his PhD in Syro-Palestinian Archaeology at Harvard University.

John Suthers on Fethullah Gulen and Hizmet (aka the Gulen Movement)

John Suthers is the Attorney General of Colorado since 2005. George W. Bush appointed him as United States Attorney for the District of Colorado in August 2001. He was awarded the Kelley-Wyman Award by the National Association of Attorneys General in 2012. He is also adjunct professor at the University of Denver School of Law. […]

Jews should speak up for Hizmet

When we think of Hizmet, Jews conscious of our own history either can say, “There but for the grace of God go we,” or we can think of Rabbi Hillel: “If we are only for ourselves, what are we? And if now, when?” 

Latest News

Fethullah Gülen’s Condolence Message for South African Human Rights Defender Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Hizmet Movement Declares Core Values with Unified Voice

Ankara systematically tortures supporters of Gülen movement, Kurds, Turkey Tribunal rapporteurs say

Erdogan possessed by Pharaoh, Herod, Hitler spirits?

Devious Use of International Organizations to Persecute Dissidents Abroad: The Erdogan Case

A “Controlled Coup”: Erdogan’s Contribution to the Autocrats’ Playbook

Why is Turkey’s Erdogan persecuting the Gulen movement?

Purge-victim man sent back to prison over Gulen links despite stage 4 cancer diagnosis

University refuses admission to woman jailed over Gülen links

In Case You Missed It

Turkey Bars Entry Of Critics By Adding Their Names Next To ISIL Suspects

John Suthers on Fethullah Gulen and Hizmet (aka the Gulen Movement)

Dialogue Institute provides insight in Kansas City area on Turkey

What is wrong with the Western media?

Food and fun abound at Turkish Festival

Erdoğan…a factionist PM?

CHP: Anti-Hizmet ops were part of agreement between Erdoğan, military

Copyright 2023 Hizmet News