Lutherans call for two-state solution in Israel and Palestine -07/09/05
The overseeing council of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) has reiterated its call for an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and has affirmed the implementation of a roadmap for peace as crucial to establishing a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, with a shared city of Jerusalem.
The Lutheran World Federation is a global communion of Christian churches. Founded in 1947 in Lund, Sweden, the LWF currently has 140 member churches in 78 countries all over the world, with a total membership of nearly 66 million.In a public statement adopted yesterday at the end of its week-long meeting in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, the LWF council said that many of its members had encountered “the [Israeli] separation wall and found shocking its impact on the daily lives of Palestinians.”
The council further endorsed Bishop Younan’s call for an annual gathering in Jerusalem for prayers for peace and reconciliation involving Christians, Muslims, Jews, Palestinians and Israelis.
It also stressed the LWF’s continued support for inter-faith dialogue. They mentioned the Israeli separation wall’s implication for, among others, church members who could not attend services; farmers who were cut off from their fields; school-children delayed in or prevented from reaching their schools; and patients, who were unable to reach hospitals and clinics.In a statement entitled “Challenged to a Ministry of Reconciliation in the Holy Land,” the representatives of LWF member churches from all over the world said their stay in Jerusalem and Bethlehem had opened the “eyes of many of us to the daily sufferings of the Palestinian people, often not shown to us by the media, and in which context our member church speaks boldly a message of hope and reconciliation.”
This year’s LWF council meeting was hosted by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). Referring to the opening worship sermon by ELCJHL Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan, the Lutheran World Federation council members said: “Healing must begin with truth-telling and with breaking the silence that hides the suffering of those who are vulnerable and violated.”
Only such a start would allow the possibility of healing with justice and forgiveness, they noted. The public statement also pointed to the Palestinians’ significantly compromised freedom of movement that included separation of married persons from their families because they lacked the same required residence permit as their partner or children. It cited the lack of family reunification as among a series of pressures upon Palestinians in the Jerusalem area where houses were being demolished by the Israeli authorities and other facts on the ground were being created with the enlargement of settlements, forcing Palestinians off their land.
“The prevention of home and land confiscation and the creation of additional housing is essential in Jerusalem and other areas to help maintain their human right to housing as well as the demographic status quo,” the public statement declared. The LWF council members say increasing constraints on Palestinians are leading to a decreasing number of Christians in the Holy Land. They stressed the need for financial assistance toward education and other forms of investment in people in order to ensure the “enduring presence” of Christians in the region.
They continued: “Such assistance is an investment in people’s hope for positive change and contributes to preparing a fertile ground for building understanding among Palestinians and Israelis for reconciliation now and in the future.”
Lutheran World Federation member churches are being encouraged to make pilgrimages of peace to the churches in the region, to enable people to experience the living conditions in Palestinian areas and to promote the mutual renewal of faith.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Ekklesia
St. James
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PalestinianChristians
The Moderator
Palestine
Friday, September 16, 2005
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Shaheen Journalism Scholarships for 2005-2006 applications sought
IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR YOUR NEWSLETTER, MAGAZINE OR WEBSITE.PLEASE USE THIS INFORMATION THROUGH MARCH 2006.ALL THE BEST,BERNICE SHAHEEN 9th ANNUAL 2006 JACK G. SHAHEEN MASS COMMUNICATIONS SCHOLARSHIPPurpose: To recognize Arab-American students who excel in Media Studies.Amount: $1000 Eligibility: Juniors, Seniors, or Graduate Students. Must be attending college in the 2006-07 academic year. Must be majoring in Journalism, Radio, Television, and/or Film. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA and be a U.S. citizen of Arab heritage.Applicants will send the following to the ADC Research Institute: A one page statement stating you are a US citizen, explaining your goals, and why you merit the scholarship. Two letters of recommendation from Mass Communication professors. Copies of articles, videos, films, etc. Official academic transcripts including your GPA. Permanent home address, phone number, email address; address and phone number during the school year.Deadline: April 12, 2006 Send material to: ADC Research Institute 4201 Connecticut Avenue, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20008Scholarship will be presented at the ADC's 2006 National Convention.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Freedom comes to Palestinians of Gaza with burst of free speech radio stations
September 13, 2005
Press Release
A UNIQUE DAY FOR PALESTINE AND PALESTINIAN LOCAL RADIOS
On the day Israel ended its occupation of the Gaza Strip on 12 September, 16 private radio stations in the West Bank and Gaza came together under the banner of AMIN Internews to cover the withdrawal. This meant that from Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip to Jenin in the north of the West Bank and in an exceptional joint broadcast everyone was able to witness firsthand the events of the day.
The “united broadcast,’ as it has become to be known, had two main studios, one based at Al Manar radio station in Gaza and the other at Ajyal in Ramallah. From these sites listeners jointed in the celebration whilst hearing reactions from politicians, community leaders, experts and ordinary Palestinians.
Among the politicians that were interviewed, the Palestinian Prime Minister, Mr. Ahmad Qurie, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Information Dr. Nabil Shaath, Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Samir Hulaileh, and Head of the PLO Negotiations Department, Dr. Saeb Erekat.
In this company, the mayors of Rafah, Khan Younis, Dair al Balah and Jenin also had the opportunity to give their views.
The broadcast was not just a platform for the political leaders; AMIN Internews also brought on air several experts, analysts and economists including Timothy Rothermel, UNDP Special Representative in Palestine.
The stations themselves were delighted with the broadcast.
Talal Abu Rahmeh, Manar radio station in Gaza City who co-hosted the united broadcast said “it was one of the most successful experiences he has had since the opening of the station itself.” Mr. Abu Rahmeh went on to say, “We felt it brought us together as one family in this united broadcast.”
Zaid Shalbak, owner of the Jenin-based Al-Balad radio station, said the “coverage of the untied broadcast was not only excellent but comprehensive.” He went on to add: “This was an event that concerned all Palestinians. As individual radio stations, and due to the political problems we all face, we were not able to provide coverage of the event that our listeners deserved. However, due to the help of AMIN/ Internews, Al Balad and other stations succeeded beyond all our expectations.”
In Hebron, Ayman Qawasmi, owner of Al Hurriya radio said “the listeners felt that they are close to what’s going on in Gaza. People followed with interest what was happening there.” Ayman continued, “This coverage made the listeners feel that they are in Gaza not in Hebron.”
Ihab Barahmeh, who owns Qamar radio station in Jericho, believes that people welcomed this coverage. “Listeners told me this is what they want to hear often in the station,” he said. Moreover, he added, “It was great to feel that united efforts lead to great results and achievements.”
Commenting on the united broadcast, Khaled Abu Aker, Executive Director of AMIN/Internews, said “the success of this experience was a result of the full and strong cooperation of the stations and their conviction of the importance of uniting the broadcast for such an important occasion. They are convinced that joint work is much better than individual effort and that joint work produces great and remarkable results, as was the case.”
AMIN/ Internews is involved in training and development of local radio stations, and is part of an E.U funded project.
This training has already taken the form of helping and improving journalistic writing, reporting and broadcast skills. Alongside this AMIN/Internews has run courses on panel discussions in addition to technical training, the first of its kind in Palestine.
The united broadcast is the second such collective effort in Palestine managed and produce by AMIN/Internews. The first was during Palestinian Presidential Election Day on January 9, 2005.
END
Press Release
A UNIQUE DAY FOR PALESTINE AND PALESTINIAN LOCAL RADIOS
On the day Israel ended its occupation of the Gaza Strip on 12 September, 16 private radio stations in the West Bank and Gaza came together under the banner of AMIN Internews to cover the withdrawal. This meant that from Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip to Jenin in the north of the West Bank and in an exceptional joint broadcast everyone was able to witness firsthand the events of the day.
The “united broadcast,’ as it has become to be known, had two main studios, one based at Al Manar radio station in Gaza and the other at Ajyal in Ramallah. From these sites listeners jointed in the celebration whilst hearing reactions from politicians, community leaders, experts and ordinary Palestinians.
Among the politicians that were interviewed, the Palestinian Prime Minister, Mr. Ahmad Qurie, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Information Dr. Nabil Shaath, Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Samir Hulaileh, and Head of the PLO Negotiations Department, Dr. Saeb Erekat.
In this company, the mayors of Rafah, Khan Younis, Dair al Balah and Jenin also had the opportunity to give their views.
The broadcast was not just a platform for the political leaders; AMIN Internews also brought on air several experts, analysts and economists including Timothy Rothermel, UNDP Special Representative in Palestine.
The stations themselves were delighted with the broadcast.
Talal Abu Rahmeh, Manar radio station in Gaza City who co-hosted the united broadcast said “it was one of the most successful experiences he has had since the opening of the station itself.” Mr. Abu Rahmeh went on to say, “We felt it brought us together as one family in this united broadcast.”
Zaid Shalbak, owner of the Jenin-based Al-Balad radio station, said the “coverage of the untied broadcast was not only excellent but comprehensive.” He went on to add: “This was an event that concerned all Palestinians. As individual radio stations, and due to the political problems we all face, we were not able to provide coverage of the event that our listeners deserved. However, due to the help of AMIN/ Internews, Al Balad and other stations succeeded beyond all our expectations.”
In Hebron, Ayman Qawasmi, owner of Al Hurriya radio said “the listeners felt that they are close to what’s going on in Gaza. People followed with interest what was happening there.” Ayman continued, “This coverage made the listeners feel that they are in Gaza not in Hebron.”
Ihab Barahmeh, who owns Qamar radio station in Jericho, believes that people welcomed this coverage. “Listeners told me this is what they want to hear often in the station,” he said. Moreover, he added, “It was great to feel that united efforts lead to great results and achievements.”
Commenting on the united broadcast, Khaled Abu Aker, Executive Director of AMIN/Internews, said “the success of this experience was a result of the full and strong cooperation of the stations and their conviction of the importance of uniting the broadcast for such an important occasion. They are convinced that joint work is much better than individual effort and that joint work produces great and remarkable results, as was the case.”
AMIN/ Internews is involved in training and development of local radio stations, and is part of an E.U funded project.
This training has already taken the form of helping and improving journalistic writing, reporting and broadcast skills. Alongside this AMIN/Internews has run courses on panel discussions in addition to technical training, the first of its kind in Palestine.
The united broadcast is the second such collective effort in Palestine managed and produce by AMIN/Internews. The first was during Palestinian Presidential Election Day on January 9, 2005.
END
Arab-Jewish & Chicago comics perform for Hurricane Relief 9-13-05
"Clean Out Your Closet And Make Someone's Day,"
Improv Olympic
3541 N. Clark Street, Chicago
Tuesday Sept. 13 at 7:00-8:00pm.
Aaron Freeman, B.J. Jones, Sandy Shea Bogan, Ray Hanania & more Chicago area comics will be performing at a special comic concert
Admission: Gently Used/New Winter Clothing, Blankets, Linens, Etc.
OR
Donations of $20 or more
The clothing will be delivered directly to the Red Cross Welcoming Center on Racine and given directly to hurricane evacuees now living in Chicago. (Towels, blankets, sheets, gently-used clothing. Please place in a bag and drop off at the entrance of the club.)
We will provide non-alcoholic refreshments & food & clean up.
Contact Sandy Shea Bogan (847)-849-0559 or (818)-621-2878
END
Improv Olympic
3541 N. Clark Street, Chicago
Tuesday Sept. 13 at 7:00-8:00pm.
Aaron Freeman, B.J. Jones, Sandy Shea Bogan, Ray Hanania & more Chicago area comics will be performing at a special comic concert
Admission: Gently Used/New Winter Clothing, Blankets, Linens, Etc.
OR
Donations of $20 or more
The clothing will be delivered directly to the Red Cross Welcoming Center on Racine and given directly to hurricane evacuees now living in Chicago. (Towels, blankets, sheets, gently-used clothing. Please place in a bag and drop off at the entrance of the club.)
We will provide non-alcoholic refreshments & food & clean up.
Contact Sandy Shea Bogan (847)-849-0559 or (818)-621-2878
END
US helps preserve Muslim site in Jericho
USAID West Bank/Gaza
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9 September 2005
Public Affairs Office:
03-5114816
Email: alitvak@usaid.gov
www.usaid.gov/wbg
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT HELPS TO PROTECT AN ANCIENT ISLAMIC SITE
JERICHO, West Bank – The American people are funding a project to protect an important Islamic cultural heritage site known as Hisham’s Palace and to make it into a busy tourist center.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is contributing $1.3 million for the preservation of this rare archeological structure dating from the early Islamic period.
The one-year effort, implemented by ANERA’s Job Opportunities through Basic Services (JOBS), will improve the quality of life in the Jericho district, one of the least developed areas in the West Bank.
The construction of the different facilities at the site will alleviate high unemployment by creating about 250 jobs. A vast amount of the USAID contribution will be spent on wages used to pay for the preservation tasks.
The lasting economic gains for the 30,000 residents of Jericho are quite significant. The new tourist site is expected to attract 25,000 visitors annually bringing income to the municipality and countless business owners.
A professional team of architects and planners will protect and facilitate tourists’ access to the unique baths, mosques and colonnaded courts of Hisham’s Palace, which was a country residence of the Arab-Umayyad dynasty that ruled large areas stretching from India to France.
The mosaics and stucco ornaments, fine examples of early Islamic art, will be preserved under the supervision of Al-Quds University Institute of Islamic Archeology and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Hisham’s Palace holds one of the most beautiful mosaics in the word known as the Tree of Life.
The USAID funded project encourages the increasing development efforts in the West Bank and Gaza done under the newly elected democratic leadership.
USAID has spent more than $1.7 billion in the West Bank and Gaza to combat poverty, create jobs, improve education, build roads and water systems, construct and equip medical clinics, and promote good governance.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9 September 2005
Public Affairs Office:
03-5114816
Email: alitvak@usaid.gov
www.usaid.gov/wbg
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT HELPS TO PROTECT AN ANCIENT ISLAMIC SITE
JERICHO, West Bank – The American people are funding a project to protect an important Islamic cultural heritage site known as Hisham’s Palace and to make it into a busy tourist center.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is contributing $1.3 million for the preservation of this rare archeological structure dating from the early Islamic period.
The one-year effort, implemented by ANERA’s Job Opportunities through Basic Services (JOBS), will improve the quality of life in the Jericho district, one of the least developed areas in the West Bank.
The construction of the different facilities at the site will alleviate high unemployment by creating about 250 jobs. A vast amount of the USAID contribution will be spent on wages used to pay for the preservation tasks.
The lasting economic gains for the 30,000 residents of Jericho are quite significant. The new tourist site is expected to attract 25,000 visitors annually bringing income to the municipality and countless business owners.
A professional team of architects and planners will protect and facilitate tourists’ access to the unique baths, mosques and colonnaded courts of Hisham’s Palace, which was a country residence of the Arab-Umayyad dynasty that ruled large areas stretching from India to France.
The mosaics and stucco ornaments, fine examples of early Islamic art, will be preserved under the supervision of Al-Quds University Institute of Islamic Archeology and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Hisham’s Palace holds one of the most beautiful mosaics in the word known as the Tree of Life.
The USAID funded project encourages the increasing development efforts in the West Bank and Gaza done under the newly elected democratic leadership.
USAID has spent more than $1.7 billion in the West Bank and Gaza to combat poverty, create jobs, improve education, build roads and water systems, construct and equip medical clinics, and promote good governance.
Friday, September 09, 2005
Farouk Systems to donate to help rebuild hair care industry in Gulf Coast States ravaged by Katrina
Farouk Systems Extends Its Support To Hurricane Katrina Victims
Houston, TX – As our country and industry supported the victims of September 11, 2001, once again Farouk Systems comes to the forefront aiding the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Over $2,000,000 worth of products will be distributed to survivors, fellow hairdressers, salons and distributors to help rebuild lives and re-open businesses.
Farouk Shami, Founder and Chairman of the Board for Farouk Systems has personally experienced the effects of devastation. Tragedies, like Hurricane Katrina, not only destroy material items but also one’s life. As a result of this destruction hitting our shores, the Farouk Systems family joined together putting a relief package in place. In fact, Beverly Bernard-Morrison a partner of Mr. Farouk Shami and native of Louisiana returned to the corporate headquarters to head-up the entire relief effort. In addition, Miss Beverly coordinated thousands of gift bags for the Red Cross, the Houston Astrodome and countless shelters around Houston, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
Mr. Farouk Shami has devoted his entire career to the healthy and safety of his fellow hairdresser. His commitment and continued devotion will help salons re-open their doors by donating over $1,000,000 is products. This generosity even extends to his eleven (11) Armstrong McCall Distributor Stores also located in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama by donating $100,000 in product to each store. This will total over $2,000,000 to help our industry recover.
According to Mr. Shami, “It is vital for our industry to step up to the plate and help our industry recover from this overwhelming tragedy. I will not allow my fellow hairdressers to give up. They must know that we care and that we are behind them. Together, we can help rebuild their salons, rebuild their businesses and rebuild their faith in humanity.”
Kindest Regards,Janice R. McCaffertyJESSICA TAYLOR MEDIAPublic Relations Consultant forFarouk Systems, Inc.BioSilk, Silk Therapy, BadAzz, Hair Toys, CHI, Deep BrillianceWWW.FAROUK.COM(773) 736-9034 - Office(773) 220-8580 - Cell(773) 202-8074 - FaxThe Official Hair Care Sponsors for Miss USA, Miss Universe and Miss Teen USA 2005
Houston, TX – As our country and industry supported the victims of September 11, 2001, once again Farouk Systems comes to the forefront aiding the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Over $2,000,000 worth of products will be distributed to survivors, fellow hairdressers, salons and distributors to help rebuild lives and re-open businesses.
Farouk Shami, Founder and Chairman of the Board for Farouk Systems has personally experienced the effects of devastation. Tragedies, like Hurricane Katrina, not only destroy material items but also one’s life. As a result of this destruction hitting our shores, the Farouk Systems family joined together putting a relief package in place. In fact, Beverly Bernard-Morrison a partner of Mr. Farouk Shami and native of Louisiana returned to the corporate headquarters to head-up the entire relief effort. In addition, Miss Beverly coordinated thousands of gift bags for the Red Cross, the Houston Astrodome and countless shelters around Houston, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
Mr. Farouk Shami has devoted his entire career to the healthy and safety of his fellow hairdresser. His commitment and continued devotion will help salons re-open their doors by donating over $1,000,000 is products. This generosity even extends to his eleven (11) Armstrong McCall Distributor Stores also located in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama by donating $100,000 in product to each store. This will total over $2,000,000 to help our industry recover.
According to Mr. Shami, “It is vital for our industry to step up to the plate and help our industry recover from this overwhelming tragedy. I will not allow my fellow hairdressers to give up. They must know that we care and that we are behind them. Together, we can help rebuild their salons, rebuild their businesses and rebuild their faith in humanity.”
Kindest Regards,Janice R. McCaffertyJESSICA TAYLOR MEDIAPublic Relations Consultant forFarouk Systems, Inc.BioSilk, Silk Therapy, BadAzz, Hair Toys, CHI, Deep BrillianceWWW.FAROUK.COM(773) 736-9034 - Office(773) 220-8580 - Cell(773) 202-8074 - FaxThe Official Hair Care Sponsors for Miss USA, Miss Universe and Miss Teen USA 2005
Sunday, September 04, 2005
American Muslims Pledge $10 million for Hurricane Katrina relief at ISNA convention
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MUSLIMS PLEDGE $10 MILLION FOR HURRICANE RELIEF
Major American Islamic groups form task force to coordinate humanitarian aid
(CHICAGO, IL, 9/4/05) – A coalition of major American Islamic groups meeting at the annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) in Chicago today announced a pledge to raise $10 million in humanitarian relief for the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
The coalition also announced the formation of a Muslim Hurricane Relief Task Force (MHRTF) to coordinate the aid effort. MHRTF members include (in alphabetical order) Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Islamic Circle of North American (ICNA), Islamic Relief, ISNA, Kind Hearts, Life for Relief and Development, Muslim Alliance in North America (MANA), Muslim American Society (MAS), Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC), and Muslim Ummah of North American (MUNA).
Other groups who agree to the task force’s guidelines will be added as the relief efforts develop. MHRTF guidelines for collection and distribution of funds will focus on financial transparency and accountability as set forth in relevant government regulations and standards. No proselytizing of hurricane victims will be allowed by any member of the task force.
“It is a national and Islamic obligation to assist one’s neighbors when they are in need,” said ISNA Secretary General Sayyid Syeed. “The American Muslim community pledges to do its part in helping those Americans, of all faiths, who suffered such great losses in lives and property.”
Syeed said MHRTF will announce a comprehensive list of Muslim relief group that promise to adhere to the task force’s guidelines.
The initial MHRTF action plan includes an assessment of the humanitarian needs that can be met by American Muslim financial and human resources, as well as a similar assessment of the Islamic community’s ability to meet those needs.
More than $2 million in hurricane aid has already been disbursed by Islamic charities. Muslim relief workers are currently on the ground in Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, and Mississippi.
Other task force efforts will focus on evaluating the material and spiritual requirements of Gulf Coast Muslims.
There are an estimated seven million Muslims in the United States.
- END -
CONTACT: Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair-net.org
Adina Lekovic, 213,383-3443, communications@mpac.org
Mohamed Elsanousi, 317-839-1803, melsanousi@isna.net
-----
To SUBSCRIBE to or UNSUBSCRIBE from this list, go to:
http://cair.biglist.com/islam-infonet/
To reach the list moderator, send a message to: cair@cair-net.org
-----
CAIR
Council on American-Islamic Relations
453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20003
Tel: 202-488-8787, 202-744-7726
Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: cair@cair-net.org
URL: http://www.cair-net.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MUSLIMS PLEDGE $10 MILLION FOR HURRICANE RELIEF
Major American Islamic groups form task force to coordinate humanitarian aid
(CHICAGO, IL, 9/4/05) – A coalition of major American Islamic groups meeting at the annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) in Chicago today announced a pledge to raise $10 million in humanitarian relief for the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
The coalition also announced the formation of a Muslim Hurricane Relief Task Force (MHRTF) to coordinate the aid effort. MHRTF members include (in alphabetical order) Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Islamic Circle of North American (ICNA), Islamic Relief, ISNA, Kind Hearts, Life for Relief and Development, Muslim Alliance in North America (MANA), Muslim American Society (MAS), Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC), and Muslim Ummah of North American (MUNA).
Other groups who agree to the task force’s guidelines will be added as the relief efforts develop. MHRTF guidelines for collection and distribution of funds will focus on financial transparency and accountability as set forth in relevant government regulations and standards. No proselytizing of hurricane victims will be allowed by any member of the task force.
“It is a national and Islamic obligation to assist one’s neighbors when they are in need,” said ISNA Secretary General Sayyid Syeed. “The American Muslim community pledges to do its part in helping those Americans, of all faiths, who suffered such great losses in lives and property.”
Syeed said MHRTF will announce a comprehensive list of Muslim relief group that promise to adhere to the task force’s guidelines.
The initial MHRTF action plan includes an assessment of the humanitarian needs that can be met by American Muslim financial and human resources, as well as a similar assessment of the Islamic community’s ability to meet those needs.
More than $2 million in hurricane aid has already been disbursed by Islamic charities. Muslim relief workers are currently on the ground in Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, and Mississippi.
Other task force efforts will focus on evaluating the material and spiritual requirements of Gulf Coast Muslims.
There are an estimated seven million Muslims in the United States.
- END -
CONTACT: Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair-net.org
Adina Lekovic, 213,383-3443, communications@mpac.org
Mohamed Elsanousi, 317-839-1803, melsanousi@isna.net
-----
To SUBSCRIBE to or UNSUBSCRIBE from this list, go to:
http://cair.biglist.com/islam-infonet/
To reach the list moderator, send a message to: cair@cair-net.org
-----
CAIR
Council on American-Islamic Relations
453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20003
Tel: 202-488-8787, 202-744-7726
Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: cair@cair-net.org
URL: http://www.cair-net.org
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Saudi Arabia offers support for victims of HUrricane Katrina
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2005
CONTACT:
Saudi Information Office
202-337-4076
http://www.saudiembassy.net
KING ABDULLAH CALLS PRESIDENT BUSH TO EXTEND CONDOLENCES, OFFER SUPPORT
[Washington, DC] [August 31, 2005] – King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz today called U.S. President George W. Bush offering condolences to the victims of the disaster and the people of the United States from the government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the loss of life and destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina.
King Abdullah affirmed that Saudi Arabia stands with the United States as it faces this tragedy, and is ready to provide assistance to mitigate its effects and consequences.
On Monday, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Ali Al-Naimi stated that Saudi Arabia stands ready to immediately increase its crude oil production to 11 million barrels per day, and sustain that level to replace any market shortages resulting from the effects of Hurricane Katrina in order to stabilize world crude prices.
# # #
August 31, 2005
CONTACT:
Saudi Information Office
202-337-4076
http://www.saudiembassy.net
KING ABDULLAH CALLS PRESIDENT BUSH TO EXTEND CONDOLENCES, OFFER SUPPORT
[Washington, DC] [August 31, 2005] – King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz today called U.S. President George W. Bush offering condolences to the victims of the disaster and the people of the United States from the government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the loss of life and destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina.
King Abdullah affirmed that Saudi Arabia stands with the United States as it faces this tragedy, and is ready to provide assistance to mitigate its effects and consequences.
On Monday, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Ali Al-Naimi stated that Saudi Arabia stands ready to immediately increase its crude oil production to 11 million barrels per day, and sustain that level to replace any market shortages resulting from the effects of Hurricane Katrina in order to stabilize world crude prices.
# # #
California (Garden Grove) Arab American Festival Sept. 18
ADC Press Release:
Participate in Arab American Day Festival in California
Washington, DC, August 31--The Arab American Council will be holding its 10th Annual Arab American Day Festival in Village Green Park, California, to celebrate the community’s culture and contributions in the US and elsewhere.The three-day Festival will take place between Friday, September 16 and Sunday, September 18, and will include folkloric performances, amusement rides, Arabic food stands, and exhibits. For more information about the Festival, sponsorship, or how to register a booth please contact the Festival Director, Ahmad Al-Alam at (714) 758 3507 or visit www.aafestival.com
When:Friday September 16 (6pm-10pm) Saturday
September 17 (12am-10pm)Sunday
September 18 (12am-10pm)
What:Friday: folkloric performances, amusement rides
Saturday & Sunday: amusement rides, Arabic food stands, exhibits, and cultural performances
Where:Village Green Park 12762 Main Street, Garden Grove, CA92840
Participate in Arab American Day Festival in California
Washington, DC, August 31--The Arab American Council will be holding its 10th Annual Arab American Day Festival in Village Green Park, California, to celebrate the community’s culture and contributions in the US and elsewhere.The three-day Festival will take place between Friday, September 16 and Sunday, September 18, and will include folkloric performances, amusement rides, Arabic food stands, and exhibits. For more information about the Festival, sponsorship, or how to register a booth please contact the Festival Director, Ahmad Al-Alam at (714) 758 3507 or visit www.aafestival.com
When:Friday September 16 (6pm-10pm) Saturday
September 17 (12am-10pm)Sunday
September 18 (12am-10pm)
What:Friday: folkloric performances, amusement rides
Saturday & Sunday: amusement rides, Arabic food stands, exhibits, and cultural performances
Where:Village Green Park 12762 Main Street, Garden Grove, CA92840
CAIR urges Muslims and all faiths to support victims of Hurricane Katrina
MUSLIMS URGED TO AID HURRICANE VICTIMS -
CAIR asks Americans of all faiths to offer prayers of support
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/31/05) - The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today urged American Muslims and other people of conscience to offer whatever assistance they can to help alleviate the suffering of those impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
This week, Katrina left a trail of death and destruction along the Gulf Coast. Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco is declaring Wednesday a day of prayer.
In a statement, the Washington-based Islamic civil rights and advocacy group said:"We join Gov. Blanco in urging Americans of all faiths to pray for the victims of this unprecedented national disaster. As stated in the Quran, Islam's revealed text: 'Seek help with patience and prayer: for God is with those who are patient in adversity.' (2:153) We also offer condolences to the loved ones of those who died as a result of the hurricane's impact and urge everyone to contribute whatever they can, in both financial and human resources, to help alleviate the ongoing suffering."
CAIR asked mosques and Islamic centers throughout the Untied States to hold special blood drives, prayers and fundraising efforts for disaster relief.
CAIR asks Americans of all faiths to offer prayers of support
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/31/05) - The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today urged American Muslims and other people of conscience to offer whatever assistance they can to help alleviate the suffering of those impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
This week, Katrina left a trail of death and destruction along the Gulf Coast. Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco is declaring Wednesday a day of prayer.
In a statement, the Washington-based Islamic civil rights and advocacy group said:"We join Gov. Blanco in urging Americans of all faiths to pray for the victims of this unprecedented national disaster. As stated in the Quran, Islam's revealed text: 'Seek help with patience and prayer: for God is with those who are patient in adversity.' (2:153) We also offer condolences to the loved ones of those who died as a result of the hurricane's impact and urge everyone to contribute whatever they can, in both financial and human resources, to help alleviate the ongoing suffering."
CAIR asked mosques and Islamic centers throughout the Untied States to hold special blood drives, prayers and fundraising efforts for disaster relief.
Saudi expert to speak at series on US-Saudi relations Sept. 26-29, 2005 (Illinois Tour)
August 30, 2005
Contact: Sarah Silhan (773) 238-1086
For Immediate Release
Mary Morrissey (773) 238-3028 President, Council on American-Saudi Dialogue, and Former White House Aide, Les Janka, to speak on currentU.S. and Saudi Arabia relations
What: A discussion of the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the challenges which lie ahead for the Bush administration and its foreign policy.Who: Mr. Les Janka, President, Council on American-Saudi dialogue and former Pentagon and White House senior international affairs staff member to Presidents Nixon, Ford and Reagan.
When: A series of appearances beginning Monday, Sept. 26 and ending Thursday, Sept. 29.Monday, September 26 at 7 p.m. Peoria World Affairs Council Barrack’s Cater Inn, 1224 Pioneer Parkway, Peoria, Ill.
Tuesday, September 27 at 6 p.m. Rotary Club of Chicago, Rogers Park, Devon Bank, 6445 N. Western Ave., lower level.
Wednesday, September 28 at 7 a.m. Rotary Club of Central DuPage County Fairways Restaurant, Cantigny Golf Club, Mack Road, Wheaton, Ill.
Thursday, September 29 at noon, Chicago O’Hare Rotary Club The Great Escape Restaurant, 9540 W. Irving Park Road, Schiller Park, Ill.
*Mr. Janka will be available for interviews at each of these events, as well as between appearances. Please call Sarah Silhan to set a date and time to speak with Mr. Janka.
Background: Mr. Janka worked for the US Information Agency from 1964 to 1968, then served as the Assistant Dean of the School of Advanced International Studies until 1971, when he was appointed Special Assistant to Dr. Henry Kissinger on the National Security Council (NSC) at the White House. He became Senior NSC Staff Member for Legislative and Public Affairs in 1975. Moving to the Department of Defense in 1976, he served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Near Eastern, African and South Asian Affairs, and was awarded the Secretary of Defense Meritorious Civilian Service Medal in 1978.
Before joining the Reagan Administration, Mr. Janka worked as a consultant assisting major European corporations in marketing advanced military technology to the Pentagon. In 1983, after serving in the White House as Special Assistant to President Reagan and Deputy Press Secretary for Foreign Affairs, he joined Neill and Company, one of Washington’s premier foreign policy lobbying and public affairs consulting firms. As Executive Vice President, he led that firm’s extensive international political and trade advisory practice in the Middle East and Africa.
A native of California, Mr. Janka received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Redlands and his Master of Arts degree in International Economics and MiddleEastern Studies and Arabic from the Paul Nitze School of Advanced International Studies of the John Hopkins University.
###
Morrissey Public Affairs1917 W. 103rd Street, Ste. 5Chicago, IL 60643773-238-1086 direct773-550-5537 mobile
Contact: Sarah Silhan (773) 238-1086
For Immediate Release
Mary Morrissey (773) 238-3028 President, Council on American-Saudi Dialogue, and Former White House Aide, Les Janka, to speak on currentU.S. and Saudi Arabia relations
What: A discussion of the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the challenges which lie ahead for the Bush administration and its foreign policy.Who: Mr. Les Janka, President, Council on American-Saudi dialogue and former Pentagon and White House senior international affairs staff member to Presidents Nixon, Ford and Reagan.
When: A series of appearances beginning Monday, Sept. 26 and ending Thursday, Sept. 29.Monday, September 26 at 7 p.m. Peoria World Affairs Council Barrack’s Cater Inn, 1224 Pioneer Parkway, Peoria, Ill.
Tuesday, September 27 at 6 p.m. Rotary Club of Chicago, Rogers Park, Devon Bank, 6445 N. Western Ave., lower level.
Wednesday, September 28 at 7 a.m. Rotary Club of Central DuPage County Fairways Restaurant, Cantigny Golf Club, Mack Road, Wheaton, Ill.
Thursday, September 29 at noon, Chicago O’Hare Rotary Club The Great Escape Restaurant, 9540 W. Irving Park Road, Schiller Park, Ill.
*Mr. Janka will be available for interviews at each of these events, as well as between appearances. Please call Sarah Silhan to set a date and time to speak with Mr. Janka.
Background: Mr. Janka worked for the US Information Agency from 1964 to 1968, then served as the Assistant Dean of the School of Advanced International Studies until 1971, when he was appointed Special Assistant to Dr. Henry Kissinger on the National Security Council (NSC) at the White House. He became Senior NSC Staff Member for Legislative and Public Affairs in 1975. Moving to the Department of Defense in 1976, he served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Near Eastern, African and South Asian Affairs, and was awarded the Secretary of Defense Meritorious Civilian Service Medal in 1978.
Before joining the Reagan Administration, Mr. Janka worked as a consultant assisting major European corporations in marketing advanced military technology to the Pentagon. In 1983, after serving in the White House as Special Assistant to President Reagan and Deputy Press Secretary for Foreign Affairs, he joined Neill and Company, one of Washington’s premier foreign policy lobbying and public affairs consulting firms. As Executive Vice President, he led that firm’s extensive international political and trade advisory practice in the Middle East and Africa.
A native of California, Mr. Janka received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Redlands and his Master of Arts degree in International Economics and MiddleEastern Studies and Arabic from the Paul Nitze School of Advanced International Studies of the John Hopkins University.
###
Morrissey Public Affairs1917 W. 103rd Street, Ste. 5Chicago, IL 60643773-238-1086 direct773-550-5537 mobile
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Palestinian American Congress criticizes media coverage of Gaza evacuation
Press Release: The Palestinian American Congress
Israeli settlers evacuation from occupied Gaza and the Poor Media Coverageof the Gaza "Disengagement"
Media Contacts:Marwan El-Masri 617-694-3597 melmasri@earthlink.net
Dr. Mazin Qumsiyeh, PhD Tel 203-676-2986 qumsi001@yahoo.com
New York 8/20/05-The Palestinian American Congress is appalled at the media coverage of the Israeli withdrawal from the Palestinian Gaza Strip. The media is projecting the evacuation of Jewish settlers as an Israeli sacrifice filled with emotional scenes. No such coverage wasaccorded the destruction (with no compensation) of thousands of Palestinian homes. We urge the media to include a better and widerperspective beyond the hype of removing the Gaza settlers who representless than 2% of colonial settlers in the West Bank (including East Jerusalem).
According to International Law, all 450,000 settlers (half in East Jerusalem) are illegal and have been illegal for the past 38years. The media fails to mention the plight and the suffering of thePalestinians under Israeli occupation, the expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank at an alarming rate, the continued confiscationof Palestinian land in East Jerusalem, and the continued constructionof the separation wall on Palestinian land.
"While the evacuation of Israeli presence from any portion of theoccupied territories is welcomed, it must be part of a negotiated planwith the Palestinians as dictated by the U.S. envisioned road map toencompass a future contiguous Palestinian state" said Sameer Tuffaha, Chairman of the Board of the Palestinian American Congress.
We call on the US and the International Community to insist that Israelcomply with International Law and International Human Rights standards.PAC has available a list of speakers in all major US cities and inseveral states who can provide a Palestinian perspective on issues likethe disengagement smokescreen, the wall being built on Palestinianland, settlements in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and refugees.(resources below)
The Palestinian American Congress (PAC)P.O.Box 2302, Astoria, New York 11102
http://www.pac-national.org/
Israeli settlers evacuation from occupied Gaza and the Poor Media Coverageof the Gaza "Disengagement"
Media Contacts:Marwan El-Masri 617-694-3597 melmasri@earthlink.net
Dr. Mazin Qumsiyeh, PhD Tel 203-676-2986 qumsi001@yahoo.com
New York 8/20/05-The Palestinian American Congress is appalled at the media coverage of the Israeli withdrawal from the Palestinian Gaza Strip. The media is projecting the evacuation of Jewish settlers as an Israeli sacrifice filled with emotional scenes. No such coverage wasaccorded the destruction (with no compensation) of thousands of Palestinian homes. We urge the media to include a better and widerperspective beyond the hype of removing the Gaza settlers who representless than 2% of colonial settlers in the West Bank (including East Jerusalem).
According to International Law, all 450,000 settlers (half in East Jerusalem) are illegal and have been illegal for the past 38years. The media fails to mention the plight and the suffering of thePalestinians under Israeli occupation, the expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank at an alarming rate, the continued confiscationof Palestinian land in East Jerusalem, and the continued constructionof the separation wall on Palestinian land.
"While the evacuation of Israeli presence from any portion of theoccupied territories is welcomed, it must be part of a negotiated planwith the Palestinians as dictated by the U.S. envisioned road map toencompass a future contiguous Palestinian state" said Sameer Tuffaha, Chairman of the Board of the Palestinian American Congress.
We call on the US and the International Community to insist that Israelcomply with International Law and International Human Rights standards.PAC has available a list of speakers in all major US cities and inseveral states who can provide a Palestinian perspective on issues likethe disengagement smokescreen, the wall being built on Palestinianland, settlements in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and refugees.(resources below)
The Palestinian American Congress (PAC)P.O.Box 2302, Astoria, New York 11102
http://www.pac-national.org/
Monday, August 22, 2005
Racist Washington DC radio host fired for anti-Islamic remarks
DC RADIO HOST FIRED OVER ANTI-ISLAM REMARKSContact WMAL to show support for its decision(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/22/05) - The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today applauded a Washington, D.C., radio station's decision to fire a talk show host who stated repeatedly that "Islam is a terrorist organization."The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) said media reports indicate that WMAL-AM fired host Michael Graham last Friday after he refused to retract his anti-Islam statements, make an on-air apology and conduct additional outreach efforts to the Muslim community and others offended by his words.The controversy began last month when Graham stated: 1. "Islam is a terrorist organization." 2. "Islam is at war with America." 3. "The problem is not extremism. The problem is Islam." 4. "We are at war with a terrorist organization named Islam." Other listeners said that Graham even encouraged a public "backlash" against Muslims. (Graham later claimed he meant a backlash of social pressure, not violent attacks on Muslims.)In response, CAIR initiated a public campaign against WMAL and the station's advertisers after receiving complaints from listeners who heard Graham make those anti-Islam remarks. While WMAL initially stood behind Graham, it changed its position after hundreds of people responded to the group's action alerts by contacting the station and its sponsors."Just as Michael Graham has the right to hold bigoted views, so, too, does our society have the right to live free of hatred and incitement," said CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad. "We are saddened that Michael Graham would not take responsibility for his hate-filled words, but we do welcome WMAL's action as a step toward reducing the level of anti-Muslim bigotry on our nation's airwaves."Awad thanked the local Metropolitan-D.C. Muslim community, interfaith leaders and the many people in America and worldwide who contacted WMAL and its advertisers to express their concerns over Graham's bigoted comments.
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUESTED:1. CONTACT WMAL to thank the station for making Michael Graham's suspension permanent. CONTACT: Mr. Chris Berry, President & General Manager (202-895-2333), and Mr. Randall Bloomquist (202-895-2327), Program Director, WMAL, 4400 Jenifer Street NW, Washington DC, 20015. Switchboard: 202-686-3100 FAX: (202) 537-0009 (To be on a WMAL talk show, call 202-432-WMAL, toll free 888-630-WMAL.)
E-MAIL: randall.bloomquist@abc.com,
ernie.fears@abc.com,
chris.j.berry@abc.com
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUESTED:1. CONTACT WMAL to thank the station for making Michael Graham's suspension permanent. CONTACT: Mr. Chris Berry, President & General Manager (202-895-2333), and Mr. Randall Bloomquist (202-895-2327), Program Director, WMAL, 4400 Jenifer Street NW, Washington DC, 20015. Switchboard: 202-686-3100 FAX: (202) 537-0009 (To be on a WMAL talk show, call 202-432-WMAL, toll free 888-630-WMAL.)
E-MAIL: randall.bloomquist@abc.com,
ernie.fears@abc.com,
chris.j.berry@abc.com
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
AAI Foundation event celebrates Arab American achievements July 29
Washington, DC Foundation Honors Farmington Hills Councilman John Akouri
-AAIF Celebration fetes Michigan Arab Americans in Public Life-
(WASHINGTON, DC) – The Arab American Institute Foundation (AAIF) will pay tribute to Farmington Hills City Councilman John Akouri - who has made a difference in civic and community life in Michigan this Friday, July 29th from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the newly opened Arab American National Museum located at 13624 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn, Michigan.
"As AAI celebrates two decades of service, we are pleased to honor John Akouri who has dedicated his career to public service and has truly made a difference in his community," said AAI National Field Director Abdallah Al-Zuabi. "We hope this celebration will encourage participation in the upcoming elections and inspire a new generation of Arab Americans to run for public office."
Akouri will join will join other leading Arab American Public Officials throughout Michigan, who will be honored for their significant contributions to the civic and political empowerment of the Arab American community. These include Dearborn Councilman Bob Abraham, 3rd Circuit Court Judge David Allen, State Representative Barbara Farrah, Oakland County Probate Judge Linda Saoud Hallmark, State Board of Education Member Marianne Yared McGuire, Dearborn Councilwoman Suzanne Sareini, Michigan Women's Commission, Office of Governor, Sally Shaheen Joseph, and Oak Park Councilman Kirk Yousif. Michigan is home to 490,000 Arab Americans living in 82 of the state’s 83 counties.
"AAI is a respected organization that is mobilizing voters across the nation to stand up and be counted" Akouri said. "It is always humbling to be recognized for the achievements and contributions one makes while in office. As I thank AAI for saluting these accomplishments, I am honored to receive this tribute and look forward to continue working with AAI in the future."
Akouri began serving on Capitol Hill as Washington Press Secretary and Senior Advisor to US Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) in 1999. Akouri is a longtime member of the DC-based AAI National Policy Council, and was featured as a distinguished panelist at the 2003 AAI National Leadership Conference and at last years Arab American Anti-Discrimination Committee Convention in Washington, DC. Akouri also led Republican efforts in 2004 as Co-Chairman of the Bush/Cheney Re-Election Campaign in Oakland County. Most recently he participated along with Arab League Secretary-General Amr Mousa and dignitaries from around the world in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening of the long awaited ACCESS Arab American National Museum in Dearborn.
For a complete Bio and Photo of John Akouri, visit
http://akouri.blogspot.com/
2002_12_29_akouri_archive.html
For more information on Michigan’s Arab Americans, visit
http://www.aaiusa.org/demographics/MIdemographics.pdf
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 26, 2005
CONTACT: aalzuabi@aaiusa.org or 202.494.9858
-END-
-AAIF Celebration fetes Michigan Arab Americans in Public Life-
(WASHINGTON, DC) – The Arab American Institute Foundation (AAIF) will pay tribute to Farmington Hills City Councilman John Akouri - who has made a difference in civic and community life in Michigan this Friday, July 29th from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the newly opened Arab American National Museum located at 13624 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn, Michigan.
"As AAI celebrates two decades of service, we are pleased to honor John Akouri who has dedicated his career to public service and has truly made a difference in his community," said AAI National Field Director Abdallah Al-Zuabi. "We hope this celebration will encourage participation in the upcoming elections and inspire a new generation of Arab Americans to run for public office."
Akouri will join will join other leading Arab American Public Officials throughout Michigan, who will be honored for their significant contributions to the civic and political empowerment of the Arab American community. These include Dearborn Councilman Bob Abraham, 3rd Circuit Court Judge David Allen, State Representative Barbara Farrah, Oakland County Probate Judge Linda Saoud Hallmark, State Board of Education Member Marianne Yared McGuire, Dearborn Councilwoman Suzanne Sareini, Michigan Women's Commission, Office of Governor, Sally Shaheen Joseph, and Oak Park Councilman Kirk Yousif. Michigan is home to 490,000 Arab Americans living in 82 of the state’s 83 counties.
"AAI is a respected organization that is mobilizing voters across the nation to stand up and be counted" Akouri said. "It is always humbling to be recognized for the achievements and contributions one makes while in office. As I thank AAI for saluting these accomplishments, I am honored to receive this tribute and look forward to continue working with AAI in the future."
Akouri began serving on Capitol Hill as Washington Press Secretary and Senior Advisor to US Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) in 1999. Akouri is a longtime member of the DC-based AAI National Policy Council, and was featured as a distinguished panelist at the 2003 AAI National Leadership Conference and at last years Arab American Anti-Discrimination Committee Convention in Washington, DC. Akouri also led Republican efforts in 2004 as Co-Chairman of the Bush/Cheney Re-Election Campaign in Oakland County. Most recently he participated along with Arab League Secretary-General Amr Mousa and dignitaries from around the world in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening of the long awaited ACCESS Arab American National Museum in Dearborn.
For a complete Bio and Photo of John Akouri, visit
http://akouri.blogspot.com/
2002_12_29_akouri_archive.html
For more information on Michigan’s Arab Americans, visit
http://www.aaiusa.org/demographics/MIdemographics.pdf
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 26, 2005
CONTACT: aalzuabi@aaiusa.org or 202.494.9858
-END-
Thursday, July 21, 2005
Egyptian candidate seeks international election monitors
Press Release For Immediate Release
Egypt?s Presidential Candidate Calls for International Monitors for elections
Chicago, Illinois, USA (7/20/05) Author turned politician, Aladdin Elaasar who announced his candidacy for president of Egypt recently called on the international community today to send international monitors for the upcoming presidential elections in September in Egypt. ?In spite of the several attempts of presidential candidates for Egypt to get their names on the ballot, the Egyptian government still refuses to acknowledge any of them. If Mr. Mubarak is really serious about change in Egypt and giving democracy a chance, why does not he allow other candidates to run?, Elaasar said.
The Egyptian government runs most of the media outlets which gives Mr. Mubarak an edge over any other candidate. Mr. Mubarak uses public funds and resources for his campaign. He passed a law recently through the People?s Assembly, which the overwhelming majority of its members belong to the NDP- Mr. Mubarak?s party. This law prohibits any candidate from running without getting the endorsement of 250 members of MR. Mubarak?s party! Mr. Mubarak holds all the power in his hands. His government will be running the elections and counting the votes through his Minster of the interior! Which is unlawful? Elaasar said.
?What Mr. Mubarak is afraid of? Why does he feel threatened by other candidates and myself? If he is so sure of his popularity, why does not he open the door for democracy for real, instead of lip service? It seems that Mr. Mubarak?s government is afraid of change and competition and they?re finding every excuse not to include any other candidate on the ballot. The Egyptian constitution gives the right to every Egyptian, man or woman, to run for the office of president of Egypt. The attempts to bar Egyptian expatriates and those with dual citizenship from running is unconstitutional. I call on Mr. Muarak to include all candidates on the ballot. I also call on him to release MR. Ayman Nour and all other political prisoners in Egypt immediately and end the state of the Emergency Laws?, Elaasar, the author of a book titled ?Silent Victims?, demanded today.
END-
For more info, please contact:
Aladdin Elaasar,
President and Founder of
Committee for Freedom and Democracy in Egypt
1015 Higgins Quarters, Suite 115
Hoffman Estates,
IL 60194
Tel 847 310-0342847 668-4206
Email: omaraladin@aol.com
http://cfde.blogspot.com/2005/07/
committee-for-freedom-democracy-in.html
Egypt?s Presidential Candidate Calls for International Monitors for elections
Chicago, Illinois, USA (7/20/05) Author turned politician, Aladdin Elaasar who announced his candidacy for president of Egypt recently called on the international community today to send international monitors for the upcoming presidential elections in September in Egypt. ?In spite of the several attempts of presidential candidates for Egypt to get their names on the ballot, the Egyptian government still refuses to acknowledge any of them. If Mr. Mubarak is really serious about change in Egypt and giving democracy a chance, why does not he allow other candidates to run?, Elaasar said.
The Egyptian government runs most of the media outlets which gives Mr. Mubarak an edge over any other candidate. Mr. Mubarak uses public funds and resources for his campaign. He passed a law recently through the People?s Assembly, which the overwhelming majority of its members belong to the NDP- Mr. Mubarak?s party. This law prohibits any candidate from running without getting the endorsement of 250 members of MR. Mubarak?s party! Mr. Mubarak holds all the power in his hands. His government will be running the elections and counting the votes through his Minster of the interior! Which is unlawful? Elaasar said.
?What Mr. Mubarak is afraid of? Why does he feel threatened by other candidates and myself? If he is so sure of his popularity, why does not he open the door for democracy for real, instead of lip service? It seems that Mr. Mubarak?s government is afraid of change and competition and they?re finding every excuse not to include any other candidate on the ballot. The Egyptian constitution gives the right to every Egyptian, man or woman, to run for the office of president of Egypt. The attempts to bar Egyptian expatriates and those with dual citizenship from running is unconstitutional. I call on Mr. Muarak to include all candidates on the ballot. I also call on him to release MR. Ayman Nour and all other political prisoners in Egypt immediately and end the state of the Emergency Laws?, Elaasar, the author of a book titled ?Silent Victims?, demanded today.
END-
For more info, please contact:
Aladdin Elaasar,
President and Founder of
Committee for Freedom and Democracy in Egypt
1015 Higgins Quarters, Suite 115
Hoffman Estates,
IL 60194
Tel 847 310-0342847 668-4206
Email: omaraladin@aol.com
http://cfde.blogspot.com/2005/07/
committee-for-freedom-democracy-in.html
Sunday, July 17, 2005
Il SOciety of Professional Engineers to hold conference in Chicago
ISPE 2005 2005 ANNUAL CONFERENCE - JULY 29 & 30, 2005 - ON-LINE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
for information go to:
http://www.illinoisengineer.com/2005conference.asp
LOTS OF PDHS - 12 IN 2 DAYS!!!
WYNDHAM HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: BILL RANCIC OF TV'S "THE APPRENTICE"
3000 WARRENVILLE ROAD, LISLE, ILLINOIS
630-505-1000
Map to Conference Site
Conference Site Layout
Mark your calendars for the 2005 Annual Conference! ISPE again offers 12 professional development hours, lively entertainment, and fellowship among engineers over the 2 1/2 day event. Conveniently located off I-88 at Naperville Road, the Wyndham Lisle serves as an ideal conference venue in Chicago's western suburbs.Bring your co-workers, your spouse and your children for our fun and educational event. There will be plenty of activities in the area for all ages while PEs participate in engaging professional development sessions.
PLEASE NOTE IMPORTANT DATES:
Regular Registration: July 1, 2005 - July 20,2005
Registration Closes: July 20, 2005, 5 PM
NO REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER CLOSE OF BUSINESS JULY 20.
ISPE PAC Golf Outing: July 28, 2005
ISPE Annual Conference: July 29-30, 2005
2005 CONFERNCE INFORMATION
http://www.illinoisengineer.com/2005conference.asp
Sponsorship/Exhibit Information
ISPE PAC Golf Outing Information - Thursday, July 28, 2005
Schedule at a Glance
Education Sessions
Special Events
Guest Activities
Conference Fees
Hotel Information
Registration
First Time Attendee "Tex" Scholarship
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Thursday, July 28, 20051P - 6:30 P
PAC Golf Outing, Klein Creek Golf Club
6:30 P - 9P PAC BBQ,
Klein Creek Golf Club
5:00 P - 8 P Pre-Conference Packet Pick-up, Wyndham
6 P - ?? Hospitality Room Open, Wyndham
Friday, July 29, 2005
7 A Conference Packet Pick-Up
8 A Welcome
8:30 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
10:00 A Guest Activity - Morton Arboretum Tram Tour & Luncheon
10:30 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
12:30 P Legislative Luncheon
2:15 P Education Sessions (3 PDHs)
5:30 P Sponsor/New Engineer Reception
All Day - Exhibits Open
All Day - Hospitality Room Open
Saturday, July 30, 2005
7:30 A Awards Breakfast
9:00 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
10:00 A Guest Activity - Naper Settlement or DuPage Children's Museum Visit
11:00 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
12:45 P Keynote Luncheon - Bill Rancic from TV's "The Apprentice"
2:15 P Education Sessions (1 PDH)
3:30 P ISPE Annual Business Meeting
6:30 P Installation Banquet
8:30 P Casino Night & Raffle
All Day - Hospitality Room Open
EDUCATION SESSIONS
Friday, July 29, 2005
8:30 A - 10:15 A (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 1 - Successful Women in Engineering (2 PDHs) / Session 2 - Workplace Labor Issues (2PDHs) / Session 3 - Rebuilding Iraq (2 PDHs)
10:30 A - 12:15 P (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 4 - Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology Primer (2 PDHs) / Session 5 - LRFD - Not just a 4-Letter Word (2 PDHs) This session brings you up to speed with the basics of Load & Resistance Factor Design. / Session 6 - Contract Management, Risk Allocation by Design (2 PDHs)
2:15 P - 4:15 P (You will be asked to Select 7 & 10, 8 & 10, or 9): Session 7 - An Insight into Some of Illinois' Major Projects - Project Profiles (2 PDHs) / Session 8 - Context Sensitive Solutions (2 PDHs) / Session 9 - Fermi Lab Tour 2:15 P - 5:30 P (Limited to 50 registrants only - 3 PDHs)
4:30 P - 5:30 P (May not be Selected if Attending Session 9 - Fermi Lab Tour): Session 10 - Public Construction & Transportation Panel (1 PDH)
Saturday, July 30, 2005
9:00 A - 10:45 A (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 11 - Introduction to the LEED Green Building Program (2 PDHs) / Session 12 - Recycled Plastics on the Molecular Level (2 PDHs) / Session 13 - Lean Construction I (2 PDHs)
11:00 A - 12:45 P (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 14 - Understanding HEC-RAS Design Software (2 PDHs) / Session 15 - Uninterruptable Power Supplies/Power Quality (2 PDHs) / Session 16 - Lean Construction II (2 PDHs)
2:15 P - 3:15 P (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 17 - HEC-RAS Design Software: Your Questions Answered (1 PDH) / Session 18 - Why Machines Fail - ME/EE Forensic Engineering (1 PDH) / Session 19 - Directional Boring (1 PDH)
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exhibits Friday All Day
Be sure to check out our firms, suppliers and other vendors show casing in the exhibit area on Friday. Visit with them and earn ISPE Bucks to use for casino night or raffle prize entries!
Legislative Luncheon Friday Noon
Area legislators have been invited to share the latest transportation funding and other issues affecting the practice of engineering.
New PE and Sponsor Reception Friday Evening
Meet our newest engineers, visit with our sponsors and exhibitors, and network with colleagues and friends during this reception with cocktails and heavy hors d'oeuvres.
Awards Breakfast Saturday Morning
ISPE honors outstanding members and firms, scholarship recipients, and Order of the Engineer Inductees with the 2005 ISPE Awards Breakfast.
Keynote Luncheon Saturday Noon
Gain insights from TV's "The Apprentice" - Bill Rancic - whose post TV project for Donald Trump was to oversee the development of the Trump Towers in Chicago.
ISPE Annual Business Meeting Saturday Afternoon
All members are encouraged to attend as we kick off the new Society year. Share your recommendations for YOUR professional society today.
2005 Installation Banquet & Casino Night Saturday Evening
Come celebrate as we swear in the 2005-2006 ISPE Officers and present our top Society awards. Then try your hand at Casino Night and enter our raffle for great prizes donated by the ISPE Chapters.
ISPE Hospitality Room Open Throughout the Conference
Relax, enjoy refreshments, play cards and visit with fellow ISPE members during breaks, downtime and the evening hours in the Hospitality Room.
GUEST ACTIVITIES
Morton Arboretum Tram Tour and Luncheon- $25/person Friday 10 A - 2 P
Naper Settlement Museum Village OR DuPage Children's Museum - $10/person Saturday 10 A - 12 P Guests will have the opportunity to choose to visit the Naper Settlement Museum Village or the DuPage Children's Museum, both conveniently located in near downtown Naperville.
CONFERENCE FEES
Regular Rates* (Registrations Received from July 1, 2005 - July 20, 2005)**
$275 ISPE Member
$400 Non-Member
$125 Current Student or Recent Graduates (BS or BA in last 5 years)
Guest Events & Add-Ons (Add Guest Events or Guest Meals to Your Registration a la cart)
$25 Friday - Morton Arboretum Tram Tour & Luncheon
$25 Friday - Legislative Lunch
$25 Friday - New PE & Sponsor Reception
$18 Saturday - Awards Breakfast
$10 Saturday - Naper Settlement or DuPage Children's Museum Visits
$25 Saturday - Keynote Luncheon
$75 Saturday - Installation Banquet & Casino Night
* Includes education sessions and all meals and events July 29 & 30. Does not include lodging or any ISPE PAC events.
** All registrations must be received by the ISPE office by 5PM CT, July 20, 2005. No registrations will be accepted after that time.
Not an ISPE member? Send us an e-mail with your contact information and we will send you membership materials today!
REGISTRATION: There are 3 ways to Register:
(1) Register on-line* NOW with your Visa or Master Card. (On-line registration is now OPEN!)
(2) Download and print a paper registration to mail to ISPE at 600 South Second Street, Suite 403, Springfield, IL 62704 with your check, Visa or Master Card number.
(3) Download and print a paper registration to fax to ISPE at 217-528-6545 with your Visa or Master Card number.
for more information go to: http://www.illinoisengineer.com/2005conference.asp
for information go to:
http://www.illinoisengineer.com/2005conference.asp
LOTS OF PDHS - 12 IN 2 DAYS!!!
WYNDHAM HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: BILL RANCIC OF TV'S "THE APPRENTICE"
3000 WARRENVILLE ROAD, LISLE, ILLINOIS
630-505-1000
Map to Conference Site
Conference Site Layout
Mark your calendars for the 2005 Annual Conference! ISPE again offers 12 professional development hours, lively entertainment, and fellowship among engineers over the 2 1/2 day event. Conveniently located off I-88 at Naperville Road, the Wyndham Lisle serves as an ideal conference venue in Chicago's western suburbs.Bring your co-workers, your spouse and your children for our fun and educational event. There will be plenty of activities in the area for all ages while PEs participate in engaging professional development sessions.
PLEASE NOTE IMPORTANT DATES:
Regular Registration: July 1, 2005 - July 20,2005
Registration Closes: July 20, 2005, 5 PM
NO REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER CLOSE OF BUSINESS JULY 20.
ISPE PAC Golf Outing: July 28, 2005
ISPE Annual Conference: July 29-30, 2005
2005 CONFERNCE INFORMATION
http://www.illinoisengineer.com/2005conference.asp
Sponsorship/Exhibit Information
ISPE PAC Golf Outing Information - Thursday, July 28, 2005
Schedule at a Glance
Education Sessions
Special Events
Guest Activities
Conference Fees
Hotel Information
Registration
First Time Attendee "Tex" Scholarship
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Thursday, July 28, 20051P - 6:30 P
PAC Golf Outing, Klein Creek Golf Club
6:30 P - 9P PAC BBQ,
Klein Creek Golf Club
5:00 P - 8 P Pre-Conference Packet Pick-up, Wyndham
6 P - ?? Hospitality Room Open, Wyndham
Friday, July 29, 2005
7 A Conference Packet Pick-Up
8 A Welcome
8:30 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
10:00 A Guest Activity - Morton Arboretum Tram Tour & Luncheon
10:30 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
12:30 P Legislative Luncheon
2:15 P Education Sessions (3 PDHs)
5:30 P Sponsor/New Engineer Reception
All Day - Exhibits Open
All Day - Hospitality Room Open
Saturday, July 30, 2005
7:30 A Awards Breakfast
9:00 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
10:00 A Guest Activity - Naper Settlement or DuPage Children's Museum Visit
11:00 A Education Sessions (2 PDHs)
12:45 P Keynote Luncheon - Bill Rancic from TV's "The Apprentice"
2:15 P Education Sessions (1 PDH)
3:30 P ISPE Annual Business Meeting
6:30 P Installation Banquet
8:30 P Casino Night & Raffle
All Day - Hospitality Room Open
EDUCATION SESSIONS
Friday, July 29, 2005
8:30 A - 10:15 A (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 1 - Successful Women in Engineering (2 PDHs) / Session 2 - Workplace Labor Issues (2PDHs) / Session 3 - Rebuilding Iraq (2 PDHs)
10:30 A - 12:15 P (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 4 - Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology Primer (2 PDHs) / Session 5 - LRFD - Not just a 4-Letter Word (2 PDHs) This session brings you up to speed with the basics of Load & Resistance Factor Design. / Session 6 - Contract Management, Risk Allocation by Design (2 PDHs)
2:15 P - 4:15 P (You will be asked to Select 7 & 10, 8 & 10, or 9): Session 7 - An Insight into Some of Illinois' Major Projects - Project Profiles (2 PDHs) / Session 8 - Context Sensitive Solutions (2 PDHs) / Session 9 - Fermi Lab Tour 2:15 P - 5:30 P (Limited to 50 registrants only - 3 PDHs)
4:30 P - 5:30 P (May not be Selected if Attending Session 9 - Fermi Lab Tour): Session 10 - Public Construction & Transportation Panel (1 PDH)
Saturday, July 30, 2005
9:00 A - 10:45 A (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 11 - Introduction to the LEED Green Building Program (2 PDHs) / Session 12 - Recycled Plastics on the Molecular Level (2 PDHs) / Session 13 - Lean Construction I (2 PDHs)
11:00 A - 12:45 P (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 14 - Understanding HEC-RAS Design Software (2 PDHs) / Session 15 - Uninterruptable Power Supplies/Power Quality (2 PDHs) / Session 16 - Lean Construction II (2 PDHs)
2:15 P - 3:15 P (You will be asked to Select One Session): Session 17 - HEC-RAS Design Software: Your Questions Answered (1 PDH) / Session 18 - Why Machines Fail - ME/EE Forensic Engineering (1 PDH) / Session 19 - Directional Boring (1 PDH)
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exhibits Friday All Day
Be sure to check out our firms, suppliers and other vendors show casing in the exhibit area on Friday. Visit with them and earn ISPE Bucks to use for casino night or raffle prize entries!
Legislative Luncheon Friday Noon
Area legislators have been invited to share the latest transportation funding and other issues affecting the practice of engineering.
New PE and Sponsor Reception Friday Evening
Meet our newest engineers, visit with our sponsors and exhibitors, and network with colleagues and friends during this reception with cocktails and heavy hors d'oeuvres.
Awards Breakfast Saturday Morning
ISPE honors outstanding members and firms, scholarship recipients, and Order of the Engineer Inductees with the 2005 ISPE Awards Breakfast.
Keynote Luncheon Saturday Noon
Gain insights from TV's "The Apprentice" - Bill Rancic - whose post TV project for Donald Trump was to oversee the development of the Trump Towers in Chicago.
ISPE Annual Business Meeting Saturday Afternoon
All members are encouraged to attend as we kick off the new Society year. Share your recommendations for YOUR professional society today.
2005 Installation Banquet & Casino Night Saturday Evening
Come celebrate as we swear in the 2005-2006 ISPE Officers and present our top Society awards. Then try your hand at Casino Night and enter our raffle for great prizes donated by the ISPE Chapters.
ISPE Hospitality Room Open Throughout the Conference
Relax, enjoy refreshments, play cards and visit with fellow ISPE members during breaks, downtime and the evening hours in the Hospitality Room.
GUEST ACTIVITIES
Morton Arboretum Tram Tour and Luncheon- $25/person Friday 10 A - 2 P
Naper Settlement Museum Village OR DuPage Children's Museum - $10/person Saturday 10 A - 12 P Guests will have the opportunity to choose to visit the Naper Settlement Museum Village or the DuPage Children's Museum, both conveniently located in near downtown Naperville.
CONFERENCE FEES
Regular Rates* (Registrations Received from July 1, 2005 - July 20, 2005)**
$275 ISPE Member
$400 Non-Member
$125 Current Student or Recent Graduates (BS or BA in last 5 years)
Guest Events & Add-Ons (Add Guest Events or Guest Meals to Your Registration a la cart)
$25 Friday - Morton Arboretum Tram Tour & Luncheon
$25 Friday - Legislative Lunch
$25 Friday - New PE & Sponsor Reception
$18 Saturday - Awards Breakfast
$10 Saturday - Naper Settlement or DuPage Children's Museum Visits
$25 Saturday - Keynote Luncheon
$75 Saturday - Installation Banquet & Casino Night
* Includes education sessions and all meals and events July 29 & 30. Does not include lodging or any ISPE PAC events.
** All registrations must be received by the ISPE office by 5PM CT, July 20, 2005. No registrations will be accepted after that time.
Not an ISPE member? Send us an e-mail with your contact information and we will send you membership materials today!
REGISTRATION: There are 3 ways to Register:
(1) Register on-line* NOW with your Visa or Master Card. (On-line registration is now OPEN!)
(2) Download and print a paper registration to mail to ISPE at 600 South Second Street, Suite 403, Springfield, IL 62704 with your check, Visa or Master Card number.
(3) Download and print a paper registration to fax to ISPE at 217-528-6545 with your Visa or Master Card number.
for more information go to: http://www.illinoisengineer.com/2005conference.asp
Friday, July 15, 2005
Arab Chicago History book to be published August 21
Book on Chicago's Arab history be released August 21
(EDITORS NOTE: a picture of one a grocery store operated by Palestinian Ahmad Ziyad, founder of Ziyad Brothers Importing, who came to Chicago in 1961 can be provided if requested. Ray Hanania, rayhanania@aol.com.)
Only a few books have been published that attempt to document the history of Arab Americans in America. Hanania's Arabs of Chicagoland is the first attempt at documenting Chicago's history.
Arabs first arrived in Chicago in the middle of the 19th Century. Documents kept by social activist Jane Addams at the Hull House museum identified a group of about seven Arab immigrants who lived together in what is today the University of Illinois' Chicago campus. These first Arab settlers participated in craft shows displaying their cultural handiwork.
The first large waves of Arabs to arrive in Chicago began about the same time with Lebanese Christians who migrated through other regions of the country including Michigan and New York to eventually settle in Chicago following the battles at Zahlah in Syria in the 1860s. They were followed by a large number of early Palestinian Muslims from the village of Beitunia.
The area of 18th and Michigan Avenue in Chicago is often viewed as Chicago's Plymouth Rock. These early waves of Arab immigrants, along with Arabs from other Arab countries including Jordan, Egypt and Iraq, lived together in flop houses and apartments, often sharing the same centers for religious services. Muslim and Christian Arab clerics would travel to Chicago from other Arab communities and provide those services.
One of the most influential magnets for Arab immigration to Chicago was the Chicago Columbian Exposition in 1893. The World's Fair featured a massive display called "Cairo Street" where Arab World merchants sold merchandise. Their tales of business success reverberated among Arabs in Palestine, Lebanon and Jordan, and immigrants seeking to earn profits began settling with the intention of making money and then eventually returning.
Several studies were conducted in the 1950s and 1970s by PhD students examining the history of Arab settlement in Chicago and are cited in the book, ARABS OF CHICAGOLAND. And, Hanania was the publisher of the first English-language newspaper in Chicago, The Middle Eastern Voice (1975-1977), which featured interviews and photographs of Arab Americans at the time. Hanania also published The Arab American View (1999-2003). Photographs and first-person interviews with Arab Americans are featured in the book.
ARABS OF CHICAGOLAND includes 205 photographs with more than 757 people pictured of the community's history dating back to the 1920s, collected from families and from Hanania's newspaper archives. The book includes profiles of several early Arab American settlers, including a the transcript of an interview recorded with one Palestinian, Jamal Kateeb, who came to Chicago in 1921. Like most Arab immigrants at the time, he began work as a peddler going door-to-door. The difficulty of selling from a suitcase was often described as "Knocking on God's door." Kateeb describes how he arrived in the middle of winter and in the middle of the night and stood at the corner of where the Arab community was located until an Arab saw them and walked them to a corner coffee shop where they sat and had coffee until the wholesale store that provided sale items to Arab peddlers would open. The license to sell was purchased from two local Chicago aldermen, Hinky Dink Kenna and Bathhouse John Coughlin.
Also featured are Jordanians, Lebanese and Egyptian early settlers.
Today, Chicago is predominantly Palestinian with the community almost equally divided between Christians and Muslims. The majority of Muslims come from Beitunia in Palestine and live along the Southwest corridor of Chicago and its suburbs stretching as far southwest as Orland Park where a new mosque was approved over the intense objection of the community's citizens. The majority of Christian Palestinians live along the Northwest corridor of Chicago through the far Northwest suburbs and originate from Ramallah, Palestine, the sister city of Beitunia. The next largest communities consist of Christian Lebanese, Christian Jordanians and Egyptians of the Muslim and Coptic faiths.
Despite the long history of Chicago's Arab American community, there are no landmarks recognizing their many contributions to the city and the region. Chicago celebrates Arab Heritage Month every November, but the event is ignored by Chicago's major media despite an array of Arab sponsored activities that take place. Although Chicago has more than 75 Arab American restaurants, not one has been featured or included in Chicago's high profile Taste of Chicago festival, although last year Hanania was invited to perform his standup comedy routine at the performance stage hosted by Comcast Cable TV.
"Chicago's Arab American community is significant in the bigger picture of Arabs in America, yet we have been unable to coalesce and work together for the greater good," said Hanania who is an award winning syndicate columnist, journalist, author and humorist.
"I think our real tragedy is that we have allowed the city of Chicago, the second largest city in America, to ignore our community and take us for granted. The book helps to identify many Arab Americans who have achieved success in Chicago and I am hoping it will reinforce the pride that young Arab Americans can experience knowing that despite not being recognized by American society, we have done much to make this a great country."
Hanania is also the publisher of the humor book published in 1996 called "I'm Glad I Look Like a Terrorist: Growing Up Arab in America" (which is available only online from Amazon.com). His columns analyzing Middle East issues are distributed by Creators Syndicate (www.Creators.com) and his comedy has been performed at festivals and haflis across the United States. In August 2002, Hanania was thrust into the national spotlight when Jewish American comedian an anti-Arab critic Jackie Mason refused to perform on stage with him because Hanania is Palestinian. Today, Hanania also writes print and online columns for the Southwest News-Herald (www.SWNewsHerald.com) on regional Midwest issues and a humor column for the Israeli news web site owned by Israel's largest newspaper Yedioth Ahronot (www.YnetNews.com).
Hanania can be reached at www.hanania.com. Information on the book can be obtained at www.ArcadiaPublishing.com.
END
(EDITORS NOTE: a picture of one a grocery store operated by Palestinian Ahmad Ziyad, founder of Ziyad Brothers Importing, who came to Chicago in 1961 can be provided if requested. Ray Hanania, rayhanania@aol.com.)
Only a few books have been published that attempt to document the history of Arab Americans in America. Hanania's Arabs of Chicagoland is the first attempt at documenting Chicago's history.
Arabs first arrived in Chicago in the middle of the 19th Century. Documents kept by social activist Jane Addams at the Hull House museum identified a group of about seven Arab immigrants who lived together in what is today the University of Illinois' Chicago campus. These first Arab settlers participated in craft shows displaying their cultural handiwork.
The first large waves of Arabs to arrive in Chicago began about the same time with Lebanese Christians who migrated through other regions of the country including Michigan and New York to eventually settle in Chicago following the battles at Zahlah in Syria in the 1860s. They were followed by a large number of early Palestinian Muslims from the village of Beitunia.
The area of 18th and Michigan Avenue in Chicago is often viewed as Chicago's Plymouth Rock. These early waves of Arab immigrants, along with Arabs from other Arab countries including Jordan, Egypt and Iraq, lived together in flop houses and apartments, often sharing the same centers for religious services. Muslim and Christian Arab clerics would travel to Chicago from other Arab communities and provide those services.
One of the most influential magnets for Arab immigration to Chicago was the Chicago Columbian Exposition in 1893. The World's Fair featured a massive display called "Cairo Street" where Arab World merchants sold merchandise. Their tales of business success reverberated among Arabs in Palestine, Lebanon and Jordan, and immigrants seeking to earn profits began settling with the intention of making money and then eventually returning.
Several studies were conducted in the 1950s and 1970s by PhD students examining the history of Arab settlement in Chicago and are cited in the book, ARABS OF CHICAGOLAND. And, Hanania was the publisher of the first English-language newspaper in Chicago, The Middle Eastern Voice (1975-1977), which featured interviews and photographs of Arab Americans at the time. Hanania also published The Arab American View (1999-2003). Photographs and first-person interviews with Arab Americans are featured in the book.
ARABS OF CHICAGOLAND includes 205 photographs with more than 757 people pictured of the community's history dating back to the 1920s, collected from families and from Hanania's newspaper archives. The book includes profiles of several early Arab American settlers, including a the transcript of an interview recorded with one Palestinian, Jamal Kateeb, who came to Chicago in 1921. Like most Arab immigrants at the time, he began work as a peddler going door-to-door. The difficulty of selling from a suitcase was often described as "Knocking on God's door." Kateeb describes how he arrived in the middle of winter and in the middle of the night and stood at the corner of where the Arab community was located until an Arab saw them and walked them to a corner coffee shop where they sat and had coffee until the wholesale store that provided sale items to Arab peddlers would open. The license to sell was purchased from two local Chicago aldermen, Hinky Dink Kenna and Bathhouse John Coughlin.
Also featured are Jordanians, Lebanese and Egyptian early settlers.
Today, Chicago is predominantly Palestinian with the community almost equally divided between Christians and Muslims. The majority of Muslims come from Beitunia in Palestine and live along the Southwest corridor of Chicago and its suburbs stretching as far southwest as Orland Park where a new mosque was approved over the intense objection of the community's citizens. The majority of Christian Palestinians live along the Northwest corridor of Chicago through the far Northwest suburbs and originate from Ramallah, Palestine, the sister city of Beitunia. The next largest communities consist of Christian Lebanese, Christian Jordanians and Egyptians of the Muslim and Coptic faiths.
Despite the long history of Chicago's Arab American community, there are no landmarks recognizing their many contributions to the city and the region. Chicago celebrates Arab Heritage Month every November, but the event is ignored by Chicago's major media despite an array of Arab sponsored activities that take place. Although Chicago has more than 75 Arab American restaurants, not one has been featured or included in Chicago's high profile Taste of Chicago festival, although last year Hanania was invited to perform his standup comedy routine at the performance stage hosted by Comcast Cable TV.
"Chicago's Arab American community is significant in the bigger picture of Arabs in America, yet we have been unable to coalesce and work together for the greater good," said Hanania who is an award winning syndicate columnist, journalist, author and humorist.
"I think our real tragedy is that we have allowed the city of Chicago, the second largest city in America, to ignore our community and take us for granted. The book helps to identify many Arab Americans who have achieved success in Chicago and I am hoping it will reinforce the pride that young Arab Americans can experience knowing that despite not being recognized by American society, we have done much to make this a great country."
Hanania is also the publisher of the humor book published in 1996 called "I'm Glad I Look Like a Terrorist: Growing Up Arab in America" (which is available only online from Amazon.com). His columns analyzing Middle East issues are distributed by Creators Syndicate (www.Creators.com) and his comedy has been performed at festivals and haflis across the United States. In August 2002, Hanania was thrust into the national spotlight when Jewish American comedian an anti-Arab critic Jackie Mason refused to perform on stage with him because Hanania is Palestinian. Today, Hanania also writes print and online columns for the Southwest News-Herald (www.SWNewsHerald.com) on regional Midwest issues and a humor column for the Israeli news web site owned by Israel's largest newspaper Yedioth Ahronot (www.YnetNews.com).
Hanania can be reached at www.hanania.com. Information on the book can be obtained at www.ArcadiaPublishing.com.
END
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
RAWI Arab Writers Conference Report
From Barbara Nimri Aziz, Founder
July 12, 2005
RAWI’s successful literary conference Kallimuna ended last month with the assumption of new officers, Khaled Mattawa as president and Steven Salaita as Executive Director to continue RAWI nationwide and international work. Mattawa is at U. Michigan in Ann Arbor, and Salaita is at U. Wisconsin in Whitewater.
This brought to a close a two-day program of 19 panels and workshops rich in dialogue, warmth and enthusiasm and spawned new friendships and projects among the 120 participants, mainly Arab American writers, from across the country.
Highlighting the weekend gathering in New York was the awards dinner hosted by Suheir Hammad with stories and poems by Naomi Shihab Nye, Mohja Kahf, Marian Haddad and Maysa Hayward.
Friday Night’s Poetry Reading at the Lang Recital Hall, Hunter College, site of the conference, was highlighted by 6 of our outstanding poets:-- Naomi Shihab Nye, DH Melhem, Mohja Kahf, Lawrence Joseph, Hayan Charara, and Khaled Mattawa.
Leila Shereen and Rachida Mohammedi offered open mike presentations.
AWARDS: Salma Khadra Jayyusi, poet, critic and anthologist was recipient of the first Edward Said Award for Career Excellence, acknowledging her work as an activist, a scholar and a writer. The award was presented to Jayyusi by Mariam Said.
The Outstanding Emerging Writer prize in the name of Hala Maksoud was awarded to novelist Patricia Sarrafian Ward, author of "The Bullet Collection". The award was presented by Clovis Maksoud in honor of his wife, her support for women, her love of literature and her accomplishments as a scholar.
Alice Nashashibi’s groundbreaking work on behalf of RAWI in recent years was recognized in the Evelyn Menconi award honoring the Boston area educator and activist.
The first prize 2005 RAWI Creative Prose was awarded to Chicago writer Sahar Kayyal.
And in appreciation of their "work in building the Arab American creative community," honors were made to outgoing president, poet Etel Adnan and to retiring executive director, Barbara Nimri Aziz.
Praise from Kallimuna delegates:
"….It was an uplifting experience for me to see so many talented writers, poets and presenters of Arab origin gathered together in NY showing pride in their Arab heritage.
I never expected to get an award. I was just so happy to be a part of this momentous achievement…." Alice Nashshashibi
"….It’s hard for me to articulate just how profoundly being a member of an organization like RAWI and having the good fortune to attend the conferene has affected me.
"Now, more than ever, I feel a real sense of belonging, a safety, a certainty of purpose, and an awe at the talent of my brothers and sisters.
RAWI is something very special and I am honored to be a part. Thanks you for giving me a chance to participate, to showcase my work, and, especially, to be with my peers (and soon to be colleagues, I hope) and the incredible current of creative energy they generated last weekend." Amani Elkassabani
"…..Many thanks to you & the whole committee for organizing
and facilitating such a wonderful experience. The RAWI conference was a thoroughly enjoyable and effective forum for meeting people with like interests & goals, and for exploring important issues in the Arab American literary community….. " Heather Hoyt
"…. Thank you for everything you did to put this wonderful conference together. As someone who organizes many events here at Georgetown, I totally understand, and appreciate, all the hard work, energy, effort, and love that go into such undertakings. I enjoyed the weekend so much, and found it rejuvenating and nourishing to be around so many wonderful writers and people interested in literature, people who have a similar background--at least within our wide Arab-American spectrum. I loved the workshops and the panels. I am excited to be part of RAWI…." Zeina Seikaly
"…It was lovely meeting you at RAWI last weekend. I had a great time there and thought the whole conference was a huge success… " Laila Lalami
"…the conference was simply brilliant. I never thought I'd see the day when a conference happens without at least 20% of its participants complaining, and yet this conference seemed to have made everybody happy. I've gotten shining feedback…. (my wife) Diana kept telling me that I was glowing, and it was because I had such a fabulous time. I generally hate conferences and try to avoid them, but this one was...well, Naomi was correct, it was like being with family…." Steve Salaita
"…Mabrook on a wonderful first conference. I am sooo deeply saddened to have missed it. … I had planned to attend, but … In sha Allah next year! I just wanted to share my joy and congratulations at the success of the conference and send you my best regards. May you continue to do great work writing and organizing! All the best from Seattle." Lena Khalaf
"Thank you for the excellent … conference. It was a pleasure to meet you and see the fruits of your years of work. I was very pleased to attend and to meet other Arabic writers. Now, it's back to work. I'm trying to finish a novel by the end of July. Keep in touch." Frances K. Noble
"Congratulations. It was a great event." Kathryn Haddad
"Thank you for organizing such a great gathering of minds and artists. We really appreciate all that you have done it has helped us all move forward in our work…." Micaela Raen
-----------------------------
Repeated parting words of participants were "next year!" and four institutions have announced their readiness to host the next RAWI national conference! Before then we will see many more novels, essays, anthologies, poems, and awards from our growing community of talent and pride.
Thanks to the RAWI organizing committee who arranged the panels and workshops and were judges for the awards: David Williams, Susan Muaddi Darraj, Marian Haddad, Mohja Kahf, Steven Salaita, Jomana Amara, Lisa Suheir Majaj, Etel Adnan and Barbara Nimri Aziz.
The New York organizing committee members were Ahmed Issawi of Alwan for the Arts, Gerard Colby of National Writers Union, Maysoun Freij conference coordinator and BN Aziz, conference convener.
We welcome 23 new RAWI members our radius.
And we deeply thank the donors whose financial support made this possible.
END
July 12, 2005
RAWI’s successful literary conference Kallimuna ended last month with the assumption of new officers, Khaled Mattawa as president and Steven Salaita as Executive Director to continue RAWI nationwide and international work. Mattawa is at U. Michigan in Ann Arbor, and Salaita is at U. Wisconsin in Whitewater.
This brought to a close a two-day program of 19 panels and workshops rich in dialogue, warmth and enthusiasm and spawned new friendships and projects among the 120 participants, mainly Arab American writers, from across the country.
Highlighting the weekend gathering in New York was the awards dinner hosted by Suheir Hammad with stories and poems by Naomi Shihab Nye, Mohja Kahf, Marian Haddad and Maysa Hayward.
Friday Night’s Poetry Reading at the Lang Recital Hall, Hunter College, site of the conference, was highlighted by 6 of our outstanding poets:-- Naomi Shihab Nye, DH Melhem, Mohja Kahf, Lawrence Joseph, Hayan Charara, and Khaled Mattawa.
Leila Shereen and Rachida Mohammedi offered open mike presentations.
AWARDS: Salma Khadra Jayyusi, poet, critic and anthologist was recipient of the first Edward Said Award for Career Excellence, acknowledging her work as an activist, a scholar and a writer. The award was presented to Jayyusi by Mariam Said.
The Outstanding Emerging Writer prize in the name of Hala Maksoud was awarded to novelist Patricia Sarrafian Ward, author of "The Bullet Collection". The award was presented by Clovis Maksoud in honor of his wife, her support for women, her love of literature and her accomplishments as a scholar.
Alice Nashashibi’s groundbreaking work on behalf of RAWI in recent years was recognized in the Evelyn Menconi award honoring the Boston area educator and activist.
The first prize 2005 RAWI Creative Prose was awarded to Chicago writer Sahar Kayyal.
And in appreciation of their "work in building the Arab American creative community," honors were made to outgoing president, poet Etel Adnan and to retiring executive director, Barbara Nimri Aziz.
Praise from Kallimuna delegates:
"….It was an uplifting experience for me to see so many talented writers, poets and presenters of Arab origin gathered together in NY showing pride in their Arab heritage.
I never expected to get an award. I was just so happy to be a part of this momentous achievement…." Alice Nashshashibi
"….It’s hard for me to articulate just how profoundly being a member of an organization like RAWI and having the good fortune to attend the conferene has affected me.
"Now, more than ever, I feel a real sense of belonging, a safety, a certainty of purpose, and an awe at the talent of my brothers and sisters.
RAWI is something very special and I am honored to be a part. Thanks you for giving me a chance to participate, to showcase my work, and, especially, to be with my peers (and soon to be colleagues, I hope) and the incredible current of creative energy they generated last weekend." Amani Elkassabani
"…..Many thanks to you & the whole committee for organizing
and facilitating such a wonderful experience. The RAWI conference was a thoroughly enjoyable and effective forum for meeting people with like interests & goals, and for exploring important issues in the Arab American literary community….. " Heather Hoyt
"…. Thank you for everything you did to put this wonderful conference together. As someone who organizes many events here at Georgetown, I totally understand, and appreciate, all the hard work, energy, effort, and love that go into such undertakings. I enjoyed the weekend so much, and found it rejuvenating and nourishing to be around so many wonderful writers and people interested in literature, people who have a similar background--at least within our wide Arab-American spectrum. I loved the workshops and the panels. I am excited to be part of RAWI…." Zeina Seikaly
"…It was lovely meeting you at RAWI last weekend. I had a great time there and thought the whole conference was a huge success… " Laila Lalami
"…the conference was simply brilliant. I never thought I'd see the day when a conference happens without at least 20% of its participants complaining, and yet this conference seemed to have made everybody happy. I've gotten shining feedback…. (my wife) Diana kept telling me that I was glowing, and it was because I had such a fabulous time. I generally hate conferences and try to avoid them, but this one was...well, Naomi was correct, it was like being with family…." Steve Salaita
"…Mabrook on a wonderful first conference. I am sooo deeply saddened to have missed it. … I had planned to attend, but … In sha Allah next year! I just wanted to share my joy and congratulations at the success of the conference and send you my best regards. May you continue to do great work writing and organizing! All the best from Seattle." Lena Khalaf
"Thank you for the excellent … conference. It was a pleasure to meet you and see the fruits of your years of work. I was very pleased to attend and to meet other Arabic writers. Now, it's back to work. I'm trying to finish a novel by the end of July. Keep in touch." Frances K. Noble
"Congratulations. It was a great event." Kathryn Haddad
"Thank you for organizing such a great gathering of minds and artists. We really appreciate all that you have done it has helped us all move forward in our work…." Micaela Raen
-----------------------------
Repeated parting words of participants were "next year!" and four institutions have announced their readiness to host the next RAWI national conference! Before then we will see many more novels, essays, anthologies, poems, and awards from our growing community of talent and pride.
Thanks to the RAWI organizing committee who arranged the panels and workshops and were judges for the awards: David Williams, Susan Muaddi Darraj, Marian Haddad, Mohja Kahf, Steven Salaita, Jomana Amara, Lisa Suheir Majaj, Etel Adnan and Barbara Nimri Aziz.
The New York organizing committee members were Ahmed Issawi of Alwan for the Arts, Gerard Colby of National Writers Union, Maysoun Freij conference coordinator and BN Aziz, conference convener.
We welcome 23 new RAWI members our radius.
And we deeply thank the donors whose financial support made this possible.
END
Monday, July 11, 2005
New York City to celebrate Arab Heritage Month
NYC to Celebrate First Arab-American Heritage Week
What: Arab-American Heritage WeekWhen: Saturday July 9 through Saturday July 16, 2005 NEW YORK, July 11 -- Mayor Michael Bloomberg will officially declare Arab-American Heritage Week during festivities taking place between July 9 and 16.
New York City Arab-American organizations and museums will host events in order to introduce New Yorkers to the vast diversity of Arab people, their cultural traditions, customs, cuisine, art, music and dance.Arab Americans have resided in NY since the 1800's and have contributed to New York and the rest of the country in many ways. Today, over 200,000 Arab- Americans populate New York City. The Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs has established Arab-American Heritage Week as an annual event in order to commemorate the community's presence and contributions over the years.
"As an educator, Heritage Week has been a long-time dream that Arab- Americans and I have wanted to share with fellow New Yorkers," said Debbie Almontaser, one of the event's principal organizers. "The week will give New Yorkers a chance to learn Arab cultural traditions - food, music, dance - the elements of life that exemplify how we are more alike than we are different as human beings."
This year, Heritage Week will kick-off on Saturday July 9th with the 3rd Annual Arab-American Cultural Street Festival and the 7th Annual North-African Cultural Street Festival, hosted jointly by the Network of Arab-American Professionals of New York (NAAP-NY) and the Algerian American Cultural Center (AACC).
Other events include a stand up comedy workshop lead by comedians Dean Obeidallah and Maysoon Zayid, presented by the New York Arab-American Comedy Festival (7/12) and Arab American Community Tours by Marry Ann DiNapoli in Brooklyn (7/9, 7/11). The films "Return to the Land of Wonders" and "The Thief of Baghdad" will be shown at the Two Boots Pioneer Theatre and the Museum of the Moving Image (7/13 and 7/16), and music lovers may catch an evening of Iraqi music featuring Amir Saffar, at Alwan for the Arts (7/15). Finally, the week will close with the Arab American Heritage Park Festival, sponsored by the Arab American Association of New York and the Arab American Family Support Center (7/16).
Sponsoring organizations include: Arab American Association of New York, Arab American Institute, The Arab-American Family Support Center, Alwan for the Arts, Salam Arabic Lutheran Church, Mahrajan of Middle Eastern Churches, Yemeni American Association, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, Arab Muslim American Federation, Salaam Club of New York, and the Network of Arab-American Professionals of New York.For a complete listing of events or for more information about Arab- American Heritage Week, please visit:
http://www.arabamericanheritage.net
Source: Network of Arab-American ProfessionalsCONTACT: Debbie Almontaser, +1-917-559-8480, or Linda Sarsour,+1-917-306-3323, both for Network of Arab-American Professionals
What: Arab-American Heritage WeekWhen: Saturday July 9 through Saturday July 16, 2005 NEW YORK, July 11 -- Mayor Michael Bloomberg will officially declare Arab-American Heritage Week during festivities taking place between July 9 and 16.
New York City Arab-American organizations and museums will host events in order to introduce New Yorkers to the vast diversity of Arab people, their cultural traditions, customs, cuisine, art, music and dance.Arab Americans have resided in NY since the 1800's and have contributed to New York and the rest of the country in many ways. Today, over 200,000 Arab- Americans populate New York City. The Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs has established Arab-American Heritage Week as an annual event in order to commemorate the community's presence and contributions over the years.
"As an educator, Heritage Week has been a long-time dream that Arab- Americans and I have wanted to share with fellow New Yorkers," said Debbie Almontaser, one of the event's principal organizers. "The week will give New Yorkers a chance to learn Arab cultural traditions - food, music, dance - the elements of life that exemplify how we are more alike than we are different as human beings."
This year, Heritage Week will kick-off on Saturday July 9th with the 3rd Annual Arab-American Cultural Street Festival and the 7th Annual North-African Cultural Street Festival, hosted jointly by the Network of Arab-American Professionals of New York (NAAP-NY) and the Algerian American Cultural Center (AACC).
Other events include a stand up comedy workshop lead by comedians Dean Obeidallah and Maysoon Zayid, presented by the New York Arab-American Comedy Festival (7/12) and Arab American Community Tours by Marry Ann DiNapoli in Brooklyn (7/9, 7/11). The films "Return to the Land of Wonders" and "The Thief of Baghdad" will be shown at the Two Boots Pioneer Theatre and the Museum of the Moving Image (7/13 and 7/16), and music lovers may catch an evening of Iraqi music featuring Amir Saffar, at Alwan for the Arts (7/15). Finally, the week will close with the Arab American Heritage Park Festival, sponsored by the Arab American Association of New York and the Arab American Family Support Center (7/16).
Sponsoring organizations include: Arab American Association of New York, Arab American Institute, The Arab-American Family Support Center, Alwan for the Arts, Salam Arabic Lutheran Church, Mahrajan of Middle Eastern Churches, Yemeni American Association, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, Arab Muslim American Federation, Salaam Club of New York, and the Network of Arab-American Professionals of New York.For a complete listing of events or for more information about Arab- American Heritage Week, please visit:
http://www.arabamericanheritage.net
Source: Network of Arab-American ProfessionalsCONTACT: Debbie Almontaser, +1-917-559-8480, or Linda Sarsour,+1-917-306-3323, both for Network of Arab-American Professionals
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Second Egyptian American announces candidacy for Egyptian presidency
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hossam Shaltout Announces Bid
for Presidency of Egypt
Hossam Shaltout, an Egyptian peace activist and founder of Rights and Freedom International, today announced that he will be running for President of Egypt in the upcoming election. "I think that the time has come for reform in Egypt, and I know that I’m the person to accomplish it,” he said at a press conference today.
Shaltout stated that Egypt is in crisis and that new leadership is needed. “It’s time for us all to work for a better future for ourselves and, more importantly, for our children” he said. My presidency will result in that better future, he said during his news conference.
Shaltout, 58, a successful businessman, is a graduate of Cairo University’s Aerospace Engineering school. His extensive international experience positions him well to guide Egypt in the future. Shaltout has lived in Canada and the United States, and thus understands Western culture thoroughly.
He risked both his financial and his personal health in attempting to prevent America from attacking Iraq in 2003; indeed, as a result he was mistakenly arrested, detained, and tortured by American forces in Iraq.
Shaltout offered an aggressive agenda to pull Egypt out of its economic and political slump. Among his campaign themes are:
· Guaranteed government employment or payment of employment insurance and welfare
· Guaranteed (free) medical insurance
Elimination of corruption, in part by instituting United Nations audits
· Release of all political prisoners
· Total freedom of expression, including removal of restrictions on the media and formation of political parties
· Elimination of mandatory conscription (draft)
· Complete equality for women, including compensatory programs to assist them in becoming more productive members of society
· Working to provide affordable housing for all
For further information contactTel: +202 345 1627 or 1 888 800 6107E- Mail: ss@gte.netWebsite: www.rightandfreedom.com
Hossam Shaltout Announces Bid
for Presidency of Egypt
Hossam Shaltout, an Egyptian peace activist and founder of Rights and Freedom International, today announced that he will be running for President of Egypt in the upcoming election. "I think that the time has come for reform in Egypt, and I know that I’m the person to accomplish it,” he said at a press conference today.
Shaltout stated that Egypt is in crisis and that new leadership is needed. “It’s time for us all to work for a better future for ourselves and, more importantly, for our children” he said. My presidency will result in that better future, he said during his news conference.
Shaltout, 58, a successful businessman, is a graduate of Cairo University’s Aerospace Engineering school. His extensive international experience positions him well to guide Egypt in the future. Shaltout has lived in Canada and the United States, and thus understands Western culture thoroughly.
He risked both his financial and his personal health in attempting to prevent America from attacking Iraq in 2003; indeed, as a result he was mistakenly arrested, detained, and tortured by American forces in Iraq.
Shaltout offered an aggressive agenda to pull Egypt out of its economic and political slump. Among his campaign themes are:
· Guaranteed government employment or payment of employment insurance and welfare
· Guaranteed (free) medical insurance
Elimination of corruption, in part by instituting United Nations audits
· Release of all political prisoners
· Total freedom of expression, including removal of restrictions on the media and formation of political parties
· Elimination of mandatory conscription (draft)
· Complete equality for women, including compensatory programs to assist them in becoming more productive members of society
· Working to provide affordable housing for all
For further information contactTel: +202 345 1627 or 1 888 800 6107E- Mail: ss@gte.netWebsite: www.rightandfreedom.com
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Muslim sues Department of Homeland Security over harrassment
U.S. Citizen and his Family Sue Homeland Security Department to End Detentions and Harassment Triggered by Misidentification on Re-Entry to U.S.
6/28/2005 11:44:00 AM
To: City Desk
Contact: Edwin C. Yohnka of the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, 312-201-9740 ext. 305; 312-851-2832 (pager); 847-687-1129 (cell); eyohnka@aclu-il.org
CHICAGO, June 28 /U.S. Newswire/ -- After a nearly six-hour ordeal at the United States-Canada border -- during which he was subjected to unnecessary excessive force during a body search and shackled to a chair for approximately three hours while isolated from his wife and children -- the owner of a suburban Chicago computer software company and his family today asked a federal district court to order the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to remedy policies that caused this, and three other unlawful detentions, because he was misidentified. Akif Rahman, a native born United States citizen, today described the May 8, 2005 detention at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel as the most harrowing and frightening example in an escalating series of detentions that began fifteen months ago. Since March 2004, Mr. Rahman was detained and questioned by DHS on five separate occasions as he re-entered the country after business or personal trips abroad. Four of the detentions lasted unnecessarily long periods of time (anywhere from two to six hours), longer than was reasonably required for determining Mr. Rahman's identity and allowing him to proceed into the United States. According to an April 2005 letter from a DHS component agency to Mr. Rahman, all of his difficulties are the direct result of an "unfortunate misidentification scenario."
"The situation was frightening and intimidating," said Mr. Rahman in announcing the lawsuit. "I simply could not believe what was happening. I am an American citizen, simply re-entering my own country. Even after I presented multiple forms of valid identification as recommended by the Department of Homeland Security, I was handcuffed for approximately three hours and guarded like a felon for nearly six hours. The policies that caused this to happen to me or other innocent persons must be changed."
According to the lawsuit filed today by the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, Mr. Rahman was improperly detained four times in the last 15 months upon his reentry to the United States from abroad. Those occasions occurred at Los Angeles International Airport in March 2004; Chicago O'Hare International Airport in August 2004; Montreal Airport in September 2004; and at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel on May 8, 2005. The May 2005 stop became a nightmare for the entire Rahman family.
After the first few detentions, Mr. Rahman contacted several governmental agencies and filed a series of Freedom of Information Act requests in order to learn why he was being subjected to these detentions and harassment. In April 2005, the Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agency of DHS wrote to Mr. Rahman indicating that his problem was "the direct result of an unfortunate misidentification scenario." The ICE official told Mr. Rahman that they had taken steps to correct government databases in order to address the situation and advised him to carry multiple forms of identification when traveling abroad. Mr. Rahman always carried such identification -- including a passport, driver's license and Social Security card -- when he was detained by DHS officers. Mr. Rahman's name is as universally common as "John Smith." There are hundreds and thousands of persons in the United States with a name that is similar to, or sounds like, Mr. Rahman's, and therefore would be identified for screening by the Border Patrol's computer system.
The events at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel on May 8th make clear that ICE did not correct the misidentification problem. On that day, the Rahman family was driving home from visiting relatives in Canada. At the Tunnel, they were asked by DHS officials for identification. After reviewing the identification, the officer ordered Mr. Rahman to turn off his car and surrender the keys. Mr. Rahman was escorted from the car by multiple agents, separated from his family and detained for approximately six hours, during which he was shackled to a chair for approximately three hours, and also repeatedly kicked during a search of his person. His wife and children also were detained for six hours in a room with no food for the Rahman's two young children.
"It simply was not necessary for DHS to detain the Rahman family for approximately six hours in order to determine Mr. Rahman's identity," said Harvey Grossman of the ACLU in announcing the lawsuit. "The DHS has stated that the detentions were the result of misidentification. Yet Mr. Rahman presented all the identification DHS said he should need to gain expeditious reentry. No law-abiding U.S. citizen should be treated this way. And, the treatment of Mrs. Rhaman and her children is inexplicable."
The lawsuit filed on Mr. Rahman's behalf asks a federal court to order DHS to adopt polices that ensure expeditious reentry to the United States for U.S. citizens whose names are similar to those on government watch lists, and to institute adequate training and supervision to ensure that U.S. citizens are not unduly detained and harassed upon entering the United States.
"Treating United States citizens like Mr. Rahman in this fashion is intolerable, and will do nothing to make us safer," said cooperating attorney Everett J. Cygal.
Mr. Cygal, Paula Ketcham, and Jason Lee of the Chicago law firm Schiff Hardin LLP are assisting the ACLU of Illinois in this case.
------
A copy of the complaint is available at
http://www.aclu-
il.org/legal/courtdocuments/rahman.pdf.
http://www.usnewswire.com/
6/28/2005 11:44:00 AM
To: City Desk
Contact: Edwin C. Yohnka of the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, 312-201-9740 ext. 305; 312-851-2832 (pager); 847-687-1129 (cell); eyohnka@aclu-il.org
CHICAGO, June 28 /U.S. Newswire/ -- After a nearly six-hour ordeal at the United States-Canada border -- during which he was subjected to unnecessary excessive force during a body search and shackled to a chair for approximately three hours while isolated from his wife and children -- the owner of a suburban Chicago computer software company and his family today asked a federal district court to order the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to remedy policies that caused this, and three other unlawful detentions, because he was misidentified. Akif Rahman, a native born United States citizen, today described the May 8, 2005 detention at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel as the most harrowing and frightening example in an escalating series of detentions that began fifteen months ago. Since March 2004, Mr. Rahman was detained and questioned by DHS on five separate occasions as he re-entered the country after business or personal trips abroad. Four of the detentions lasted unnecessarily long periods of time (anywhere from two to six hours), longer than was reasonably required for determining Mr. Rahman's identity and allowing him to proceed into the United States. According to an April 2005 letter from a DHS component agency to Mr. Rahman, all of his difficulties are the direct result of an "unfortunate misidentification scenario."
"The situation was frightening and intimidating," said Mr. Rahman in announcing the lawsuit. "I simply could not believe what was happening. I am an American citizen, simply re-entering my own country. Even after I presented multiple forms of valid identification as recommended by the Department of Homeland Security, I was handcuffed for approximately three hours and guarded like a felon for nearly six hours. The policies that caused this to happen to me or other innocent persons must be changed."
According to the lawsuit filed today by the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, Mr. Rahman was improperly detained four times in the last 15 months upon his reentry to the United States from abroad. Those occasions occurred at Los Angeles International Airport in March 2004; Chicago O'Hare International Airport in August 2004; Montreal Airport in September 2004; and at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel on May 8, 2005. The May 2005 stop became a nightmare for the entire Rahman family.
After the first few detentions, Mr. Rahman contacted several governmental agencies and filed a series of Freedom of Information Act requests in order to learn why he was being subjected to these detentions and harassment. In April 2005, the Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agency of DHS wrote to Mr. Rahman indicating that his problem was "the direct result of an unfortunate misidentification scenario." The ICE official told Mr. Rahman that they had taken steps to correct government databases in order to address the situation and advised him to carry multiple forms of identification when traveling abroad. Mr. Rahman always carried such identification -- including a passport, driver's license and Social Security card -- when he was detained by DHS officers. Mr. Rahman's name is as universally common as "John Smith." There are hundreds and thousands of persons in the United States with a name that is similar to, or sounds like, Mr. Rahman's, and therefore would be identified for screening by the Border Patrol's computer system.
The events at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel on May 8th make clear that ICE did not correct the misidentification problem. On that day, the Rahman family was driving home from visiting relatives in Canada. At the Tunnel, they were asked by DHS officials for identification. After reviewing the identification, the officer ordered Mr. Rahman to turn off his car and surrender the keys. Mr. Rahman was escorted from the car by multiple agents, separated from his family and detained for approximately six hours, during which he was shackled to a chair for approximately three hours, and also repeatedly kicked during a search of his person. His wife and children also were detained for six hours in a room with no food for the Rahman's two young children.
"It simply was not necessary for DHS to detain the Rahman family for approximately six hours in order to determine Mr. Rahman's identity," said Harvey Grossman of the ACLU in announcing the lawsuit. "The DHS has stated that the detentions were the result of misidentification. Yet Mr. Rahman presented all the identification DHS said he should need to gain expeditious reentry. No law-abiding U.S. citizen should be treated this way. And, the treatment of Mrs. Rhaman and her children is inexplicable."
The lawsuit filed on Mr. Rahman's behalf asks a federal court to order DHS to adopt polices that ensure expeditious reentry to the United States for U.S. citizens whose names are similar to those on government watch lists, and to institute adequate training and supervision to ensure that U.S. citizens are not unduly detained and harassed upon entering the United States.
"Treating United States citizens like Mr. Rahman in this fashion is intolerable, and will do nothing to make us safer," said cooperating attorney Everett J. Cygal.
Mr. Cygal, Paula Ketcham, and Jason Lee of the Chicago law firm Schiff Hardin LLP are assisting the ACLU of Illinois in this case.
------
A copy of the complaint is available at
http://www.aclu-
il.org/legal/courtdocuments/rahman.pdf.
http://www.usnewswire.com/
Monday, June 27, 2005
Hala Salam Maksoud training program set for Fall
Applications Welcomed for Upcoming Arab-American Leadership Training
First Hala Foundation Program May 30-June 3 Produced Tremendous Response
The Hala Salaam Maksoud Foundation for Arab-American Leadership is nowwelcoming applications for 2 upcoming intensive, 5-day trainingsessions planned for August 28-Sept. 2 and late November, 2005.
The first Hala Foundation Leadership Program training session was held from June May 30-June 3, and elicited a tremendous response from theparticipants. Applications are sought from those who wish to beconsidered for future training sessions. There is no charge for thetraining sessions, which are held in Washington, DC, but trainees areresponsible for their own travel and accommodation. The training willbe led and coordinated by the Hala Foundation's Program Director Dr.Hussein Ibish.
Applicants should be young Arab-American professionals who havecompleted their education and have already begun their professionalcareers, or those in the final stages of a Ph.D. program. They shouldhave a demonstrable commitment to advocacy on behalf of Arab-Americanconcerns, and a desire to devote substantial time and effort toleadership on behalf of the community.Feedback from participants in the first leadership training session:
"I found the training sessions at the Hala Foundation to be one of themost intellectually stimulating experiences I've had in some time.Dynamic speakers, fascinating topics and an inviting environment aresome of the factors that made this experience worthwhile. Already, Ihave been able to take what I learned in Washington and apply it to myclasses and my own research."Professor Dave Zoby, Casper College
"This was by far the most effective leadership training I have everreceived. It was absolutely worth juggling my schedule andsacrificing my precious few days off because the skills and network Ideveloped there will last a lifetime. This is a genius endeavor – itis groundbreaking, cutting edge, and brilliant, much like itsnamesake."Maysoon Zayid, Comedian and actress
"My week at the Hala Foundation training was one of the most valuableand inspiring of my professional career. I was given access to ourcommunity's sharpest minds and most accomplished leaders. Even moreimportant, the learning doesn't end when you leave Washington. I'mnow lucky to be a part of a growing network of Arab Americans from allends of the political spectrum unified in our dedication to theempowerment of the Arab American community."Rebecca Abou-Chedid, Government Relations Specialist, Arab American Institute
"Loved it, loved it, loved it. It's a testimony to the Program'sunique approach that, after being brought together for a week ofintense dialogue on the most difficult issues facing Arab Americans,we each left determined but also inspired and uplifted. The week wasas much about grasping a hard situation as it was about discoveringways to address it--not as remote, besieged individuals, but as partof an active, committed collective that, despite internal differences,reaches out and supports each other. Incredibly, in one fantasticweek, the workshop provided the tools necessary – i.e. knowledge(including an encyclopedic amount of information, as well as valuablelessons imparted by those long-active within the community), skills,contacts, encouragement and support - to develop that attitude."Kristin Shamas, University of Oklahoma
"The Leadership Training Program exceeded ALL of my expectations. Wewere encouraged to think for ourselves and to act on our goals in aproactive, effective manner to benefit the Arab-American community asa whole. To potential participants: Please take advantage of thisopportunity!"Yasmine Hannaney, Film-maker and actress
The Leadership Training Program is designed to create a nationalnetwork of highly trained, informed and focused young Arab-Americanprofessionals equipped to take on the advocacy and organizationalefforts required for community leadership.The Leadership Program provides extensive training in:
* Command of the Issues: mastery of both information and arguments
* Presentation Skills: making the case effectively
* Interpersonal Skills: making friends and influencing people
* Organizational Skills: mobilizing the community
* Collaborative Skills: building effective teams
* Coalition Building Techniques: finding unexpected allies
* Networking: building a national network of trained activists
* Continuous Improvement: developing long-term relationships with traineesApplicants should send a letter of interest explaining their desire tobecome community leaders or activists, a CV and a writing sample orany other relevant material to:The Hala Salaam Maksoud Foundation815 Connecticut Ave. NWSuite 200Washington, DC20006Please visit http://www.halafoundation.org for more detailsEmail director@halafoundation.org with any questions
First Hala Foundation Program May 30-June 3 Produced Tremendous Response
The Hala Salaam Maksoud Foundation for Arab-American Leadership is nowwelcoming applications for 2 upcoming intensive, 5-day trainingsessions planned for August 28-Sept. 2 and late November, 2005.
The first Hala Foundation Leadership Program training session was held from June May 30-June 3, and elicited a tremendous response from theparticipants. Applications are sought from those who wish to beconsidered for future training sessions. There is no charge for thetraining sessions, which are held in Washington, DC, but trainees areresponsible for their own travel and accommodation. The training willbe led and coordinated by the Hala Foundation's Program Director Dr.Hussein Ibish.
Applicants should be young Arab-American professionals who havecompleted their education and have already begun their professionalcareers, or those in the final stages of a Ph.D. program. They shouldhave a demonstrable commitment to advocacy on behalf of Arab-Americanconcerns, and a desire to devote substantial time and effort toleadership on behalf of the community.Feedback from participants in the first leadership training session:
"I found the training sessions at the Hala Foundation to be one of themost intellectually stimulating experiences I've had in some time.Dynamic speakers, fascinating topics and an inviting environment aresome of the factors that made this experience worthwhile. Already, Ihave been able to take what I learned in Washington and apply it to myclasses and my own research."Professor Dave Zoby, Casper College
"This was by far the most effective leadership training I have everreceived. It was absolutely worth juggling my schedule andsacrificing my precious few days off because the skills and network Ideveloped there will last a lifetime. This is a genius endeavor – itis groundbreaking, cutting edge, and brilliant, much like itsnamesake."Maysoon Zayid, Comedian and actress
"My week at the Hala Foundation training was one of the most valuableand inspiring of my professional career. I was given access to ourcommunity's sharpest minds and most accomplished leaders. Even moreimportant, the learning doesn't end when you leave Washington. I'mnow lucky to be a part of a growing network of Arab Americans from allends of the political spectrum unified in our dedication to theempowerment of the Arab American community."Rebecca Abou-Chedid, Government Relations Specialist, Arab American Institute
"Loved it, loved it, loved it. It's a testimony to the Program'sunique approach that, after being brought together for a week ofintense dialogue on the most difficult issues facing Arab Americans,we each left determined but also inspired and uplifted. The week wasas much about grasping a hard situation as it was about discoveringways to address it--not as remote, besieged individuals, but as partof an active, committed collective that, despite internal differences,reaches out and supports each other. Incredibly, in one fantasticweek, the workshop provided the tools necessary – i.e. knowledge(including an encyclopedic amount of information, as well as valuablelessons imparted by those long-active within the community), skills,contacts, encouragement and support - to develop that attitude."Kristin Shamas, University of Oklahoma
"The Leadership Training Program exceeded ALL of my expectations. Wewere encouraged to think for ourselves and to act on our goals in aproactive, effective manner to benefit the Arab-American community asa whole. To potential participants: Please take advantage of thisopportunity!"Yasmine Hannaney, Film-maker and actress
The Leadership Training Program is designed to create a nationalnetwork of highly trained, informed and focused young Arab-Americanprofessionals equipped to take on the advocacy and organizationalefforts required for community leadership.The Leadership Program provides extensive training in:
* Command of the Issues: mastery of both information and arguments
* Presentation Skills: making the case effectively
* Interpersonal Skills: making friends and influencing people
* Organizational Skills: mobilizing the community
* Collaborative Skills: building effective teams
* Coalition Building Techniques: finding unexpected allies
* Networking: building a national network of trained activists
* Continuous Improvement: developing long-term relationships with traineesApplicants should send a letter of interest explaining their desire tobecome community leaders or activists, a CV and a writing sample orany other relevant material to:The Hala Salaam Maksoud Foundation815 Connecticut Ave. NWSuite 200Washington, DC20006Please visit http://www.halafoundation.org for more detailsEmail director@halafoundation.org with any questions
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Rachel Corrie webcast June 24 9 AM Pacific
Rachel’s Radio: Worldwide webcast this Friday, June 24.
Friday, June 24, 2005.9 – 10 a.m. PDT
www.kboo.fm
Speakers: Cindy and Craig Corrie, Klaled and Samah Nasrallah, Donna Baranksi-WalkerMC: Lisa Hamid
Highlights from Portland’s “In Rachel’s Name” event will be broadcast worldwide on the internet on Friday, June 24, 9 – 10 a.m. PDT. Listeners all over the world are just three clicks away from hearing the how after the death of their daughter Rachel, Cindy and Craig Corrie went to Rafah, Gaza where they befriended Samah and Khaled Nasrallah and their three children.
Rachel was murdered trying to prevent the demolition of the Nasrallah home by an Israeli military Caterpillar bulldozer paid for by the U.S. government.
The Corries and Nasrallahs are touring U.S. cities under the auspices of The Rebuilding Alliance. The goal of the tour is to raise funds to rebuild the Nasrallah’s home and eventually rebuild the hundreds of homes that have been demolished - sometimes with people living within them - during Israel’s illegal, immoral and insane occupation of Palestine, an aggression now lasting 38 years.
On Thursday, June 16, a capacity crowd of 500 filled St. Francis of Assisi Church in Portland, Oregon, donating $4,600 to begin rebuilding one home. This heartfelt people-to-people act of compassion was one community’s response and a small step towards making restitution for the crimes against humanity that have been committed by the governments of the United States and Israel. Lest we forget: destroying homes, killing innocent civilians, traumatizing children, engaging in collective punishment against an entire people, and depriving people of food, water, medical care, employment, education and dignity is terrorism.
This powerfully moving, informative and inspirational event was sponsored by: Americans United for Palestinian Human Rights, Friends of Sabeel North America, Jews for Global Justice, and St. Francis of Assisi Church. A coalition of peace and social justice groups and spiritual organizations co-sponsored the event. These included: Bridgeport United Church of Christ, Education WithOut Borders, KBOO Community Radio, Living Earth Gatherings, Oregon PeaceWorks, Oregon Peace Institute, Palestinian Arab American Association, Pax Christi Portland, Portland Catholic Worker, Portland Peaceful Response Coalition and The Portland Alliance newspaper.
This program was produced and edited by Sid Brown and Judy Fiestal
Friday, June 24, 2005.9 – 10 a.m. PDT
www.kboo.fm
Speakers: Cindy and Craig Corrie, Klaled and Samah Nasrallah, Donna Baranksi-WalkerMC: Lisa Hamid
Highlights from Portland’s “In Rachel’s Name” event will be broadcast worldwide on the internet on Friday, June 24, 9 – 10 a.m. PDT. Listeners all over the world are just three clicks away from hearing the how after the death of their daughter Rachel, Cindy and Craig Corrie went to Rafah, Gaza where they befriended Samah and Khaled Nasrallah and their three children.
Rachel was murdered trying to prevent the demolition of the Nasrallah home by an Israeli military Caterpillar bulldozer paid for by the U.S. government.
The Corries and Nasrallahs are touring U.S. cities under the auspices of The Rebuilding Alliance. The goal of the tour is to raise funds to rebuild the Nasrallah’s home and eventually rebuild the hundreds of homes that have been demolished - sometimes with people living within them - during Israel’s illegal, immoral and insane occupation of Palestine, an aggression now lasting 38 years.
On Thursday, June 16, a capacity crowd of 500 filled St. Francis of Assisi Church in Portland, Oregon, donating $4,600 to begin rebuilding one home. This heartfelt people-to-people act of compassion was one community’s response and a small step towards making restitution for the crimes against humanity that have been committed by the governments of the United States and Israel. Lest we forget: destroying homes, killing innocent civilians, traumatizing children, engaging in collective punishment against an entire people, and depriving people of food, water, medical care, employment, education and dignity is terrorism.
This powerfully moving, informative and inspirational event was sponsored by: Americans United for Palestinian Human Rights, Friends of Sabeel North America, Jews for Global Justice, and St. Francis of Assisi Church. A coalition of peace and social justice groups and spiritual organizations co-sponsored the event. These included: Bridgeport United Church of Christ, Education WithOut Borders, KBOO Community Radio, Living Earth Gatherings, Oregon PeaceWorks, Oregon Peace Institute, Palestinian Arab American Association, Pax Christi Portland, Portland Catholic Worker, Portland Peaceful Response Coalition and The Portland Alliance newspaper.
This program was produced and edited by Sid Brown and Judy Fiestal
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Deadline August 15 for Arab Comedy Fest Entries
New York Arab-American Comedy Festival is Seeking Submissions
The New York Arab-American Comedy Festival is seeking submissions from Arab-American artists for its 3rd annual Festival which will take place in New York City from November 13-16, 2005. Last year’s Festival was a great success thanks to the work of the talented Arab-American artists involved and the support of the entire Arab-American community. We plan on making this year’s Festival even bigger and more visible. It is our goal to produce a Festival this fall which will attract even more positive media coverage for the artists and the community as well as provide an excellent industry showcase for all the Arab-American artists who participate.
The Festival will be divided into three parts: Comedic theater, stand up comedy and comedic films. The details for the submissions are as follows:
· Comedic theater: We are seeking comedic theater pieces not to exceed 30 minutes in length. The works can be one acts or excerpts from a longer work. The pieces do not have to be Arab themed. Please included with your submission, contact information and short bio, script, with character breakdown, and a one paragraph blurb about the play. If the play has been staged already, you can submit a videotape of the play.
· Stand up comedy: Please submit a VHS or DVD of 8-10 minutes of your stand up comedy. The comedy does not have to be Arab themed.
· Comedic Films: We are seeking any length, from shorts to features, of comedic films that have been made by Arab-Americans. You can submit the film on VHS or DVD. The films do not have to be Arab themed. Please include contact information, short bio and a one paragraph blurb about the film.All submissions must be RECEIVED by August 15, 2005. Due to time constraints, any submissions received after the deadline will not be considered for this year's Festival. Submissions should be sent to the New York Arab-American Comedy Festival and addressed to the attention of the Festival's General manger Elias EL-Hage at 317 West 95th Street, Suite HG, New York, NY 10025. If you would like your submission returned, please include a self-addressed stamped return envelope.We will be informing artists about the Festival's selections by September 1, 2005. If you have any questions, please contact either Dean Obeidallah at Dean@arabcomedy.org, Maysoon Zayid at Maysoon@arabcomedy.org or Elias El-Hage at Elias@arabcomedy.org.
Please check our website www.arabcomedy.org for periodic updates and to read the media coverage the past Festivals received.
We look forward to receiving your submissions!
Dean Obeidallah Maysoon Zayid Elias El-Hage
The New York Arab-American Comedy Festival is seeking submissions from Arab-American artists for its 3rd annual Festival which will take place in New York City from November 13-16, 2005. Last year’s Festival was a great success thanks to the work of the talented Arab-American artists involved and the support of the entire Arab-American community. We plan on making this year’s Festival even bigger and more visible. It is our goal to produce a Festival this fall which will attract even more positive media coverage for the artists and the community as well as provide an excellent industry showcase for all the Arab-American artists who participate.
The Festival will be divided into three parts: Comedic theater, stand up comedy and comedic films. The details for the submissions are as follows:
· Comedic theater: We are seeking comedic theater pieces not to exceed 30 minutes in length. The works can be one acts or excerpts from a longer work. The pieces do not have to be Arab themed. Please included with your submission, contact information and short bio, script, with character breakdown, and a one paragraph blurb about the play. If the play has been staged already, you can submit a videotape of the play.
· Stand up comedy: Please submit a VHS or DVD of 8-10 minutes of your stand up comedy. The comedy does not have to be Arab themed.
· Comedic Films: We are seeking any length, from shorts to features, of comedic films that have been made by Arab-Americans. You can submit the film on VHS or DVD. The films do not have to be Arab themed. Please include contact information, short bio and a one paragraph blurb about the film.All submissions must be RECEIVED by August 15, 2005. Due to time constraints, any submissions received after the deadline will not be considered for this year's Festival. Submissions should be sent to the New York Arab-American Comedy Festival and addressed to the attention of the Festival's General manger Elias EL-Hage at 317 West 95th Street, Suite HG, New York, NY 10025. If you would like your submission returned, please include a self-addressed stamped return envelope.We will be informing artists about the Festival's selections by September 1, 2005. If you have any questions, please contact either Dean Obeidallah at Dean@arabcomedy.org, Maysoon Zayid at Maysoon@arabcomedy.org or Elias El-Hage at Elias@arabcomedy.org.
Please check our website www.arabcomedy.org for periodic updates and to read the media coverage the past Festivals received.
We look forward to receiving your submissions!
Dean Obeidallah Maysoon Zayid Elias El-Hage
Michigan Palestine Office organizes Forum on Diaspora
Subject: Michigan Palestinian American Community Town Hall Meeting re Our Connection to Palestine Present and Future
To: All concerned Palestinians in Metro Detroit & Ann Arbor area
From: Basima Farhat & Paul Salameh of Ramallah Club, George Khoury of Bir Zeit Society, Hasan Newash of the Palestine Office Michigan, and Dr. Karma Nabulsi & Randa Jamal of Civitas (originated at Oxford University)
Please attend our Palestinian Community Town Hall Meeting to explore Michigan's Palestinian Diaspora Community needs and concerns. This is part of a global effort conducted among Palestinian Diaspora communities across the globe. See the attachments above and summary below for more details.
Meeting Time & Date: 6:30 PM, Tuesday June 28th. (Finger food provided; program will conclude at 9:30 PM)
Place: St. Mary's Cultural Center, East Room
18100 Merriman Rd. ( between 6 & 7 Mile Rd.)
Livonia, MI 48152
Admission: Free
All adult Palestinians 18 and above, including those born to one Palestinian parent, are urged to participate. This is an important workshop to help shape our US role and our connection to Palestine, in the present and future. Hopefully, this will serve as a step forward towards creating our own Palestinian American representative institutions, aside from those in existence today that are based on Palestinian original town affiliation or religious beliefs.
Please help us succeed! Your attendance is very important. RSVP to the Palestine Office Michigan, 313 945-9660 by June 27th, in order to accommodate necessary logistics, i.e. food, chairs etc.
Background & Objectives
This is an invitation for the Michigan Palestinian Community to participate in workshops being conducted across the globe among Diaspora Palestinians. Originating in Nuffield College, Oxford University, in the UK, this research project aims at assessing "how Palestinian refugee communities living in exile in the Middle East, Europe, and further afield can build civic structures and mechanisms to enable better communication with their national representative and institutions, the humanitarian agencies that serve them, and other refugee communities, both inside and outside of Palestine. It is almost entirely a volunteer project, run by the communities themselves, and is facilitated by a very small team who are coordinating the activities in order to carry forward the voices of the refugees themselves to the relevant bodies, and bring the urgent needs of the Palestinian refugees to the attention of the international community. This project will restore the vital links between all tiers of Palestinian civil society, and reconnect them with their national representative the PLO and national institutions that have suffered fragmentation in the past decade.
This project gives the Palestinian refugee and exile communities the chance to specify the structures and mechanisms for communication with concerned parties and identify their own priorities. This initiative does not seek to limit or specify the structures, mechanisms, and priorities articulated by the refugees. It provides a practical service to those communities, through which members of those communities can define their own needs, in their own voices. The task of the project team is to bring those voices forward. The project is based on the belief that opinion polls and surveys are not the most authentic way to discover the real needs and choices of Palestinian refugees. Participatory involvement where people are allowed to speak for themselves is a more valuable and trustworthy methodology."
Finally, and repeating from above, this town hall meeting will serve as a step forward towards creating our own Palestinian American representative institutions, aside from those in existence today that are based on Palestinian original town affiliation or religious beliefs. Please help us succeed! Your attendance is very important. RSVP to the Palestine Office Michigan, 313 945-9660 by June 27th.
On behalf of the Ad Hoc Committee, I look forward to seeing you on the Eve of June 28th at St. Mary's Cultural Center East Room. 3r cul.
Hasan Newash
Palestine Office Michigan
313 945-9660
To: All concerned Palestinians in Metro Detroit & Ann Arbor area
From: Basima Farhat & Paul Salameh of Ramallah Club, George Khoury of Bir Zeit Society, Hasan Newash of the Palestine Office Michigan, and Dr. Karma Nabulsi & Randa Jamal of Civitas (originated at Oxford University)
Please attend our Palestinian Community Town Hall Meeting to explore Michigan's Palestinian Diaspora Community needs and concerns. This is part of a global effort conducted among Palestinian Diaspora communities across the globe. See the attachments above and summary below for more details.
Meeting Time & Date: 6:30 PM, Tuesday June 28th. (Finger food provided; program will conclude at 9:30 PM)
Place: St. Mary's Cultural Center, East Room
18100 Merriman Rd. ( between 6 & 7 Mile Rd.)
Livonia, MI 48152
Admission: Free
All adult Palestinians 18 and above, including those born to one Palestinian parent, are urged to participate. This is an important workshop to help shape our US role and our connection to Palestine, in the present and future. Hopefully, this will serve as a step forward towards creating our own Palestinian American representative institutions, aside from those in existence today that are based on Palestinian original town affiliation or religious beliefs.
Please help us succeed! Your attendance is very important. RSVP to the Palestine Office Michigan, 313 945-9660 by June 27th, in order to accommodate necessary logistics, i.e. food, chairs etc.
Background & Objectives
This is an invitation for the Michigan Palestinian Community to participate in workshops being conducted across the globe among Diaspora Palestinians. Originating in Nuffield College, Oxford University, in the UK, this research project aims at assessing "how Palestinian refugee communities living in exile in the Middle East, Europe, and further afield can build civic structures and mechanisms to enable better communication with their national representative and institutions, the humanitarian agencies that serve them, and other refugee communities, both inside and outside of Palestine. It is almost entirely a volunteer project, run by the communities themselves, and is facilitated by a very small team who are coordinating the activities in order to carry forward the voices of the refugees themselves to the relevant bodies, and bring the urgent needs of the Palestinian refugees to the attention of the international community. This project will restore the vital links between all tiers of Palestinian civil society, and reconnect them with their national representative the PLO and national institutions that have suffered fragmentation in the past decade.
This project gives the Palestinian refugee and exile communities the chance to specify the structures and mechanisms for communication with concerned parties and identify their own priorities. This initiative does not seek to limit or specify the structures, mechanisms, and priorities articulated by the refugees. It provides a practical service to those communities, through which members of those communities can define their own needs, in their own voices. The task of the project team is to bring those voices forward. The project is based on the belief that opinion polls and surveys are not the most authentic way to discover the real needs and choices of Palestinian refugees. Participatory involvement where people are allowed to speak for themselves is a more valuable and trustworthy methodology."
Finally, and repeating from above, this town hall meeting will serve as a step forward towards creating our own Palestinian American representative institutions, aside from those in existence today that are based on Palestinian original town affiliation or religious beliefs. Please help us succeed! Your attendance is very important. RSVP to the Palestine Office Michigan, 313 945-9660 by June 27th.
On behalf of the Ad Hoc Committee, I look forward to seeing you on the Eve of June 28th at St. Mary's Cultural Center East Room. 3r cul.
Hasan Newash
Palestine Office Michigan
313 945-9660
Friday, June 17, 2005
Group says abuse and torture at Guantanamo Bya is okay ...
***NOTE*** This release has been posted online at:
http://www.moveamericaforward.com
/index.php/MAF/MAFNews
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 17, 2005
CONTACT: Mark Washburn, Executive Director – Move America Forward
(916) 441-6197 or
Mark@MoveAmericaForward.org
“I LOVE GITMO” CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED BY MOVE AMERICA FORWARD
(SACRAMENTO) – The non-profit group that supports our troops and the war against terrorism, Move America Forward (website: www.MoveAmericaForward.org), has launched a campaign to rally public support for the Detention Center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
The “I LOVE GITMO” campaign will take to the airwaves in the form of paid commercials urging Americans to support the men and women operating the terrorist detention facility at Guantanamo Bay.
The commercials will target those individuals who have put forth false charges about the operations at the facility so that their constituents can know about their “Blame America First” antics. One example is Illinois Senator, Dick Durbin who said GITMO and those running it had created an environment akin to the "Nazis, Soviets in their gulags, or some mad regime -- Pol Pot or others."
“GITMO is a key arsenal in the fight against terrorism, and Americans must stand behind the heroic men and women of the Armed Forces who serve proudly there,” said Howard Kaloogian, Co-Chair of Move America Forward.
The campaign to support GITMO was launched on Thursday with the release of the “I LOVE GITMO” bumper sticker. Thousands of these bumper stickers have been sold in the first 24 hours they were available online at www.MoveAmericaForward.org
“These terrorists detained are not common criminals; they are enemy combatants in our war against terrorism. They are not entitled to all of the rights that someone arrested in this country gets. Just like we held German and Japanese prisoners of war during World War II, we have to confine enemy combatants so they stop killing Americans serving their country in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Kaloogian added.
On the website Move America Forward notes that the food served to the terrorist detainees and terrorist suspects held at GITMO is better in many cases than the food being served to our troops in the Armed Services. Congressional decree prevents the military from serving MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat – vacuum packed sealed food bags served to U.S. troops) to detainees because it would be considered “abuse.”
Instead, in the past week the anti-American terrorists and terrorist suspects held at GITMO have been served:
*Orange Glazed Chicken
*Rice Pilaf
*Steamed Peas & Mushrooms
*Fruit Roupee
In addition, on Ramadan the terrorists held at GITMO are served lamb, dates and honey as part of their religious observance.
GITMO detainees also are provided prayer mats and prayer oils and are allowed to pray five times per day – something that even U.S. schoolchildren are forbidden from doing.
“In recent days we’ve seen certain liberal politicians have the audacity to undermine American troops by falsely accusing them of torture and misconduct, including bogus charges of desecrating the Koran” said Melanie Morgan, Co-Chair of Move America Forward.
“These shameless individuals, interested in selling magazines or rallying their leftist political followers, are willing to denigrate the important mission being conducted by our troops in Guantanamo Bay.
“By falsely provoking anti-American sentiment overseas, these domestic enemies who have fanned the flames of a ‘Gulag at Guantanamo’ are jeopardizing the lives and well being of our servicemen and women stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Morgan.
# # #
http://www.moveamericaforward.com
/index.php/MAF/MAFNews
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 17, 2005
CONTACT: Mark Washburn, Executive Director – Move America Forward
(916) 441-6197 or
Mark@MoveAmericaForward.org
“I LOVE GITMO” CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED BY MOVE AMERICA FORWARD
(SACRAMENTO) – The non-profit group that supports our troops and the war against terrorism, Move America Forward (website: www.MoveAmericaForward.org), has launched a campaign to rally public support for the Detention Center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
The “I LOVE GITMO” campaign will take to the airwaves in the form of paid commercials urging Americans to support the men and women operating the terrorist detention facility at Guantanamo Bay.
The commercials will target those individuals who have put forth false charges about the operations at the facility so that their constituents can know about their “Blame America First” antics. One example is Illinois Senator, Dick Durbin who said GITMO and those running it had created an environment akin to the "Nazis, Soviets in their gulags, or some mad regime -- Pol Pot or others."
“GITMO is a key arsenal in the fight against terrorism, and Americans must stand behind the heroic men and women of the Armed Forces who serve proudly there,” said Howard Kaloogian, Co-Chair of Move America Forward.
The campaign to support GITMO was launched on Thursday with the release of the “I LOVE GITMO” bumper sticker. Thousands of these bumper stickers have been sold in the first 24 hours they were available online at www.MoveAmericaForward.org
“These terrorists detained are not common criminals; they are enemy combatants in our war against terrorism. They are not entitled to all of the rights that someone arrested in this country gets. Just like we held German and Japanese prisoners of war during World War II, we have to confine enemy combatants so they stop killing Americans serving their country in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Kaloogian added.
On the website Move America Forward notes that the food served to the terrorist detainees and terrorist suspects held at GITMO is better in many cases than the food being served to our troops in the Armed Services. Congressional decree prevents the military from serving MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat – vacuum packed sealed food bags served to U.S. troops) to detainees because it would be considered “abuse.”
Instead, in the past week the anti-American terrorists and terrorist suspects held at GITMO have been served:
*Orange Glazed Chicken
*Rice Pilaf
*Steamed Peas & Mushrooms
*Fruit Roupee
In addition, on Ramadan the terrorists held at GITMO are served lamb, dates and honey as part of their religious observance.
GITMO detainees also are provided prayer mats and prayer oils and are allowed to pray five times per day – something that even U.S. schoolchildren are forbidden from doing.
“In recent days we’ve seen certain liberal politicians have the audacity to undermine American troops by falsely accusing them of torture and misconduct, including bogus charges of desecrating the Koran” said Melanie Morgan, Co-Chair of Move America Forward.
“These shameless individuals, interested in selling magazines or rallying their leftist political followers, are willing to denigrate the important mission being conducted by our troops in Guantanamo Bay.
“By falsely provoking anti-American sentiment overseas, these domestic enemies who have fanned the flames of a ‘Gulag at Guantanamo’ are jeopardizing the lives and well being of our servicemen and women stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Morgan.
# # #
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Chicagoan announces candidacy for presidency of Egypt, Jun 15, 2005
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago man declares candidacy for President of Egypt
Chicago, Illinois, USA (6/15/05) Writer and community activist Aladdin Elaasar has announced today his official nomination for president of Egypt. Elaasar hopes his candidacy brings democracy to the Arab country. For the last 24 years Egypt has been ruled by President Hosni Mubarak, 78, who has recently opened the door for other candidates to run for the presidency. Although Egypt is a constitutional republic, and its constitution states term limits, for more than 50 years Egypt has had 3 presidents from the military institution who held the presidency uncontestedly.
Elaasar has lived in the Chicago land area since 1992. He fled the Middle East after the Gulf War with his wife and his eldest son. He has three other children who were born in Chicago. Mr. Elaasar is a prolific writer. He wrote for several publications in the US and the Middle East in both English and Arabic. He has also worked as a translator, counselor, bilingual teacher, and project manager in the Silicon Valley. He is author of a recently released book titled ?Silent Victims? that discusses the impact of 9/11 on communities in the USA.
Elaasar was born, raised and educated in Cairo, Egypt in 1962. He graduated from Ain Shams University in Cairo, in 1983, with a B. A. in English. He speaks English and Arabic fluently, in addition to French and Spanish. ?This is the first time in Egypt?s modern history that a native Egyptian runs for president of Egypt. Egyptians never had the chance before to run for president, nor elect their chosen leaders freely. It?s about time for Egyptians after 50 years of oppressive military rule to have a free elections and vote for the candidate they choose. Mr. Elaasar said.
Egypt, a country of 75 million people has the highest rate of unemployment. Corruption within the government is rampant and the country has been ruled for the last 25 years by the emergency law. Thousands of government opponents are in jail without a trial. Elaasar hopes to bring peace, freedom, democracy and the rule of the law to his native country of Egypt. ?Egypt, more than ever needs democracy and respect for human dignity and the rights of women and minorities. We need to do a lot of reform; legal, economic and social change. And peace should be our unshakeable commitment", Elaasar said.
END-
For more info, please contact:
Committee for Freedom and Democracy in Egypt
1015 Higgins Quarters, Suite 115
Hoffman Estates, IL 60194
Email: omaraladin@aol.com
Or Call 847 668 4206, or 847 310-0342
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago man declares candidacy for President of Egypt
Chicago, Illinois, USA (6/15/05) Writer and community activist Aladdin Elaasar has announced today his official nomination for president of Egypt. Elaasar hopes his candidacy brings democracy to the Arab country. For the last 24 years Egypt has been ruled by President Hosni Mubarak, 78, who has recently opened the door for other candidates to run for the presidency. Although Egypt is a constitutional republic, and its constitution states term limits, for more than 50 years Egypt has had 3 presidents from the military institution who held the presidency uncontestedly.
Elaasar has lived in the Chicago land area since 1992. He fled the Middle East after the Gulf War with his wife and his eldest son. He has three other children who were born in Chicago. Mr. Elaasar is a prolific writer. He wrote for several publications in the US and the Middle East in both English and Arabic. He has also worked as a translator, counselor, bilingual teacher, and project manager in the Silicon Valley. He is author of a recently released book titled ?Silent Victims? that discusses the impact of 9/11 on communities in the USA.
Elaasar was born, raised and educated in Cairo, Egypt in 1962. He graduated from Ain Shams University in Cairo, in 1983, with a B. A. in English. He speaks English and Arabic fluently, in addition to French and Spanish. ?This is the first time in Egypt?s modern history that a native Egyptian runs for president of Egypt. Egyptians never had the chance before to run for president, nor elect their chosen leaders freely. It?s about time for Egyptians after 50 years of oppressive military rule to have a free elections and vote for the candidate they choose. Mr. Elaasar said.
Egypt, a country of 75 million people has the highest rate of unemployment. Corruption within the government is rampant and the country has been ruled for the last 25 years by the emergency law. Thousands of government opponents are in jail without a trial. Elaasar hopes to bring peace, freedom, democracy and the rule of the law to his native country of Egypt. ?Egypt, more than ever needs democracy and respect for human dignity and the rights of women and minorities. We need to do a lot of reform; legal, economic and social change. And peace should be our unshakeable commitment", Elaasar said.
END-
For more info, please contact:
Committee for Freedom and Democracy in Egypt
1015 Higgins Quarters, Suite 115
Hoffman Estates, IL 60194
Email: omaraladin@aol.com
Or Call 847 668 4206, or 847 310-0342
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Farouk Systems sponsors 2005 Miss Universe Pageant
If you would like additional photos please feel free to contact me.
For Immediate Release Contact: Janice R. McCafferty
2005 (773) 736-9034
JaniceJRM@aol.com
Farouk Systems Sponsors
The 2005 Miss Universe Pageant
Houston, TX – Farouk Systems, Inc. is the proud sponsor of the 2005 Miss Universe Pageant. As the official hair care sponsor, Farouk Systems and their international team of hairstylists traveled to the exotic shores of Bangkok, Thailand. This year’s Miss Universe Pageant featured 81 beauties from Albania to Zambia, riding elephants, touring temples and frolicking on exotic beaches during the live broadcast.
As the official hair care sponsor, Farouk Systems, Inc. supplied products, tools and stylists for all the delegates, celebrity judges and on-air hosts from Access Hollywood, Nancy O’Dell and Billy Bush. Our international teams of hairstylists were on hand 3 weeks prior to the live broadcast. They assumed the responsibility for all the delegates’ hair needs for each pre-taped segment.
The newly crowned Miss Universe, Natalie Glebova (Miss Canada) will receive a one year supply of products and tools from Farouk Systems as part of her lavish prize package. President, Shauky Gulamani of Farouk Systems, Inc. created her award wining hairstyle during the pageant and events leading up to the competition.
Please note that many other hair stylists and hair care manufacturers might seek the claim that their products were used prior to the Miss Universe Pageant. However, each delegate left for Thailand one month prior to the actual live broadcast. Farouk Systems and their team of hairdressers performed all the necessary touch-ups, styling and/or cutting for the actual live broadcast using Farouk Systems products!
Photo Caption:
(left to right)
Shauky Gulamani, President of Farouk Systems with Miss Universe Natalie Glebova
For Immediate Release Contact: Janice R. McCafferty
2005 (773) 736-9034
JaniceJRM@aol.com
Farouk Systems Sponsors
The 2005 Miss Universe Pageant
Houston, TX – Farouk Systems, Inc. is the proud sponsor of the 2005 Miss Universe Pageant. As the official hair care sponsor, Farouk Systems and their international team of hairstylists traveled to the exotic shores of Bangkok, Thailand. This year’s Miss Universe Pageant featured 81 beauties from Albania to Zambia, riding elephants, touring temples and frolicking on exotic beaches during the live broadcast.
As the official hair care sponsor, Farouk Systems, Inc. supplied products, tools and stylists for all the delegates, celebrity judges and on-air hosts from Access Hollywood, Nancy O’Dell and Billy Bush. Our international teams of hairstylists were on hand 3 weeks prior to the live broadcast. They assumed the responsibility for all the delegates’ hair needs for each pre-taped segment.
The newly crowned Miss Universe, Natalie Glebova (Miss Canada) will receive a one year supply of products and tools from Farouk Systems as part of her lavish prize package. President, Shauky Gulamani of Farouk Systems, Inc. created her award wining hairstyle during the pageant and events leading up to the competition.
Please note that many other hair stylists and hair care manufacturers might seek the claim that their products were used prior to the Miss Universe Pageant. However, each delegate left for Thailand one month prior to the actual live broadcast. Farouk Systems and their team of hairdressers performed all the necessary touch-ups, styling and/or cutting for the actual live broadcast using Farouk Systems products!
Photo Caption:
(left to right)
Shauky Gulamani, President of Farouk Systems with Miss Universe Natalie Glebova
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Caterpillar Protest in New York City June 14
PROTEST CAT'S SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL'S SUSTAINED DESTRUCTION OF PALESTINIANHOMES AND RIGHTS AND CAT'S CORPORATE SOCIAL IRRESPONSIBILITY
This week, the Israeli government is preparing to demolish 88 morePalestinian homes in East Jerusalem using Caterpillar bulldozers. Simultaneously, in Manhattan CAT executives, in an arrogant display ofcorporate duplicity, will be leading a Tuesday June 14 workshop onSustainable Development and Corporate Social Responsibility at aconference for business leaders from around the world at the WaldorfAstoria Hotel.
http://www.conferenceboard.org/
pdf_free/agendas/985005.pdf
pg. 11,General Session B)
Given Caterpillar's role in supporting Israel's violation ofPalestinian rights, CAT executives are the last people who should betalking about sustainable development and corporate socialresponsibility.
According to the Israeli Committee Against HouseDemolitions (www.icahd.org), "Since 1967 Israel has demolished almost12,000 Palestinian homes, leaving some 70,000 without shelter andtraumatized." The Caterpillar D9 and D10 bulldozers sold to Israel aredesigned specifically to destroy Palestinian land, roads, watersupplies and sewer systems and to uproot hundreds of thousands of fruitand olive trees, the main livelihood for many Palestinians.
PROTEST TIME: Tuesday June 14 from 8:15 - 9:15 AM
PROTEST LOCATION: We will gather on the steps of St. Bartholomew's Church on Park Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets. Promptly at 8:15AM we will walk one block to the site of the protest, the front of theWaldorf Astoria Hotel on Park Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets.
PROTEST ORGANIZERS: This peaceful protest was oganized by an ad hoc New York City group in support of the national Stop CAT Campaign. Todate the protest has been endorsed by the International SolidarityMovement - NYC, NYU Students for Justice in Palestine and Queer Resistance for Palestine. Please ask your group to endorse this protest.
PROTEST BACKGROUND: Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch andothers denounce the Israeli demolition of Palestinian homes andproperty as a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention. The Centerfor Constitutional Rights has brought a lawsuit against Caterpillar forproviding Israel with bulldozers, knowing they will be used to commitwar crimes and human rights violations. Nonetheless, at CAT's annual shareholder meeting on April 13, 2005Caterpillar executives led the defeat of a shareholder resolutioncalling for Caterpillar to investigate whether their sale of bulldozersto Israel violates the CAT "good global citizen" code of conduct.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE STOP CAT CAMPAIGN:
www.catdestroyshomes.org,
www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org,
www.endtheoccupation.org
FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT THE JUNE 14 PROTEST: ism_nyc@hotmail.com
This week, the Israeli government is preparing to demolish 88 morePalestinian homes in East Jerusalem using Caterpillar bulldozers. Simultaneously, in Manhattan CAT executives, in an arrogant display ofcorporate duplicity, will be leading a Tuesday June 14 workshop onSustainable Development and Corporate Social Responsibility at aconference for business leaders from around the world at the WaldorfAstoria Hotel.
http://www.conferenceboard.org/
pdf_free/agendas/985005.pdf
pg. 11,General Session B)
Given Caterpillar's role in supporting Israel's violation ofPalestinian rights, CAT executives are the last people who should betalking about sustainable development and corporate socialresponsibility.
According to the Israeli Committee Against HouseDemolitions (www.icahd.org), "Since 1967 Israel has demolished almost12,000 Palestinian homes, leaving some 70,000 without shelter andtraumatized." The Caterpillar D9 and D10 bulldozers sold to Israel aredesigned specifically to destroy Palestinian land, roads, watersupplies and sewer systems and to uproot hundreds of thousands of fruitand olive trees, the main livelihood for many Palestinians.
PROTEST TIME: Tuesday June 14 from 8:15 - 9:15 AM
PROTEST LOCATION: We will gather on the steps of St. Bartholomew's Church on Park Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets. Promptly at 8:15AM we will walk one block to the site of the protest, the front of theWaldorf Astoria Hotel on Park Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets.
PROTEST ORGANIZERS: This peaceful protest was oganized by an ad hoc New York City group in support of the national Stop CAT Campaign. Todate the protest has been endorsed by the International SolidarityMovement - NYC, NYU Students for Justice in Palestine and Queer Resistance for Palestine. Please ask your group to endorse this protest.
PROTEST BACKGROUND: Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch andothers denounce the Israeli demolition of Palestinian homes andproperty as a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention. The Centerfor Constitutional Rights has brought a lawsuit against Caterpillar forproviding Israel with bulldozers, knowing they will be used to commitwar crimes and human rights violations. Nonetheless, at CAT's annual shareholder meeting on April 13, 2005Caterpillar executives led the defeat of a shareholder resolutioncalling for Caterpillar to investigate whether their sale of bulldozersto Israel violates the CAT "good global citizen" code of conduct.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE STOP CAT CAMPAIGN:
www.catdestroyshomes.org,
www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org,
www.endtheoccupation.org
FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT THE JUNE 14 PROTEST: ism_nyc@hotmail.com
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Pahlavi joins hunger strike against Iranian brutality
Reza Pahlavi of Iran Announces Hunger Strike in Support of Iranian Political Prisoners
FAIRFAX, Va., June 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Reza Pahlavi of Iran, in response to a direct invitation by political prisoners in Iran, pledged his solidarity and announced his plans to go on a three day hunger strike starting Friday, June 10.
"Solidarity with political prisoners of Iran and support for the legitimate quest for freedom, human rights and economic opportunity in Iran transcends all political boundaries and ideologies," said Reza Pahlavi, opposition leader to the clerical regime of Iran. Yesterday, in a communique, signed by numerous political prisoners, in Iran, the June 17 presidential elections were rejected as "sham and undemocratic."
Calling for a boycott of the elections, the communique also cited the regime's abhorrent violations of human rights in Iran and announced the collective plan of the prisoners to go on a hunger strike as an act of nonviolent defiance of the regime. Highlighting the demands of the communique, Reza Pahlavi said, "Iranians of all walks of life demand: freedom of speech; the unequivocal observance of human rights, by the regime; the immediate release of all political prisoners.
Just last week, during a press conference in Paris, the 44 year old leader called for a national boycott of the scheduled June 17th presidential election, calling it nothing short of political theatre by the regime.
Reza Pahlavi, who has been leading a campaign of political defiance against the Theocracy of Iran, is the former Crown Prince of Iran. He is an accomplished jet fighter pilot and graduate of US Air Force training program at the former Reese Air Force Base. Author of Winds of Change, The Future of Democracy in Iran, he is a Political Science graduate of the University of Southern California.SOURCE Secretariet of Reza Pahlavi
-30-
06/08/2005 /
CONTACT: Mr. Kamran Beigi of Secretariet of Reza Pahlavi,
+1-202-498-4375/
/First Call Analyst: /
/FCMN Contact: /
/Web site: http://www.rezapahlavi.org/
FAIRFAX, Va., June 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Reza Pahlavi of Iran, in response to a direct invitation by political prisoners in Iran, pledged his solidarity and announced his plans to go on a three day hunger strike starting Friday, June 10.
"Solidarity with political prisoners of Iran and support for the legitimate quest for freedom, human rights and economic opportunity in Iran transcends all political boundaries and ideologies," said Reza Pahlavi, opposition leader to the clerical regime of Iran. Yesterday, in a communique, signed by numerous political prisoners, in Iran, the June 17 presidential elections were rejected as "sham and undemocratic."
Calling for a boycott of the elections, the communique also cited the regime's abhorrent violations of human rights in Iran and announced the collective plan of the prisoners to go on a hunger strike as an act of nonviolent defiance of the regime. Highlighting the demands of the communique, Reza Pahlavi said, "Iranians of all walks of life demand: freedom of speech; the unequivocal observance of human rights, by the regime; the immediate release of all political prisoners.
Just last week, during a press conference in Paris, the 44 year old leader called for a national boycott of the scheduled June 17th presidential election, calling it nothing short of political theatre by the regime.
Reza Pahlavi, who has been leading a campaign of political defiance against the Theocracy of Iran, is the former Crown Prince of Iran. He is an accomplished jet fighter pilot and graduate of US Air Force training program at the former Reese Air Force Base. Author of Winds of Change, The Future of Democracy in Iran, he is a Political Science graduate of the University of Southern California.SOURCE Secretariet of Reza Pahlavi
-30-
06/08/2005 /
CONTACT: Mr. Kamran Beigi of Secretariet of Reza Pahlavi,
+1-202-498-4375/
/First Call Analyst: /
/FCMN Contact: /
/Web site: http://www.rezapahlavi.org/
ADC joins anti-Racism conferencein Cordoba, Spain
ADC Press Release:
ADC Joins LCCR at OSCE Conference in Cordoba, Spain
Washington DC, June 8—The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is pleased to be participating in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) conference on Anti-Semitism and on Other Forms of Intolerance in Cordoba, Spain, taking place June 8-9, 2005.
The OSCE is the world's largest regional security organization whose 55 participating states span the geographical area from Vancouver to Vladivostok.
ADC is the only organization representing an Arab community, of the 55 countries involved, at the OSCE. ADC Director of Legal Policy Kareem Shora, JD, is attending on behalf of ADC as part of a larger multicultural and multiethnic non-governmental delegation sponsored by the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR).
ADC is an active organizational member of LCCR and over 50 million Americans belong to organizations that comprise LCCR.The OSCE conference aims to build upon the general and specific discussion within the OSCE on racism, xenophobia, and discrimination of any kind, focusing specifically on Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. For more information on the conference or the OSCE please see: http://www.osce.org/
The first day of the Cordoba conference focuses on anti-Semitism, while on the second, delegates will examine the growing phenomenon of Islamophobia, as well as problems faced by Christians and other religious communities. Shora will be presenting remarks at a panel on "Islamphobia."
-30-
============================================
Celebrate ADC's 25 Years of Dedicated Service to Civil and Human Rights by:CONTRIBUTING TO AND/OR JOINING ADChttps://www.adc.org/membership/For more information, contact Laila Al-Qatami at:American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC)4201 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20008Tel: 202-244-2990 Fax 202-244-3196 E-mail: adc@adc.orgwww.adc.org
ADC Joins LCCR at OSCE Conference in Cordoba, Spain
Washington DC, June 8—The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is pleased to be participating in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) conference on Anti-Semitism and on Other Forms of Intolerance in Cordoba, Spain, taking place June 8-9, 2005.
The OSCE is the world's largest regional security organization whose 55 participating states span the geographical area from Vancouver to Vladivostok.
ADC is the only organization representing an Arab community, of the 55 countries involved, at the OSCE. ADC Director of Legal Policy Kareem Shora, JD, is attending on behalf of ADC as part of a larger multicultural and multiethnic non-governmental delegation sponsored by the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR).
ADC is an active organizational member of LCCR and over 50 million Americans belong to organizations that comprise LCCR.The OSCE conference aims to build upon the general and specific discussion within the OSCE on racism, xenophobia, and discrimination of any kind, focusing specifically on Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. For more information on the conference or the OSCE please see: http://www.osce.org/
The first day of the Cordoba conference focuses on anti-Semitism, while on the second, delegates will examine the growing phenomenon of Islamophobia, as well as problems faced by Christians and other religious communities. Shora will be presenting remarks at a panel on "Islamphobia."
-30-
============================================
Celebrate ADC's 25 Years of Dedicated Service to Civil and Human Rights by:CONTRIBUTING TO AND/OR JOINING ADChttps://www.adc.org/membership/For more information, contact Laila Al-Qatami at:American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC)4201 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20008Tel: 202-244-2990 Fax 202-244-3196 E-mail: adc@adc.orgwww.adc.org
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Subscribe to Ray's
Join Ray Hanania on the
Follow Ray Hanania's 
