Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 101st anniversary of the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. On October 29, 1923, Turkey was formally declared a republic. It was also the day it elected its first president, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Atatürk is beloved to this day by Turks all around the world and is credited with creating the foundations of modern-day Turkey.
Canadians of Turkish origin are a vibrant community whose language, culture and traditions have enriched the social fabric of Canadian society. Now, in 2024, the Turkish Canadian community has grown to more than 75,000 strong. Organizations such as the Federation of Canadian Turkish Associations and the Turkish Culture and Folklore Society of Canada work hard to put on important events for the community throughout the year. I want to acknowledge them and thank them for their contributions.
Canada is stronger because of our diversity, and the Turkish Canadian community has made us a stronger and better country.