This year, Turkish American Women Society (TAWSO) presented two New Yorkers with the Zubeyde Hanim Inspirational Love Award. Zubeyde Hanim was the mother of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. The award is presented to women leaders in the NYC community who have stood out with their contributions and leadership not only to the Turkish-American Community but also to humanity. These women are not necessarily Turkish, but they represent Turkey’s heritage of understanding, community and tolerance and inspire others to embody these characteristics as well. The recipients of the award this year were New York State Senator Liz Krueger and President of Ramerica Nur Emirgil. Senator Krueger has been a longtime proponent of intercultural dialogue and the strengthening of relations between Turkey and the US. She was one of the honorary speakers at the Annual Ramadan Friendship Dinner and has been an important friend of the Turkish-American Community. During her speech Senator Krueger expressed her gratitude for receiving an award named after the mother of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and the importance of intercultural dialogue.

   Nur Emirgil is the honorary President of the Moon and Stars Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Turkish Arts and Culture in NYC and a board member of the American Turkish Society (ATS). During her speech, Ms. Emirgil stressed the importance of social organizations in bridging gaps between communities and especially the role of arts and culture in helping people understand one another. The night also featured a presentation on the life of Zubeyde Hanim and performances by violinist William Harvey, saz player Mahmut Celiker and oprah singer Ok-Ja Lim. The award ceremony took place on April 4, 2007 and in the future will be held on March 8, International Women’s Day.

click for more pictures of the event..