A look at the reach, recognition, and voices behind the Turkish Cultural Center's work across New York.
The Turkish Cultural Center was honored by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its outstanding commitment to community service, interfaith dialogue, and public safety — building bridges of understanding and strengthening the communities we serve.
Essays and commentary from the Turkish Cultural Center on dialogue, community service, and the values that guide our work.
In a time of rising division, the work of building bridges between faiths and cultures has never mattered more. Turkish Cultural Center New York was founded on the belief that dialogue is the antidote to prejudice, and that a shared meal can change more minds than a thousand arguments.
Turkish Cultural Center New York
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Charity is a universal value, but it is also a deeply Turkish one. The tradition of "hayır" — selfless giving for the sake of others — has guided our community for generations and continues to shape how we show up for our neighbors today.
Turkish Cultural Center New York
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The most important thing we teach young people is not a language or a recipe or a dance — it is the ability to listen. In an age of shouting, listening is a quiet act of courage.
Turkish Cultural Center New York
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Elected officials, government bodies, and civic leaders have formally recognized the Turkish Cultural Center for its contributions to cultural diversity, community service, and interfaith dialogue.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries
U.S. House of Representatives — 8th District of New York
U.S. House of Representatives
A proud partnership bringing fresh food and essential support to families across Brooklyn — thank you to the Turkish Cultural Center for your tireless service to our community.
Congressman Jeffries partnered with the Turkish Cultural Center for a community meat distribution event serving families in need across Brooklyn.
Community Partnership Recognition
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer
U.S. Senator — New York
United States Senate
I want to thank the Turkish Cultural Center of New York and the Blue Card Foundation for working together on this one-of-a-kind program — the only one in America teaching young Muslim Americans about the history of the Holocaust, the intertwined history of Muslims and Jews, and the need for tolerance, openness, and compassion in our world today.
Senator Schumer recorded a video message in support of the Holocaust Education Program for Muslim Students, a historic first-of-its-kind curriculum initiative organized by TCC New York and the Blue Card Foundation, implemented in Brooklyn high schools.
Holocaust Education Program
Senator Roxanne J. Persaud
NYS Senate — 19th District
New York State Senate
Thank you to the Turkish Cultural Center for hosting us and for your unwavering dedication to building community, fostering cultural exchange, and serving the people of New York.
Presented during an official visit to the Turkish Cultural Center Albany, recognizing the center’s ongoing community engagement efforts.
Senator’s Certificate of Recognition
Senator Velmanette Montgomery
NYS Senate — 25th District, Brooklyn
New York State Senate
The Annual Friendship Dinners bring together community leaders, elected officials, NGOs, members of the clergy, and supporters to foster mutual understanding, respect, and love — a proud expression of friendship.
Senator Velmanette Montgomery presented an official Senate Proclamation to the Turkish Cultural Center Brooklyn at its 9th Annual Friendship Dinner and Award Ceremony, held at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.
Senate Proclamation — 9th Annual Friendship Dinner
Acting Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez
Brooklyn District Attorney
Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office
For his dedication to protecting the rights of immigrants and fostering a safer, more just Brooklyn for all communities.
Presented at TCC Brooklyn’s 8th Annual Friendship Dinner & Award Ceremony, themed “Combating Hate Crime,” honoring those who protect and serve the community.
Peace Award
Sponsored by Assemblymember Cymbrowitz
Co-sponsors: Kevin Cahill, Ronald Canestrari, Robin Schimminger
New York State Legislature
Organizations of singular distinction as the Turkish Cultural Centers provide a model for enhancing the quality of life in the community and, as such, merit the grateful praise of the community of the State of New York.
Adopted by the NYS Senate and Assembly, commending the Turkish Cultural Centers upon the occasion of their 6th Annual Turkish Cultural Day at the Legislative Office Building in Albany.
Legislative Resolution 2011-K541
Sponsored by Assemblymember Cook
NYS Assembly — Legislative Resolution No. K787
New York State Assembly
In 2006, Sadri Altinok served as a founding member of the Turkish Cultural Center NY, with branches on Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island — TCCNY was formed to promote and foster lasting friendships based on mutual respect, open dialogue, interfaith, and intercultural activities.
The New York State Assembly adopted a formal resolution honoring TCC NY President Sadri Altinok upon his designation as recipient of the Lincoln-King Visionary Award, recognizing his commitment and service to the community.
Legislative Resolution No. K787
Presented by the FBI New York Field Office
National Recognition
Federal Bureau of Investigation
In recognition of outstanding commitment to community service, interfaith dialogue, and public safety — building bridges of understanding and strengthening the communities we serve.
A prestigious national honor given annually to individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional dedication to their communities.
FBI Director's Community Leadership Award
Office of the Mayor of the City of New York
City Hall Recognition
Office of the Mayor, City of New York
For invaluable contributions to the cultural vibrancy and diversity of New York City, and for fostering mutual respect and understanding among communities of all backgrounds.
Special citation recognizing the Turkish Women’s League of America and its affiliated cultural programs at the Turkish Cultural Center.
Mayor's Citation of Recognition
Assemblywoman Diana Richardson
43rd Assembly District
New York State Assembly
For outstanding commitment to serving the people of Brooklyn and strengthening the bonds of community through cultural engagement.
Presented at TCC Brooklyn’s 8th Annual Friendship Dinner & Award Ceremony, recognizing leaders dedicated to community service and peace.
Community Service Award
Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse
NYC Council — 46th District, Brooklyn
New York City Council
In recognition of leadership, perseverance, and commitment to community — your contributions make our borough stronger and more united.
Council citations presented to community leaders for their outstanding service and dedication to the people of Brooklyn.
NYC Council Citation
Assemblymember Steven Cymbrowitz
45th Assembly District
New York State Assembly
I want to commend the Turkish Cultural Center of Brooklyn for their endless efforts in indiscriminately helping members of their community, regardless of background.
Assemblymember Cymbrowitz addressed the 8th Annual Friendship Dinner, praising TCC Brooklyn’s community service and commitment to shared values.
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