Maryland Gov. Wes Moore proclaims Oct. 29 Republic of Türkiye Day

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has proclaimed Oct. 29, 2026, as Republic of Türkiye Day in the state, recognizing the 103rd anniversary of the Republic's founding and the contributions of Turkish Americans in Maryland.

Ally Daily Editorial DeskOctober 28, 2026, 09:07 PMUpdated: October 28, 2026, 10:46 PM

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore proclaims Oct. 29 Republic of Türkiye Day

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has issued a proclamation designating Oct. 29, 2026, as Republic of Türkiye Day in Maryland, marking the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye. Ally Daily obtained a copy of the document.

"Now, therefore, I, Wes Moore, Governor of the State of Maryland, do hereby proclaim October 29, 2026, as the Republic of Türkiye Day in Maryland, and do commend this observation to all of our citizens," the proclamation reads.

Gov. Wes Moore's proclamation declaring Oct. 29, 2026, Republic of Türkiye Day in Maryland

Proclamation praises Turkish Americans in Maryland

The document notes that the Republic of Türkiye was officially proclaimed on Oct. 29, 1923, "paving the way for a modern independent nation grounded in the principles of democracy, secularism, and progress." It says Maryland is proud to be home to a Turkish American community whose members contribute to the social, economic, educational and cultural fabric of the state.

It adds that Turkish Americans in Maryland excel in fields such as business, education, medicine, science, technology and the arts, and celebrates their role in strengthening "the bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation between our communities." The proclamation is signed by Moore, Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller and Secretary of State Susan C. Lee.

Unlike a tribute, Maryland's document formally proclaims the day. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser issued a proclamation honoring the Republic's 103rd anniversary earlier this month, while San Carlos, California, officially recognized Oct. 29 as Republic Day.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser's proclamation honoring the Republic's 103rd anniversary

Sister-state ties link Maryland and Kocaeli

Maryland and Türkiye's Kocaeli province launched a sister-state initiative in 2012 under the Maryland Sister States Program, a partnership aimed at expanding economic, tourism and educational ties. The Turkish American Steering Committee credits Turkish American community leader Günay Evinch with initiating the partnership.

The Maryland–Kocaeli committee takes part each year in the program's international legislative reception in Annapolis, where Turkish food and culture are showcased alongside Maryland's other sister states.

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