Turkish students organize Independence Day celebration

Today’s Republic of Turkey came into being on Oct. 29, 1923. After Turkey’s defeat in World War I as part of the Ottoman Empire, the Allies authorized Greece to occupy key areas of Turkey. Greece moved farther into the territory, setting off nationalistic fervor under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Today, Turks all over the world remember the declaration of the Turkish Republic, and Madison will be no exception this year. Saturday, Nov. 5, will celebrate the national liberation struggle with Turkish culture exhibitions, music by local musicians Haluk and Aydin, dance, a slide show and food by the Dardenelles Restaurant. Munci Kalayoglu, UW–Madison professor of transplantation, will deliver the keynote address.

The festivities will begin at 7 p.m. at the Madison Senior Center, 330 W. Mifflin St. The cost of dinner is $16. For more information, call 215-3385 or e-mail haluk_mats@yahoo.com.