On October 2nd, 2014, Pacifica Institute hosted its 1st Annual Dialogue and Friendship Dinner at the Hilton Anchorage in Alaska. Over 65 people attended the event, including a U.S. Senator, Alaska state legislators, academics, religious leaders, businesspersons, activists and community leaders.
The evening began with an opening reception followed by a keynote speech titled “Respect for the Sacred in the Context of American Religious Freedom and Freedom of Speech” by Dr. Philip Clayton, Ingraham Professor of Theology at the Claremont School of Theology. Next, Hakan Tasci, the TUSKON-U.S. Representative, discussed the importance of developing U.S.-Turkey relations and also encouraged trade partnerships between Turkey and the state of Alaska. Alaska state senator Gary Stevens thanked Pacifica Institute for organizing the dinner and expressed interest in forming trade, economic and cultural ties between Alaska and Turkey. U.S. Senator Mark Begich (AK) also gave brief remarks and encouraged the Pacifica Institute to continue their efforts in “serving humanity and promoting social, educational and trade connections.”
Dr. Regina Boisclair, Professor of Religious Studies at Alaska Pacific University, concluded the dinner by expressing the value of the Hizmet Movement and its affiliated organizations in maintaining world peace especially during times of conflict in many regions around the globe.
Established in 2003, Pacifica Institute is a non-profit organization that encourages dialogue and engagement through monthly lectures, conferences and discussions that promote mutual understanding. It also hosts dinners, festivals and cultural trips throughout the year. Pacifica Institute is a member organization of the West America Turkic Council (WATC). WATC is one of six regional federations organized under the Turkic American Alliance.
