A Message from the Founder: Inside FQM’s Washington, D.C. Inaugural Gathering
- Isabelle Karamooz
- 23 hours ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 5 hours ago
Over the past few weeks, I have spent time reflecting on our FQM Magazine D.C. Inaugural Gathering held at La Maison Française at the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C. What stays with me most is not only the evening itself, but the people, the conversations, and the thoughtful messages that followed afterward.
One message in particular came from James E. Patterson, who described FQM as “a cultural gift to America.” His words were both humbling and encouraging, especially at a time when meaningful cultural dialogue and human connection feel increasingly important.
On the evening of April 20th, French Quarter Magazine brought together diplomats, members of Congress, journalists, entrepreneurs, authors, artists, athletes (such as NBA Basket Player Enes Kanter Freedom) and members of the international community for an evening centered around empower voices, conversation, cultural perspectives, and international exchange. The gathering marked an important moment in FQM’s continued development between Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago, and Paris, reflecting our growing interest in diplomacy, the arts, travel, and global perspectives.
Guests first gathered for a cocktail reception accompanied by live piano music performed by talented pianist Aiden Mousavi. Throughout the evening, he played works by composers including Chopin, Rachmaninoff, Debussy, and Ravel, while also sharing some of his own improvisations, creating a warm and elegant atmosphere inside La Maison Française.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were His Excellency Ambassador D.D. Hamadziripi and his spouse, Ambassador Ana Irene Delgado Guerra, Ambassador James S. Gilmore, Congressmen Neal Dunn and Brian Babin and his spouse, along with representatives from several embassies, cultural institutions, and members of Washington’s diplomatic and artistic communities.
The evening also featured the unveiling of FQM’s Winter/ Spring issue with Tim O'Leary as cover star. Under his leadership, the Washington National Opera continues to play an important role in the cultural life of Washington, D.C.
Courtesy Photos of Ligel Brown
Another important moment of the evening was the presentation of the FQM Author of the Year recognition to Jan Jekielek for his book Killed to Order. The evening also featured an onstage conversation exploring journalism, human trafficking concerns, human rights issues, and the importance of thoughtful and meaningful dialogue in today’s world.
Killed to Order has received widespread attention for its examination of alleged human rights abuses committed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), including allegations of state-sanctioned forced organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience in China. Through years of research, interviews, and documentation, the book explores the human stories, political realities, and ethical questions surrounding these deeply concerning allegations.
You can watch NTD Evening News to find out more on the subject below:
"Jan has done a masterful job at pulling together the evidence to show people that this is absolutely happening."
"We in America, and really, all over the world, need to understand the corrupt and vile nature of the enemy that we face."
-- Reggie Littlejohn
When I started reading the book, the issue of forced organ harvesting became a real eye-opener for me.
During the FQM Magazine D.C. Inaugural Gathering, I personally honored Jan Jekielek with the FQM Author of the Year recognition in acknowledgment of his dedication to journalism, research, and public dialogue on complex global issues.
You can also watch the formal Award Ceremony on FQM’s YouTube channel:
Photographers captured many memorable moments throughout the gathering, and we would like to sincerely thank Madalina Kilroy, The Epoch Times, and Ligel Brown for their coverage and support.
French Quarter Magazine would also like to thank the Embassy of France for hosting this special evening, as well as the entire team at La Maison Française and the FQM team working behind the scenes to help make the event possible.
More than a formal gathering, the evening created an opportunity for people from different professional and cultural backgrounds to meet, exchange ideas, and continue conversations beyond their usual circles.
Courtesy Photos of Madalina Kilroy, The Epoch Times
The buffet-style reception was beautifully prepared by our sponsor Christophe Boulangerie. The presentation and authenticity of the food reflected the spirit of FQM itself; French-inspired, welcoming, and centered around sharing culture through experience. We would especially like to thank co-owner and chef Stéphane Grattier for his support and contribution to the evening.
Courtesy Photos of Ligel Brown
As FQM continues expanding internationally, the publication looks forward to developing more interviews, cultural coverage, artistic collaborations, and gatherings dedicated to thoughtful international conversations.
For additional photos from the evening and future initiatives, follow:French Quarter Magazine Official Facebook Page
Header Photo Credit: Madalina Kilroy, The Epoch Times
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