June 2, 2017, Izmir
During her June 2 visit to Izmir, U.S. Consulate General Istanbul held meetings with the Turkish-American Business Association (TABA), Association for Solidarity with Asylum Seekers and Migrants (ASAM), the American Collegiate Institute (ACI), and the Association for Supporting Slow Living (YAYADE). The breakfast with TABA provided an opportunity to better understand the business environment of the Aegean region. Through her conversations with refugees, CG Davis saw first-hand U.S. humanitarian assistance to Syrian refugees in Turkey. At the center, she directly engaged with children in art therapy sessions and heard first-hand accounts the challenges refugees face.
Consul General Davis brought her “Artık Top Sende!/Your Turn to Play!” sports diplomacy challenge to Izmir. She encouraged ACI students seize their school motto, ‘Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve’ and participate in Consulate General Istanbul’s community service campaign. The campaign promotes student community service through sports diplomacy by inviting students to come up with innovative ideas that promote diversity, inclusion, and local community improvement.
YAYADE officials briefed her on the recent completion of the U.S. Embassy-sponsored Rom Blue project. Utilizing music collaboration, the project promoted tolerance and a greater understanding of the Roma community in Izmir.
Many thanks to Esra Simsir and Ismail Genay for a great visit to ASAM Child and Family Support Center’s operations. 
