Kazakh Flag Raised in Manhattan as New York Declares ‘Kazakhstan Heritage Day’ in Honor of Republic Day
New York, The Gulf Observer: In a symbolic gesture celebrating the deepening friendship between Kazakhstan and the United States, a solemn ceremony was held in Manhattan’s financial district to raise the National Flag of the Republic of Kazakhstan in honor of Kazakhstan’s Republic Day.
The event, organized by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the United States, brought together representatives of the New York Mayor’s Office, members of the diplomatic corps, the Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan to the United Nations, the Consulate General of Kazakhstan in New York, as well as members of the Kazakh diaspora and Kazakh students studying in the U.S.
This year’s ceremony held special significance following an official proclamation by the New York Mayor’s Office, which declared October 23 as “Kazakhstan Heritage Day” in celebration of Kazakhstan’s Republic Day.
Signed on behalf of Mayor Eric Adams, the proclamation reflects New York City’s respect for Kazakhstan and appreciation for the contributions of the Kazakh community to the city’s vibrant cultural and social life. It also symbolizes the enduring partnership between Kazakhstan and the United States, underscoring shared values of mutual respect and international cooperation.
Honoring Friendship and Cultural Ties
Speaking on behalf of the City of New York, Charles Diamond, Special Counsel at the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, commended the Kazakh diaspora for its role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and expressed the city’s support for continued collaboration with Kazakhstan.
Galiya Tleuova, Senior Vice President at Sony, praised the achievements of Kazakh professionals in the United States and emphasized the vital role of young people in shaping and promoting a positive image of Kazakhstan globally.
David Klein, Senior Vice President of the New York Film Academy (NYFA), highlighted the opening of the Academy’s new campus in Almaty and expressed readiness to strengthen educational and cultural partnerships with Kazakh students.
The event featured moving musical performances that added a distinctly Kazakh spirit to the occasion. Jeff Gersh, an American musician based in New York who has mastered the traditional Kazakh dombra, performed pieces that captivated attendees and highlighted the fusion of cultures.
Gulzar Gabman, a member of the Kazakh community and winner of the Viva Music Carnegie Hall 2022 competition, performed traditional Kazakh songs, bringing a heartfelt and emotional tone to the ceremony. The music symbolized the enduring friendship and shared cultural appreciation between Kazakhstan and the United States.
Recognition of Community and Cooperation
In his address, Rauan Tleulin, Consul General of Kazakhstan in New York, extended gratitude to the New York Mayor’s Office for its continued support and partnership. He noted that the proclamation represents not only a gesture of friendship but also a recognition of the Kazakh community’s contributions to the social and cultural fabric of New York City.
The flag-raising ceremony and the designation of Kazakhstan Heritage Day mark a significant milestone in the strengthening of people-to-people ties, reflecting Kazakhstan’s growing global engagement and its positive presence within the international community.
