ADC Press Release
Anti Arabism Now at a Port Near You
Washington, DC, February 21, 2006—The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is concerned by controversy surrounding the acquisition of the London-based company, Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Co. (P&O), by Thunder FZE, a subsidiary of the UAE-based Dubai World Ports (DP World).
The White House, the National Security Council, Department of Homeland Security, and the Treasury Department's Committee on Foreign Investments have all agreed with the $6.8 billion sale. According to reports, DP World also won approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US (CFIUS), which is a US government panel with representatives from 12 agencies. CFIUS assesses security risks associated with foreign companies buying or investing in the US. CFIUS said in a statement, they "thoroughly reviewed the potential transaction and concluded they had no objection."
ADC President Mary Rose Oakar said, "ADC fully supports all measures to keep our country secure and DP World has received clearance from the highest levels of government to operate here in the US. ADC is strongly opposed to the rhetoric and bias surrounding the company solely because it is Arab owned. Those who purport that ports can be securely run by a British company, but not an Arab one, are engaging in racial profiling on the corporate level."
As it currently stands, P&O, the fourth largest ports company in the world, has been running major commercial operations at ports located in Baltimore, Miami, New Jersey, New Orleans, New York, and Philadelphia. With the recent acquisition, barring any unforeseen legislation, DP World will takeover this role, making it one of the three largest port operators in the world, with a presence in Germany, Australia, Hong Kong, and many other ports.
However, neither P&O nor DP World, or any other port company determines or sets standards for security in the US; these are determined by the US government. All port owners must abide by the Maritime Transportation Security Act, passed by Congress in 2002 and the International Ship and Port Facility Security codes enacted in 2004. Both sets of security measures are enforced in the US by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) which is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). CBP combines the inspectional workforces and broad border authorities of US Customs, US Immigration, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the entire US Border Patrol. Furthermore, CBP works to keep cargo safe through its "Container Security Initiative" whereby cargo containers destined for the US are inspected and pre-screened by CBP officers in that country.
The UAE signed onto CBP’s "Container Security Initiative" in December 2004.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Thursday, February 09, 2006
SABEEL Conference in Washington DC March 3-4
Friends of Sabeel—North America
Voice of the Palestinian Christians
From:"Sister Elaine Kelley" friends@fosna.org
Pursue Justice, Seek Peace!
working together to build a better future
in Palestine & Israel
A Sabeel Conference
March 3-4, 2006
New York Avenue Presbyterian Church
1313 New York Ave., N.W., Washington, DC
"Those who desire life and desire to see good days...let them never yield to evil but practice good; let them seek peace and pursue it." 1 Peter 3:10, 11
This conference will offer local churches and area denominational bodies, as well as other religious and secular peace and justice organizations in the DC Metro area an arena to inform ourselves, network widely and acquire practical tools to become pro-active peacemakers. We also welcome participants from throughout the United States as well as other countries.
Keynote speakers include Rev. Naim Ateek from Sabeel Jerusalem; Quaker Peace Activist Jean Zaru from Ramallah; Jeff Halper of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions from Israel; Afif Safieh Palestinian Ambassador to the U.S.; Don Wagner, a Presbyterian Minister/Advocate for Divestment; Bill Fletcher of TransAfrica on the Apartheid S. Africa divestment experience ; Professor Susan Akram of Boston U. on international human rights and humanitarian law; Professor Sara Roy of Harvard University; and many others. Workshops and panel discussions will be led by many individuals with first- hand knowledge of the Israeli/Palestinian question.
This two- day conference will bring together Christians of Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions, along with Jews, Muslims, peoples of other faiths, and secular persons. Together we will explore and affirm our shared commitment to the active non-violent pursuit of a rights-based, just peace in Palestine and Israel.
For registration, visit www.wiamep.org
For further information please contact:
Email: john.salzberg@verizon.net Tel: 202-258-0569
SABEEL DC 2708 Ontario Road, N.W., Washington, DC 20009
Coordinated with Sabeel Center Jerusalem,www.sabeel.org, and Friends of Sabeel-North America,www.fosna.org, with co-sponsorship from a broad spectrum of peace, human rights, and faith-based groups.
Sabeel Conference
Washington DC, March 3-4, 2006
Registration Form
Please print and mail this form with your registration fee.
Name
Street___________________ City ____________
State ______ Zip ______
Phone Number(s)_______________________
Email _______________________________
Religious affiliation & local church membership (if any)
Organization affiliation (if any)
Registration Fee Schedule
$85 Pre-registration (by February 14)
$100 Registration (after February 14) (All but $35 of these amounts is tax-deductible)
$50 One day only (All but $15 of this amount is tax-deductible)
$35 Student/low income fee
No fee for volunteers (Please contact Keren Batiyov at keren4L@comcast.net)
Please consider making an additional tax-deductible contribution.
Registration fees do not cover the full cost of the conference.
Payment Method (circle one): Visa MasterCard Check /Checks payable to Friends of Sabeel
Credit Card Number (print clearly)
Expiration Date: _______________
Name on Card (print)
Signature for Authorization
Billing Address
Additional tax deductible contribution ________
Total Amount _____________________
Mail registration form with your payment to:
SABEEL DC
2708 Ontario Road, N.W., Washington, DC 20009
St. James
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PalestinianChristians
The Moderator
Palestine
Voice of the Palestinian Christians
From:"Sister Elaine Kelley" friends@fosna.org
Pursue Justice, Seek Peace!
working together to build a better future
in Palestine & Israel
A Sabeel Conference
March 3-4, 2006
New York Avenue Presbyterian Church
1313 New York Ave., N.W., Washington, DC
"Those who desire life and desire to see good days...let them never yield to evil but practice good; let them seek peace and pursue it." 1 Peter 3:10, 11
This conference will offer local churches and area denominational bodies, as well as other religious and secular peace and justice organizations in the DC Metro area an arena to inform ourselves, network widely and acquire practical tools to become pro-active peacemakers. We also welcome participants from throughout the United States as well as other countries.
Keynote speakers include Rev. Naim Ateek from Sabeel Jerusalem; Quaker Peace Activist Jean Zaru from Ramallah; Jeff Halper of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions from Israel; Afif Safieh Palestinian Ambassador to the U.S.; Don Wagner, a Presbyterian Minister/Advocate for Divestment; Bill Fletcher of TransAfrica on the Apartheid S. Africa divestment experience ; Professor Susan Akram of Boston U. on international human rights and humanitarian law; Professor Sara Roy of Harvard University; and many others. Workshops and panel discussions will be led by many individuals with first- hand knowledge of the Israeli/Palestinian question.
This two- day conference will bring together Christians of Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions, along with Jews, Muslims, peoples of other faiths, and secular persons. Together we will explore and affirm our shared commitment to the active non-violent pursuit of a rights-based, just peace in Palestine and Israel.
For registration, visit www.wiamep.org
For further information please contact:
Email: john.salzberg@verizon.net Tel: 202-258-0569
SABEEL DC 2708 Ontario Road, N.W., Washington, DC 20009
Coordinated with Sabeel Center Jerusalem,www.sabeel.org, and Friends of Sabeel-North America,www.fosna.org, with co-sponsorship from a broad spectrum of peace, human rights, and faith-based groups.
Sabeel Conference
Washington DC, March 3-4, 2006
Registration Form
Please print and mail this form with your registration fee.
Name
Street___________________ City ____________
State ______ Zip ______
Phone Number(s)_______________________
Email _______________________________
Religious affiliation & local church membership (if any)
Organization affiliation (if any)
Registration Fee Schedule
$85 Pre-registration (by February 14)
$100 Registration (after February 14) (All but $35 of these amounts is tax-deductible)
$50 One day only (All but $15 of this amount is tax-deductible)
$35 Student/low income fee
No fee for volunteers (Please contact Keren Batiyov at keren4L@comcast.net)
Please consider making an additional tax-deductible contribution.
Registration fees do not cover the full cost of the conference.
Payment Method (circle one): Visa MasterCard Check /Checks payable to Friends of Sabeel
Credit Card Number (print clearly)
Expiration Date: _______________
Name on Card (print)
Signature for Authorization
Billing Address
Additional tax deductible contribution ________
Total Amount _____________________
Mail registration form with your payment to:
SABEEL DC
2708 Ontario Road, N.W., Washington, DC 20009
St. James
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PalestinianChristians
The Moderator
Palestine
GHASSAN ANDONI AND JEFF HALPER NOMINATED FOR 2006 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE
Issued by: Jenny Shields, Director, Media and Public Relations AFSC
February 3, 2006
The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), a Quaker peace and social justice
organization, has nominated two candidates for the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize: Jeff Halper from
Israel and Ghassan Andoni from the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
In a region torn by conflict, these grassroots peace activists have resolutely followed nonviolence
as the path to justice, peace and reconciliation. For decades they have worked to liberate both the Palestinian and the Israeli people from the yoke of structural violence . symbolized most clearly by the Israeli Occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. They have opposed every element of the Occupation, including settlements and the Separation Barrier, striving for equality between their peoples within the framework of sovereign and democratic states.
Ghassan Andoni is a Palestinian, a physics professor at Birzeit University and a resident of the
Christian town of Beit Sahour, next to Bethlehem. He already began his peace activities while a
college student in Iraq, leaving his studies in order to work in the Palestinian refugee camps in
Lebanon during that country’s civil war. Returning home to Palestine from Lebanon, he was
arrested by the Israeli authorities and jailed for two years for his membership in the PLO. He
subsequently traveled to the UK where, in 1983, he earned his MSc in Physics.
Once more back in Palestine, Ghassan was one of the main initiators of the famous Beit Sahour.s
tax revolt against the Israeli Occupation during the first Intifada (1987-1993), perhaps the most
effective broad-based community resistance to have been organized since the start of the
Occupation in 1967. Ghassan understood the power that nonviolence has in leading a mass
movement of liberation and utilized it effectively. After serving another jail term for his
participation in the tax revolt, he co-founded in 1988 The Palestinian Center for Rapprochement
Between Peoples, which sponsored dialogue and joint activities between Israelis and Palestinians.
As the Occupation wore on, Ghassan and Rapprochement moved from dialogue to direct
nonviolent action intended to end the Occupation. In this connection he co-founded the
International Solidarity Movement (ISM), in which international volunteers and Palestinians
initiated grassroots nonviolent actions of resistance to the oppression created by years of
occupation. In working with ISM, Ghassan has insisted that all international participants commit
themselves to nonviolence, both physical and verbal.
As he continued his peace work, Ghassan proceeded strategically. He realized that a nonviolent
movement must always be able to respond creatively and effectively to ongoing developments.
His creative, brave and proactive responses have made him one of the leading figures of the
Palestinian peace movement.
P a u l L a c e y
C h a i r p e r s o n
M a r y E l l e n M c N i s h
G e n e r a l S e c r e t a r y
American Friends Service Committee
1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-1479
Phone: 215/241-7000 • www.afsc.org
Jeff Halper is an Israeli professor of Anthropology. A Vietnam War resister in America, he
emigrated to Israel in 1973. Although he insists that Jews have a legitimate place in
Israel/Palestine, he has always rejected the exclusivity of Jewish claims to the country that has led to the displacement of Palestinian refugees and to the Occupation. As an Israeli citizen he has refused to bear arms even during his military service, and refused to serve in the Occupied
Territories. Two of his children have been imprisoned as conscientious objectors.
Jeff co-founded The Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions (ICAHD) in 1997, which
was among the first Israeli peace groups to work with Palestinians inside the Occupied
Territories. ICAHD works closely with other critical Israeli groups such as Bat Shalom, Rabbis
for Human Rights, Gush Shalom and the Alternative Information Center, as well as with
Palestinian partners such as the Land Defense Committee, Rapprochement and the Palestinian
Agricultural Relief Committee (PARC). ICAHD resists the demolition of Palestinian homes,
actions in which Jeff often displayed immense courage, sitting in front of bulldozers, confronting
Israeli soldiers and suffering arrest. He and ICAHD also organize Israelis and internationals to
rebuild demolished homes with Palestinians as acts of political resistance to the Occupation.
Through resistance to Israel.s house demolition policy, ICAHD exposes the injustice of the
Occupation and asserts the crucial role of the international civil society in bringing about change,
just as Ghassan Andoni has done with the founding of the International Solidarity Movement.
ICAHD has been well ahead of other peace organizations in its appeal to the international
community, disseminating information and networking, analyzing what Jeff calls the "matrix of
control" employed by Israel in its occupation of the West Bank and Gaza . the framework createdby strategic settlement blocs, settler-only highways and the Separation Wall. In ways that parallel the development of Rapprochement, ICAHD has come to see that reconciliation cannot be placed ahead of the restoration of justice . a justice to be brought about through nonviolent direct action and adherence to human rights.
Jeff Halper has in recent years spent a great deal of time traveling abroad to inform the public
about the .realities on the ground,. and has established ICAHD chapters in the US, the UK and
else where. His travels and writings have added to his international stature. Ghassan and Jeff arecurrently working on a book about nonviolent resistance to the Occupation. They share a
fundamental belief that Palestinians and Israelis who stand for human rights, international law,
peace, justice and reconciliation are on the same .side.. This is what makes their message
relevant and universal, and why their voices . the seldom heard voices of critical advocates of
peace and non-violence . are acknowledged in this nomination.
The American Friends Service Committee is a Quaker organization that includes people of
various faiths who are committed to social justice, peace and humanitarian service. It was the
1947 co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. The AFSC’s national headquarters is in Philadelphia.
It has nine regional and 34 area offices in the US and is active in 22 countries around the world.
Its work is based on the belief in the worth of every person and faith in the power of love to
overcome violence and injustice. Additional information about the AFSC can be found at
www.afsc.org. Ghassan Andoni can be reached at g_andoni@yahoo.com; Jeff Halper at
jeff@icahd.org.
Issued by: Jenny Shields, Director, Media and Public Relations AFSC
February 3, 2006
The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), a Quaker peace and social justice
organization, has nominated two candidates for the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize: Jeff Halper from
Israel and Ghassan Andoni from the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
In a region torn by conflict, these grassroots peace activists have resolutely followed nonviolence
as the path to justice, peace and reconciliation. For decades they have worked to liberate both the Palestinian and the Israeli people from the yoke of structural violence . symbolized most clearly by the Israeli Occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. They have opposed every element of the Occupation, including settlements and the Separation Barrier, striving for equality between their peoples within the framework of sovereign and democratic states.
Ghassan Andoni is a Palestinian, a physics professor at Birzeit University and a resident of the
Christian town of Beit Sahour, next to Bethlehem. He already began his peace activities while a
college student in Iraq, leaving his studies in order to work in the Palestinian refugee camps in
Lebanon during that country’s civil war. Returning home to Palestine from Lebanon, he was
arrested by the Israeli authorities and jailed for two years for his membership in the PLO. He
subsequently traveled to the UK where, in 1983, he earned his MSc in Physics.
Once more back in Palestine, Ghassan was one of the main initiators of the famous Beit Sahour.s
tax revolt against the Israeli Occupation during the first Intifada (1987-1993), perhaps the most
effective broad-based community resistance to have been organized since the start of the
Occupation in 1967. Ghassan understood the power that nonviolence has in leading a mass
movement of liberation and utilized it effectively. After serving another jail term for his
participation in the tax revolt, he co-founded in 1988 The Palestinian Center for Rapprochement
Between Peoples, which sponsored dialogue and joint activities between Israelis and Palestinians.
As the Occupation wore on, Ghassan and Rapprochement moved from dialogue to direct
nonviolent action intended to end the Occupation. In this connection he co-founded the
International Solidarity Movement (ISM), in which international volunteers and Palestinians
initiated grassroots nonviolent actions of resistance to the oppression created by years of
occupation. In working with ISM, Ghassan has insisted that all international participants commit
themselves to nonviolence, both physical and verbal.
As he continued his peace work, Ghassan proceeded strategically. He realized that a nonviolent
movement must always be able to respond creatively and effectively to ongoing developments.
His creative, brave and proactive responses have made him one of the leading figures of the
Palestinian peace movement.
P a u l L a c e y
C h a i r p e r s o n
M a r y E l l e n M c N i s h
G e n e r a l S e c r e t a r y
American Friends Service Committee
1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-1479
Phone: 215/241-7000 • www.afsc.org
Jeff Halper is an Israeli professor of Anthropology. A Vietnam War resister in America, he
emigrated to Israel in 1973. Although he insists that Jews have a legitimate place in
Israel/Palestine, he has always rejected the exclusivity of Jewish claims to the country that has led to the displacement of Palestinian refugees and to the Occupation. As an Israeli citizen he has refused to bear arms even during his military service, and refused to serve in the Occupied
Territories. Two of his children have been imprisoned as conscientious objectors.
Jeff co-founded The Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions (ICAHD) in 1997, which
was among the first Israeli peace groups to work with Palestinians inside the Occupied
Territories. ICAHD works closely with other critical Israeli groups such as Bat Shalom, Rabbis
for Human Rights, Gush Shalom and the Alternative Information Center, as well as with
Palestinian partners such as the Land Defense Committee, Rapprochement and the Palestinian
Agricultural Relief Committee (PARC). ICAHD resists the demolition of Palestinian homes,
actions in which Jeff often displayed immense courage, sitting in front of bulldozers, confronting
Israeli soldiers and suffering arrest. He and ICAHD also organize Israelis and internationals to
rebuild demolished homes with Palestinians as acts of political resistance to the Occupation.
Through resistance to Israel.s house demolition policy, ICAHD exposes the injustice of the
Occupation and asserts the crucial role of the international civil society in bringing about change,
just as Ghassan Andoni has done with the founding of the International Solidarity Movement.
ICAHD has been well ahead of other peace organizations in its appeal to the international
community, disseminating information and networking, analyzing what Jeff calls the "matrix of
control" employed by Israel in its occupation of the West Bank and Gaza . the framework createdby strategic settlement blocs, settler-only highways and the Separation Wall. In ways that parallel the development of Rapprochement, ICAHD has come to see that reconciliation cannot be placed ahead of the restoration of justice . a justice to be brought about through nonviolent direct action and adherence to human rights.
Jeff Halper has in recent years spent a great deal of time traveling abroad to inform the public
about the .realities on the ground,. and has established ICAHD chapters in the US, the UK and
else where. His travels and writings have added to his international stature. Ghassan and Jeff arecurrently working on a book about nonviolent resistance to the Occupation. They share a
fundamental belief that Palestinians and Israelis who stand for human rights, international law,
peace, justice and reconciliation are on the same .side.. This is what makes their message
relevant and universal, and why their voices . the seldom heard voices of critical advocates of
peace and non-violence . are acknowledged in this nomination.
The American Friends Service Committee is a Quaker organization that includes people of
various faiths who are committed to social justice, peace and humanitarian service. It was the
1947 co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. The AFSC’s national headquarters is in Philadelphia.
It has nine regional and 34 area offices in the US and is active in 22 countries around the world.
Its work is based on the belief in the worth of every person and faith in the power of love to
overcome violence and injustice. Additional information about the AFSC can be found at
www.afsc.org. Ghassan Andoni can be reached at g_andoni@yahoo.com; Jeff Halper at
jeff@icahd.org.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Statement from President Bush and Jordan King Abdullah II
Remarks By President Bush and His Majesty King Abdullah Of Jordan
In Photo Opportunity
WASHINGTON, Feb. 8
The following is a transcript of remarks by President Bush and His Majesty King Abdullah Of Jordan in a joint press conference:
The Oval Office 9:26 A.M. EST
PRESIDENT BUSH: Your Majesty, welcome back. I have had two good discussions with His Majesty. Last night His Majesty and the Crown Prince came to have dinner with Laura and me and some members of Congress, and we had a really good discussion. We had a little time by ourselves to talk strategically about the world and our deep desire for this world to be peaceful.
Of course we talked about Iraq, Iran, the Palestinian territories. I appreciate your vision and your desire to achieve a better world for the people in your neighborhood.
We also talked about a topic that requires a lot of discussion and a lot of sensitive thought, and that is the reaction to the cartoons. I first want to make it very clear to people around the world that ours is a nation that believes in tolerance and understanding. In America we welcome people of all faiths. One of the great attributes of our country is that you're free to worship however you choose in the United States of America.
Secondly, we believe in a free press. We also recognize that with freedom comes responsibilities. With freedom comes the responsibility to be thoughtful about others. Finally, I have made it clear to His Majesty and he made it clear to me that we reject violence as a way to express discontent with what may be printed in a free press. I call upon the governments around the world to stop the violence, to be respectful, to protect property, protect the lives of innocent diplomats who are serving their countries overseas.
And so, Your Majesty, thank you for coming. I'm proud to share the moment with you.
KING ABDULLAH: Thank you very much for your kind words. And I would just like to echo what the President said. We've had some very fruitful discussions, and we're appreciative of the vision and the desire that the President has for peace and stability in our part of the world. He has always strived to make life better for all of us in the Middle East, and I tremendously appreciate that role.
The issue of the cartoons, again, and with all respect to press freedoms, obviously, anything that vilifies the Prophet Mohammed -- upon him or attacks Muslim sensibilities, I believe needs to be condemned. At the same time, those that want to protest should do it thoughtfully, articulately, express their views peacefully. When we see protests -- when we see destruction, when we see violence, especially if it ends up taking the lives of innocent people, is completely unacceptable. Islam, like Christianity and Judaism, is a religion of peace, tolerance, moderation.
And we have to continue to ask ourselves, what type of world do we want for our children? I too often hear the word used as, tolerance. And tolerance is such an awful word. If we are going to strive to move forward in the future, the word that we should be talking about is acceptance. We need to accept our common humanity and our common values. And I hope that lessons can be learned from this dreadful issue, that we can move forward as humanity, and truly try to strive together, as friends and as neighbors, to bring a better world to all.
PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you, Your Majesty. I appreciate it.
END
9:31 A.M. EST Source: White House Press Office
CONTACT: White House Press Office, +1-202-456-2580
Web site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/
In Photo Opportunity
WASHINGTON, Feb. 8
The following is a transcript of remarks by President Bush and His Majesty King Abdullah Of Jordan in a joint press conference:
The Oval Office 9:26 A.M. EST
PRESIDENT BUSH: Your Majesty, welcome back. I have had two good discussions with His Majesty. Last night His Majesty and the Crown Prince came to have dinner with Laura and me and some members of Congress, and we had a really good discussion. We had a little time by ourselves to talk strategically about the world and our deep desire for this world to be peaceful.
Of course we talked about Iraq, Iran, the Palestinian territories. I appreciate your vision and your desire to achieve a better world for the people in your neighborhood.
We also talked about a topic that requires a lot of discussion and a lot of sensitive thought, and that is the reaction to the cartoons. I first want to make it very clear to people around the world that ours is a nation that believes in tolerance and understanding. In America we welcome people of all faiths. One of the great attributes of our country is that you're free to worship however you choose in the United States of America.
Secondly, we believe in a free press. We also recognize that with freedom comes responsibilities. With freedom comes the responsibility to be thoughtful about others. Finally, I have made it clear to His Majesty and he made it clear to me that we reject violence as a way to express discontent with what may be printed in a free press. I call upon the governments around the world to stop the violence, to be respectful, to protect property, protect the lives of innocent diplomats who are serving their countries overseas.
And so, Your Majesty, thank you for coming. I'm proud to share the moment with you.
KING ABDULLAH: Thank you very much for your kind words. And I would just like to echo what the President said. We've had some very fruitful discussions, and we're appreciative of the vision and the desire that the President has for peace and stability in our part of the world. He has always strived to make life better for all of us in the Middle East, and I tremendously appreciate that role.
The issue of the cartoons, again, and with all respect to press freedoms, obviously, anything that vilifies the Prophet Mohammed -- upon him or attacks Muslim sensibilities, I believe needs to be condemned. At the same time, those that want to protest should do it thoughtfully, articulately, express their views peacefully. When we see protests -- when we see destruction, when we see violence, especially if it ends up taking the lives of innocent people, is completely unacceptable. Islam, like Christianity and Judaism, is a religion of peace, tolerance, moderation.
And we have to continue to ask ourselves, what type of world do we want for our children? I too often hear the word used as, tolerance. And tolerance is such an awful word. If we are going to strive to move forward in the future, the word that we should be talking about is acceptance. We need to accept our common humanity and our common values. And I hope that lessons can be learned from this dreadful issue, that we can move forward as humanity, and truly try to strive together, as friends and as neighbors, to bring a better world to all.
PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you, Your Majesty. I appreciate it.
END
9:31 A.M. EST Source: White House Press Office
CONTACT: White House Press Office, +1-202-456-2580
Web site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Illinois AutoZone sued for discrimination
AutoZone sued by Muslim employee for discrimination
February 4, 2006
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago, Illinois -- El Bakly v. Autozone, Inc., 04C 2767 Autozone Inc. (NYSE: AZO), the nations’ leading retailer of automotiveparts, filed its motion for summary judgment in a case brought by aformer Muslim employee at one of its Franklin Park, Illinois stores forreligious and racial discrimination and harassment following the onsetof the Iraq War.
The lawsuit alleges that, for a period extending several months,several managers at the Autozone location in Franklin Park, Illinois repeatedly and intentionally used religious and racial epithets againstemployee Moustafa El-Bakly, who is of Muslim and Egyptian-American descent and mocked his religion. He alleges that his store supervisorsregularly called him a “terrorist,” referred to Saddam Hussein andAl-Quaeda as his “buddies” insulted his prayer practices with sexualgestures. His complaint claims that, although he had been promoted byprevious management to a commercial specialist position and performed well at his job, his new management assigned him to the uniform andtasks of those of inferior positions and to degrading and humiliating tasks including cleaning out the toilets and parking lots, before eventually terminated him on June 2, 2004.
Mr. El-Bakly had recently undergone heart surgery and treatment for diabetes before his employment with Autozone, and was attending college part-time before he was fired. He said his condition deteriorated dueto the stress. “The people I can complain to, my bosses, were the onesdoing this to me. No one else, they don’t believe me; they think it’sfunny. I was their joke, alone,” stated Mr. El-Bakly.
A Motion for Summary Judgment is a request made to the court to decidethe case based on statements and evidence without a trial. The courtmay grant such a motion when there are no genuine issues of materialfact that would require a trial to resolve. With the filing of this motion, the Autozone is asking the court to dismiss all counts of Mr.El-Bakly’s complaint on the merits of the submitted evidence.
The lawsuit seeks reinstatement, front pay, back wages, compensatory and punitive damages. Autozone’s Bellwood offices are at (708)493-2677, and its corporate headquarters are in Memphis, TN.
The company is represented by Ms. Renee Gluth of Frilot, Partridge, Kohnke& Clements, (504) 599-8000.
Contact: Luis A. Oviedo, Attorney, 312-563-9983
END
February 4, 2006
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago, Illinois -- El Bakly v. Autozone, Inc., 04C 2767 Autozone Inc. (NYSE: AZO), the nations’ leading retailer of automotiveparts, filed its motion for summary judgment in a case brought by aformer Muslim employee at one of its Franklin Park, Illinois stores forreligious and racial discrimination and harassment following the onsetof the Iraq War.
The lawsuit alleges that, for a period extending several months,several managers at the Autozone location in Franklin Park, Illinois repeatedly and intentionally used religious and racial epithets againstemployee Moustafa El-Bakly, who is of Muslim and Egyptian-American descent and mocked his religion. He alleges that his store supervisorsregularly called him a “terrorist,” referred to Saddam Hussein andAl-Quaeda as his “buddies” insulted his prayer practices with sexualgestures. His complaint claims that, although he had been promoted byprevious management to a commercial specialist position and performed well at his job, his new management assigned him to the uniform andtasks of those of inferior positions and to degrading and humiliating tasks including cleaning out the toilets and parking lots, before eventually terminated him on June 2, 2004.
Mr. El-Bakly had recently undergone heart surgery and treatment for diabetes before his employment with Autozone, and was attending college part-time before he was fired. He said his condition deteriorated dueto the stress. “The people I can complain to, my bosses, were the onesdoing this to me. No one else, they don’t believe me; they think it’sfunny. I was their joke, alone,” stated Mr. El-Bakly.
A Motion for Summary Judgment is a request made to the court to decidethe case based on statements and evidence without a trial. The courtmay grant such a motion when there are no genuine issues of materialfact that would require a trial to resolve. With the filing of this motion, the Autozone is asking the court to dismiss all counts of Mr.El-Bakly’s complaint on the merits of the submitted evidence.
The lawsuit seeks reinstatement, front pay, back wages, compensatory and punitive damages. Autozone’s Bellwood offices are at (708)493-2677, and its corporate headquarters are in Memphis, TN.
The company is represented by Ms. Renee Gluth of Frilot, Partridge, Kohnke& Clements, (504) 599-8000.
Contact: Luis A. Oviedo, Attorney, 312-563-9983
END
Friday, February 03, 2006
Christian Arab Leader denounces Danish cartoons
PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Fadi Zanayed
708-741-4040 office
708-257-7755 cell
Statement by Fadi Zanayed, Attorney at Law, a Christian Arab-American Leader,
Regarding the Caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad:
“At a time when the world is moving towards a global economy and religious tolerance, it is disturbing to note that some segments of our worldly society would inflame the followers of a major and significant religion for no other reason then to spread hatred. While I am a strong believer in a free press, those media outlets that published the caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad have done a grave injustice to not only Muslim believers who number over a billion, but to the whole 6 billion people who live on this earth.
“The world is changing at a geometrical pace and the boundary lines of countries are being eliminated by the cyber world. By emitting such hatred, the press is redrawing the lines that isolate people. The press should have the common sense to know what is right from wrong and govern itself accordingly. Spreading hatred has no place in our society. The Press owes not only the Muslims an apology; it owes an apology to the world.
Fadi Zanayed
Attorney at Law
7265 W. 87th Street Suite A
Bridgeview, IL 60455
708-741-4040
Contact: Fadi Zanayed
708-741-4040 office
708-257-7755 cell
Statement by Fadi Zanayed, Attorney at Law, a Christian Arab-American Leader,
Regarding the Caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad:
“At a time when the world is moving towards a global economy and religious tolerance, it is disturbing to note that some segments of our worldly society would inflame the followers of a major and significant religion for no other reason then to spread hatred. While I am a strong believer in a free press, those media outlets that published the caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad have done a grave injustice to not only Muslim believers who number over a billion, but to the whole 6 billion people who live on this earth.
“The world is changing at a geometrical pace and the boundary lines of countries are being eliminated by the cyber world. By emitting such hatred, the press is redrawing the lines that isolate people. The press should have the common sense to know what is right from wrong and govern itself accordingly. Spreading hatred has no place in our society. The Press owes not only the Muslims an apology; it owes an apology to the world.
Fadi Zanayed
Attorney at Law
7265 W. 87th Street Suite A
Bridgeview, IL 60455
708-741-4040
Thursday, February 02, 2006
American Arab/Muslim Food Company suspends dealings with Danish Firm over Prophet Mohammed insults
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nemer Ziyad
Feb. 1, 2006 708-222-8330
Chicago food distributor SUSPENDS all Business with Denmark-based Arla Foods
Cicero, Il. Feb. 1, 2006 - Ziyad Brothers Importing, one of the largest distributors of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food products, announced today it SUSPENDED all business with Denmark-based Arla Foods.
Nemer Ziyad, vice president of Ziyad Brothers Importing, said the decision is in response to the insulting and offensive caricatures of the Prophet Mohammed published by Denmark's leading newspaper, Jyllands-Posten, and the growing controversy.
"I am furious with what the newspaper did. I am disappointed with the hesitation of the Government of Denmark to speak out against this. I support free speech, but I believe that we must speak out when free speech crosses the line and incites hatred, as the publication of these extremely offensive cartoons has done," Ziyad said.
"We have enjoyed a relationship with Arla Foods, acting as the exclusive distributor of three of its most popular products here in the United States. We are encouraged that this issue may be resolved, but until it is properly resolved, we must take this action"
Ziyad Brothers Importing is the exclusive American distributor for three of Arla's most popular products, Puck Cheese and Puck Cream, and Lurpak Butter. Ziyad said the three food items are very popular with customers. Ziyad said the decision to suspend the product line will have a significant impact on Ziyad Brothers Importing revenues, but he added, "We will always stand by and support our community."
Ziyad said, "This isn't just about being Muslim or Arab. What Jyllands-Posten did crossed the line. It is wrong. I would do the same thing in any other similar circumstance involving any other religion. All people have a responsibility to speak out whenever an act of hateful incitement occurs and touches on the community."
END
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nemer Ziyad
Feb. 1, 2006 708-222-8330
Chicago food distributor SUSPENDS all Business with Denmark-based Arla Foods
Cicero, Il. Feb. 1, 2006 - Ziyad Brothers Importing, one of the largest distributors of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food products, announced today it SUSPENDED all business with Denmark-based Arla Foods.
Nemer Ziyad, vice president of Ziyad Brothers Importing, said the decision is in response to the insulting and offensive caricatures of the Prophet Mohammed published by Denmark's leading newspaper, Jyllands-Posten, and the growing controversy.
"I am furious with what the newspaper did. I am disappointed with the hesitation of the Government of Denmark to speak out against this. I support free speech, but I believe that we must speak out when free speech crosses the line and incites hatred, as the publication of these extremely offensive cartoons has done," Ziyad said.
"We have enjoyed a relationship with Arla Foods, acting as the exclusive distributor of three of its most popular products here in the United States. We are encouraged that this issue may be resolved, but until it is properly resolved, we must take this action"
Ziyad Brothers Importing is the exclusive American distributor for three of Arla's most popular products, Puck Cheese and Puck Cream, and Lurpak Butter. Ziyad said the three food items are very popular with customers. Ziyad said the decision to suspend the product line will have a significant impact on Ziyad Brothers Importing revenues, but he added, "We will always stand by and support our community."
Ziyad said, "This isn't just about being Muslim or Arab. What Jyllands-Posten did crossed the line. It is wrong. I would do the same thing in any other similar circumstance involving any other religion. All people have a responsibility to speak out whenever an act of hateful incitement occurs and touches on the community."
END
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Statement of Middle East Christians on Hamas election victory
Jan. 30, 2006
From the ELCA Middle East Networking List
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) put out a statement yesterday from Bishop Munib Younan on the Palestinian elections.
January 2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land Bishop Dr. Munib Younan Salaam and grace to you from Jerusalem, City of Peace
Thoughts on the Palestinian Elections
This week the Palestinian people have spoken in a clear and democraticprocess that they want a new and more effective government. With a voterturnout of 77 percent, one of the most effective expressions of democracy inthe Arab world was achieved despite the hardships of occupation. We areproud of this great achievement and believe it illustrates our people'sdesire for a modern, civil, democratic state.We are still somewhat in shock, however, at the extent of the Hamas victory.We need time for self-evaluation to ask ourselves why this happened and whatit means.We believe it was probably an accumulation of many things:
1) Desperation in the street that despite an ongoing "peace process"occupation continued unabated as did land confiscation, settlement growth,home demolitions, the deteriorating situation in East Jerusalem and thecreation of the Separation Wall that enclosed us into enclaves intended tosomeday be euphemistically named a "state." In talking with many who votedfor Hamas, they did not support a radical Islamist agenda or violence, theywanted change and reform in a system that has been broken for a long time.
2) Division, corruption and lack of accountability within the former rulingparty of Fatah.
3) Lack of substantial political support by the US and Israel for thePalestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) and his non-violentmandate - support which could have led to more tangible signs ofimprovement - instead caused less security and more disorder.
4) In the face of the economic hardship, Hamas' social programs providedthe aid and comfort Palestinian families needed, while the administrationcontinued in mismanagement and deadlock over the ongoing conflict.
5) The unilateral nature of the withdrawal from Gaza was then interpretedby some as a sign that Israelis weren't negotiating with Abu Mazen anyway,and that perhaps it was Hamas that ultimately triggered the withdrawal.
Today there is fear and hope, threat and promise, and time will tell whetherwe as two peoples can seize this opportunity to break out of our torturedhistory of standoff and conflict. Partners for peace are made, not born, bythe ways we treat one another and shape together our common destiny.
We in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL)will continue our Christian witness and service for justice, peace andreconciliation. We will still continue to renounce any kind of violence fromanyone - including suicide bombing, extra-judicial assassinations,incursions,home demolitions, land confiscation or any other kind of destruction of lifeand liberty.
We still envision a two-state solution with two, viable,contiguous and independent states living equally side by side with sharedresources, a shared Jerusalem and a just resolution for the refugees and theproblem of illegal settlements and land confiscation according tointernational law. We will continue to work adamantly for a modern, civil,democratic society that respects freedom of religion, freedom of speech andequal rights for women and men.We ask the Palestinian people, especially Palestinian Christians, not topanic and arrive at hasty conclusions but to persevere and remain steadfastin this land. Now more than ever we need to continue to be an active,integral part of the people and to continue as Christian witnesses forjustice, instruments of peace and ministers of reconciliation.
This is a moment of challenge and possibility in the midst of unexpectedchange. We as a church pledge ourselves to watch, pray and work unceasinglyand prophetically so that the policies implemented for the Palestinianpeople will be guided by justice, equality and freedom.We ask you as faith and world leaders to support these positions of ourchurch because this is the path that will ensure pluralism, human rights,justice and freedom for all at this crucial stage. We urgently ask our Christian sisters and brothers to work with our ministries in schools,churches and organizations to ensure that Christian witness is strengthenedand not diminished. Please keep us in your prayers, thoughts and actions.
We also challenge both sides to go beyond the tired old rhetoric that hasonly brought us stalemates and conflict. Let us work together to find newlanguage and proposals to build common ground on our shared interests forjustice and reconciliation and an end to occupation and violence. We believethat isolation of those with whom we disagree only adds to prejudices andstereotypes and the probability of more extremism.
We continue to believe that Israeli security is dependent on freedom andjustice for the Palestinians, and freedom and justice for the Palestiniansis dependent on the security of the Israelis. We urge both sides torecognize this because our futures are intertwined, and our children shouldbe able to live in freedom without fear, occupation, violence or anyviolation of Human Rights.
Bishop Dr. Munib Younan
---- ---- ---- ----
If you have received this bulletin directly from us, it is because yousubscribed to the ELCA Middle East Networking List. Please forward thisbulletin to others who are interested in a just peace for Palestine andIsrael.To Join (or Leave) this List, go to www.elca.org/middleeast on the web.Ann HafftenCoordinator for Middle East NetworkingDivision for Global Mission, ELCAwww.elca.org/peacenotwalla800-638-3522, ext. 6466
From the ELCA Middle East Networking List
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) put out a statement yesterday from Bishop Munib Younan on the Palestinian elections.
January 2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land Bishop Dr. Munib Younan Salaam and grace to you from Jerusalem, City of Peace
Thoughts on the Palestinian Elections
This week the Palestinian people have spoken in a clear and democraticprocess that they want a new and more effective government. With a voterturnout of 77 percent, one of the most effective expressions of democracy inthe Arab world was achieved despite the hardships of occupation. We areproud of this great achievement and believe it illustrates our people'sdesire for a modern, civil, democratic state.We are still somewhat in shock, however, at the extent of the Hamas victory.We need time for self-evaluation to ask ourselves why this happened and whatit means.We believe it was probably an accumulation of many things:
1) Desperation in the street that despite an ongoing "peace process"occupation continued unabated as did land confiscation, settlement growth,home demolitions, the deteriorating situation in East Jerusalem and thecreation of the Separation Wall that enclosed us into enclaves intended tosomeday be euphemistically named a "state." In talking with many who votedfor Hamas, they did not support a radical Islamist agenda or violence, theywanted change and reform in a system that has been broken for a long time.
2) Division, corruption and lack of accountability within the former rulingparty of Fatah.
3) Lack of substantial political support by the US and Israel for thePalestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) and his non-violentmandate - support which could have led to more tangible signs ofimprovement - instead caused less security and more disorder.
4) In the face of the economic hardship, Hamas' social programs providedthe aid and comfort Palestinian families needed, while the administrationcontinued in mismanagement and deadlock over the ongoing conflict.
5) The unilateral nature of the withdrawal from Gaza was then interpretedby some as a sign that Israelis weren't negotiating with Abu Mazen anyway,and that perhaps it was Hamas that ultimately triggered the withdrawal.
Today there is fear and hope, threat and promise, and time will tell whetherwe as two peoples can seize this opportunity to break out of our torturedhistory of standoff and conflict. Partners for peace are made, not born, bythe ways we treat one another and shape together our common destiny.
We in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL)will continue our Christian witness and service for justice, peace andreconciliation. We will still continue to renounce any kind of violence fromanyone - including suicide bombing, extra-judicial assassinations,incursions,home demolitions, land confiscation or any other kind of destruction of lifeand liberty.
We still envision a two-state solution with two, viable,contiguous and independent states living equally side by side with sharedresources, a shared Jerusalem and a just resolution for the refugees and theproblem of illegal settlements and land confiscation according tointernational law. We will continue to work adamantly for a modern, civil,democratic society that respects freedom of religion, freedom of speech andequal rights for women and men.We ask the Palestinian people, especially Palestinian Christians, not topanic and arrive at hasty conclusions but to persevere and remain steadfastin this land. Now more than ever we need to continue to be an active,integral part of the people and to continue as Christian witnesses forjustice, instruments of peace and ministers of reconciliation.
This is a moment of challenge and possibility in the midst of unexpectedchange. We as a church pledge ourselves to watch, pray and work unceasinglyand prophetically so that the policies implemented for the Palestinianpeople will be guided by justice, equality and freedom.We ask you as faith and world leaders to support these positions of ourchurch because this is the path that will ensure pluralism, human rights,justice and freedom for all at this crucial stage. We urgently ask our Christian sisters and brothers to work with our ministries in schools,churches and organizations to ensure that Christian witness is strengthenedand not diminished. Please keep us in your prayers, thoughts and actions.
We also challenge both sides to go beyond the tired old rhetoric that hasonly brought us stalemates and conflict. Let us work together to find newlanguage and proposals to build common ground on our shared interests forjustice and reconciliation and an end to occupation and violence. We believethat isolation of those with whom we disagree only adds to prejudices andstereotypes and the probability of more extremism.
We continue to believe that Israeli security is dependent on freedom andjustice for the Palestinians, and freedom and justice for the Palestiniansis dependent on the security of the Israelis. We urge both sides torecognize this because our futures are intertwined, and our children shouldbe able to live in freedom without fear, occupation, violence or anyviolation of Human Rights.
Bishop Dr. Munib Younan
---- ---- ---- ----
If you have received this bulletin directly from us, it is because yousubscribed to the ELCA Middle East Networking List. Please forward thisbulletin to others who are interested in a just peace for Palestine andIsrael.To Join (or Leave) this List, go to www.elca.org/middleeast on the web.Ann HafftenCoordinator for Middle East NetworkingDivision for Global Mission, ELCAwww.elca.org/peacenotwalla800-638-3522, ext. 6466
Monday, January 23, 2006
Jewish-Palestinian students vote together in Israel
Jewish and Palestinian Students in Israel Vote Together
For Immediate Release: January 23, 2006
Contact: Deanna Armbruster (856-235-6200),
deanna@oasisofpeace.org
Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam, Israel - With national elections upcoming in both the West Bank/Gaza at the end of January and in Israel in March, Jewish and Arab students at Israel's first bilingual, binational Primary School/Junior High School in Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam ("Oasis of Peace" in both Hebrew and Arabic) have been focused on the democratic process, and on every person's right to express their opinion, as long as it does not disparage, insult or trample on the rights of others to live with dignity and in peace.
Elections, held at the beginning of the school year, for class committees and student council representatives were an opportunity for the students to experience democracy first-hand. "The candidates were each given the stage to present their own political platform," said teacher Ety Edlund. "The children prepared slogans and posters and visited all the other classes for their election campaign."
Founded more than 20 years ago, the Primary School/Junior High School at the "Oasis of Peace" was the first, and remains one of only a handful of schools in the region, where Jewish and Arab children learn together in the same classes with equal respect for Arabic and Hebrew.
"Such activities bring the entire student body population together, regardless of grade, religion, or national identity. Certainly, this unique school faces many challenges with the ongoing tension and violence facing Israelis andPalestinians," said Edlund.
"Yet, as the students learn together and vote together the walls of culture, religion, language, and ethnicity that divide them, start tumbling down."
The elected student leaders have taken their responsibilities to heart. One of the challenges facing the school is improving the quality of Arabic language education for all students in a society where Hebrew is the dominate language.
Students have taken on the challenge themselves by arranging an Arabic-only school break with special activities where all students (Jewish and Arab) must speak only Arabic. Activities have included remembering the 10th anniversary of the assassination of PM Yitzhak Rabin, and other programs arranged by each class level where all students participate.
##
American Friends of Neve Shalom/Wahat Al-Salam
4201 Church Road, Suite 13, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
Tel. 856-235-6200, Fax 856-235-4674
Email afnswas@oasisofpeace.org, www.oasisofpeace.org
For Immediate Release: January 23, 2006
Contact: Deanna Armbruster (856-235-6200),
deanna@oasisofpeace.org
Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam, Israel - With national elections upcoming in both the West Bank/Gaza at the end of January and in Israel in March, Jewish and Arab students at Israel's first bilingual, binational Primary School/Junior High School in Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam ("Oasis of Peace" in both Hebrew and Arabic) have been focused on the democratic process, and on every person's right to express their opinion, as long as it does not disparage, insult or trample on the rights of others to live with dignity and in peace.
Elections, held at the beginning of the school year, for class committees and student council representatives were an opportunity for the students to experience democracy first-hand. "The candidates were each given the stage to present their own political platform," said teacher Ety Edlund. "The children prepared slogans and posters and visited all the other classes for their election campaign."
Founded more than 20 years ago, the Primary School/Junior High School at the "Oasis of Peace" was the first, and remains one of only a handful of schools in the region, where Jewish and Arab children learn together in the same classes with equal respect for Arabic and Hebrew.
"Such activities bring the entire student body population together, regardless of grade, religion, or national identity. Certainly, this unique school faces many challenges with the ongoing tension and violence facing Israelis andPalestinians," said Edlund.
"Yet, as the students learn together and vote together the walls of culture, religion, language, and ethnicity that divide them, start tumbling down."
The elected student leaders have taken their responsibilities to heart. One of the challenges facing the school is improving the quality of Arabic language education for all students in a society where Hebrew is the dominate language.
Students have taken on the challenge themselves by arranging an Arabic-only school break with special activities where all students (Jewish and Arab) must speak only Arabic. Activities have included remembering the 10th anniversary of the assassination of PM Yitzhak Rabin, and other programs arranged by each class level where all students participate.
##
American Friends of Neve Shalom/Wahat Al-Salam
4201 Church Road, Suite 13, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
Tel. 856-235-6200, Fax 856-235-4674
Email afnswas@oasisofpeace.org, www.oasisofpeace.org
Thursday, January 19, 2006
New Lebanese American Monthly Magazine launched
Lebanese Monthly Magazine Officially Debuts with a Celebrity Launch Party TONIGHT!
Lebanese Monthly Magazine Official Celebrity Launch Party
Thursday, January 19, 2006
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM in the evening
Erhard Land Rover of Farmington Hills
Dealership Atrium Showroom
38200 Grand River Avenue
Farmington Hills, Michigan USA
___________________________________
John G. Akouri, Editor-in-Chief
CONTACT: 248.320.7300
johnakouri@yahoo.com
Sponsored In Part By The Lebanese American Chamber of Commerce
Lebanese Monthly Magazine Official Celebrity Launch Party
Thursday, January 19, 2006
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM in the evening
Erhard Land Rover of Farmington Hills
Dealership Atrium Showroom
38200 Grand River Avenue
Farmington Hills, Michigan USA
___________________________________
John G. Akouri, Editor-in-Chief
CONTACT: 248.320.7300
johnakouri@yahoo.com
Sponsored In Part By The Lebanese American Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Free Muslims Demand release of Journalist
Free Muslims Demand Release of American Journalist from Iraq
Washington, DC Jan. 17--- The Free Muslim Coalition Against Terrorism (FMC), an AmericanMuslim organization, demands the release of Jill Carroll, an American journalist who waskidnapped in Iraq.
Jill Carroll appeared in a video that was shown on the al-Jazeera television network. This was the first time Carrol was shown since she was kidnapped on January 7, 2006after meeting with Adnan Dulaimi who is an Iraq politician.
News reports indicate that she was kidnapped by a little known group by the name of"Vengeance Brigade." While it is not clear why Carrol was kidnapped, shortly after herkidnapping, protesters in Baghdad demanded the release of Iraqi women from U.S. detention.
Regardless of why Carol was abducted, her kidnapping is immoral and counter productiveto the interest of those who want the U.S. to leave Iraq. While kidnapping anyone iswrong, the abduction of journalists and women is particularly repulsive. In everyinstance where the Koran mentions war and peace, there is an injunction againsttargeting women. Moreover, "journalists are in the business of publishing the truth and there isabsolutely no benefit or justification for targeting journalists. It must stop." Said Kamal Nawash, the President of FMC.
"The Free Muslims call on American Muslim organizations and Muslim leaders in the Arab world to condemn the kidnapping of Carroland any other innocent person. This is necessary because many terrorists around theMuslim world believe that they have grass root support. They will only refrain fromkidnappings and other vile acts if Muslims make it clear that they are repulsed by suchbarbaric tactics" said Nawash.
For more information, visit our website at www.freemuslims.org
For Immediate Release Contact: Kamal Nawash
January 18, 2006
Phone: 202-776-7190
E-mail: president@freemuslims.org
Washington, DC Jan. 17--- The Free Muslim Coalition Against Terrorism (FMC), an AmericanMuslim organization, demands the release of Jill Carroll, an American journalist who waskidnapped in Iraq.
Jill Carroll appeared in a video that was shown on the al-Jazeera television network. This was the first time Carrol was shown since she was kidnapped on January 7, 2006after meeting with Adnan Dulaimi who is an Iraq politician.
News reports indicate that she was kidnapped by a little known group by the name of"Vengeance Brigade." While it is not clear why Carrol was kidnapped, shortly after herkidnapping, protesters in Baghdad demanded the release of Iraqi women from U.S. detention.
Regardless of why Carol was abducted, her kidnapping is immoral and counter productiveto the interest of those who want the U.S. to leave Iraq. While kidnapping anyone iswrong, the abduction of journalists and women is particularly repulsive. In everyinstance where the Koran mentions war and peace, there is an injunction againsttargeting women. Moreover, "journalists are in the business of publishing the truth and there isabsolutely no benefit or justification for targeting journalists. It must stop." Said Kamal Nawash, the President of FMC.
"The Free Muslims call on American Muslim organizations and Muslim leaders in the Arab world to condemn the kidnapping of Carroland any other innocent person. This is necessary because many terrorists around theMuslim world believe that they have grass root support. They will only refrain fromkidnappings and other vile acts if Muslims make it clear that they are repulsed by suchbarbaric tactics" said Nawash.
For more information, visit our website at www.freemuslims.org
For Immediate Release Contact: Kamal Nawash
January 18, 2006
Phone: 202-776-7190
E-mail: president@freemuslims.org
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Andy Martin to make primary referendum on Iraq
GOP Candidate Martin to Make Illinois Primary a Referendum on Iraq
Martin Urges Bush to “BRING HOME OUR HEROES.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 12, 2006
CANDIDATE ACCEPTS PRESIDENT’S OFFER TO RECEIVE “HONEST CRITICISM” AS “A CREDIT TO OUR DEMOCRACY”
(CHICAGO)(January 12, 2006) Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Andy Martin will tell the Cook County Republican Convention Friday, January 13th in Rosemont (Chicago) Illinois that he will make the gubernatorial primary a referendum on Iraq. Martin promises that if he is nominated he will ask to meet with President Bush to tell him “The Illinois economy is hurting. Mr. President…Bring home our heroes. Put Illinois first.”
Martin will hold a news conference after his speech to the Republican convention.
“Tuesday the president invited ‘honest critics’ to comment on to our Iraq policy. It is entirely appropriate that Republicans lead that effort,” Martin will state.
“Governors do not have a role in foreign policy, so I will not address the current conduct of the war. My prior reporting from Baghdad in 2003 exposed Paul Bremer’s incompetence and maladministration.
“Governors do have a critical role in domestic economic policy. I believe the protracted conflict in Iraq is devastating the Illinois economy. Three years ago people bought SUV’s and drove them with oil at $20 a barrel. Today oil at is $70 a barrel. People buy Japanese cars.
“Ironically, our allies profit from American efforts to spread democracy in the Middle East. United Auto Workers lose their jobs to foreign auto makers. Families fear for their futures. Pensions are disappearing. This cannot continue.
“Arab nations have not come to our aid, three years later. Saudis profit by selling us oil at inflated prices to defend them. The American public will not tolerate this incongruity indefinitely. It is time to Put America First.
“It is time to invest in Illinois, not Iraq. The heartland is hurting; voters want budgetary priorities to reflect economic reality. American taxpayers cannot afford to spend $1 billion a day forever just so the Middle East will someday become ‘democratic.’
“I follow in the great tradition of Illinois’ own U. S. Senator Everett McKinley Dirksen, who said ‘When I feel the heat, I see the light.’ It is time for Illinois voters to send a little ‘heat’ to Washington, to send a clear message, so policymakers see the ‘light’: ‘Mr. President… bring home our heroes.’
“It will not benefit Americans if we go bankrupt fighting for Arab democracy. Bringing democracy to the Middle East is a job best left to Arabs, not Americans.
“I have a consistent record of supporting President Bush’s goals while offering ‘honest criticism’ of his methods. As a result of our differences over Mr. Bremer, the president should respect my insight and analysis. I think a Republican whom the president respects is the best person to open the president’s eyes to the devastating impact of prolonged conflict on the Illinois economy.
“In the March 21st primary, a vote for me is a vote to send President Bush the message, ‘Mr. President… Bring home our heroes. It is time to put Illinois and America first.’
“Every Illinoisan now has the opportunity to cast a primary vote for ‘heat’ and ‘light’ in the tradition of Senator Dirksen. They can support me to express their view of the war’s impact on our state.
“Finally, my fear is that if we do not recalibrate our economic priorities to Put Illinois First, the public will eventually lose faith in the war against terror; that is a conflict where there can be no retreat and no defeat.”
Media contact: Andy Martin (312) 440-4124; Website: AndyforIllinois.com; Contributions: www.AndyforIllinois.com
www.AndyontheIssues.blogspot.com
E-mail: AndyforIllinois@aol.com.
END
Martin Urges Bush to “BRING HOME OUR HEROES.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 12, 2006
CANDIDATE ACCEPTS PRESIDENT’S OFFER TO RECEIVE “HONEST CRITICISM” AS “A CREDIT TO OUR DEMOCRACY”
(CHICAGO)(January 12, 2006) Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Andy Martin will tell the Cook County Republican Convention Friday, January 13th in Rosemont (Chicago) Illinois that he will make the gubernatorial primary a referendum on Iraq. Martin promises that if he is nominated he will ask to meet with President Bush to tell him “The Illinois economy is hurting. Mr. President…Bring home our heroes. Put Illinois first.”
Martin will hold a news conference after his speech to the Republican convention.
“Tuesday the president invited ‘honest critics’ to comment on to our Iraq policy. It is entirely appropriate that Republicans lead that effort,” Martin will state.
“Governors do not have a role in foreign policy, so I will not address the current conduct of the war. My prior reporting from Baghdad in 2003 exposed Paul Bremer’s incompetence and maladministration.
“Governors do have a critical role in domestic economic policy. I believe the protracted conflict in Iraq is devastating the Illinois economy. Three years ago people bought SUV’s and drove them with oil at $20 a barrel. Today oil at is $70 a barrel. People buy Japanese cars.
“Ironically, our allies profit from American efforts to spread democracy in the Middle East. United Auto Workers lose their jobs to foreign auto makers. Families fear for their futures. Pensions are disappearing. This cannot continue.
“Arab nations have not come to our aid, three years later. Saudis profit by selling us oil at inflated prices to defend them. The American public will not tolerate this incongruity indefinitely. It is time to Put America First.
“It is time to invest in Illinois, not Iraq. The heartland is hurting; voters want budgetary priorities to reflect economic reality. American taxpayers cannot afford to spend $1 billion a day forever just so the Middle East will someday become ‘democratic.’
“I follow in the great tradition of Illinois’ own U. S. Senator Everett McKinley Dirksen, who said ‘When I feel the heat, I see the light.’ It is time for Illinois voters to send a little ‘heat’ to Washington, to send a clear message, so policymakers see the ‘light’: ‘Mr. President… bring home our heroes.’
“It will not benefit Americans if we go bankrupt fighting for Arab democracy. Bringing democracy to the Middle East is a job best left to Arabs, not Americans.
“I have a consistent record of supporting President Bush’s goals while offering ‘honest criticism’ of his methods. As a result of our differences over Mr. Bremer, the president should respect my insight and analysis. I think a Republican whom the president respects is the best person to open the president’s eyes to the devastating impact of prolonged conflict on the Illinois economy.
“In the March 21st primary, a vote for me is a vote to send President Bush the message, ‘Mr. President… Bring home our heroes. It is time to put Illinois and America first.’
“Every Illinoisan now has the opportunity to cast a primary vote for ‘heat’ and ‘light’ in the tradition of Senator Dirksen. They can support me to express their view of the war’s impact on our state.
“Finally, my fear is that if we do not recalibrate our economic priorities to Put Illinois First, the public will eventually lose faith in the war against terror; that is a conflict where there can be no retreat and no defeat.”
Media contact: Andy Martin (312) 440-4124; Website: AndyforIllinois.com; Contributions: www.AndyforIllinois.com
www.AndyontheIssues.blogspot.com
E-mail: AndyforIllinois@aol.com.
END
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Palestine's Orthodox Priest Attalla Hanna ordained as Sabastia Archbishop Theodosios
A Rare Day for Orthodoxy in the Holy Land
By Maria C. Khoury
khourymaria@hotmail.com
Orthodoxy is not based on ethnicity but in Jerusalem with the dominant Greek leadership in the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate there were cheers, clapping, whistling and extreme joy expressed at the ordination of the Palestinian Archimandrite Attalla Hanna ordained Theodosios Archbishop of Sabastia on December 24, 2005. To be lighting candles at Christ’s Holy Tomb on the Eve of the Nativity of the Lord is not the place to be when everyone else is heading to Bethlehem to receive the “New Born King.” However, this was not an ordinary day in the Holy Land.
It was a special day that the Palestinian Orthodox Christian community has been waiting for over twenty-five years since the passing of the first Palestinian bishop from our village of Taybeh, Bishop Symon in the early 1980’s. This historical day in the Orthodox Christian community was blessed by the new patriarch His Beatitude Theophilos III officiated with representatives from Jordan, Palestine, Israel and Greece attending in witness of this extraordinary day for a Palestinian Orthodox bishop. I have such little faith thinking the recent patriarchate scandals would not allow this day to happen in my lifetime.
The Orthodox community in Palestine has been waiting anxiously to see a minimum of two local bishops of Arab ethnicity to join the Greek Orthodox leadership as stipulated by Church policy and this issue alone has created a huge gap among the Greeks of the Brotherhood and the local Arab faithful. As a scholar, His Beatitude Theophilos always speaks eloquently but the most important emphasis was that the Holy Synod finally fulfilled one of its obligations to the Orthodox community with the new ordination of the Palestinian bishop. Furthermore, all of us were thrilled that an Orthodox Christian woman, Ms. Hind Khoury, Ministry of State, Jerusalem Portfolio, was the official representative of the Palestinian Authority to this rare occasion. Also, giving a congratulatory speech on behalf of the Palestinian president was Mr. Rafeek Huseni at a reception in the Greek Patriarchate following the four hour well attended service. Mr. Margaritis, Deputy General Consul of Greece offered warm congratulations on behalf of the Greek government.
The representative from the Jordanian Parliament, a well known Orthodox layman, Dr. Odeh Qawas did not forget to thank the bishop’s mother for helping to raise him the Orthodox way and maintain the traditions and values of the One True Faith. Dr. John Tleel, the author of “I am Jerusalem,” a person I consider a treasure in the Old City, said that as Christians we are in the holy season of experiencing the Birth of the King of Glory, also we are experiencing the birth of a new Palestinian bishop and we should focus on our Orthodoxy not on our ethnicity but it’s obvious this new appointment brought joy to every Palestinian Orthodox soul in the world.
Born (l965) in Al-Rameh (near Haifa) to Arab Israeli Orthodox Christian parents, Yacoub and Alice, the new bishop has only one brother and one sister. He was ordained a priest (l991) at the Holy Sepulchre the same spot where this holy sacrament took place. He has represented the World Council of Churches at meetings on human rights during which the suffering of Palestinian people was discussed. For his devotion and dedication to the Holy Land ministry, Archbishop Theodosios has received an honorary doctor of theology degree from the Sophia Theological Institute of Bulgaria. He also studied theology for seven years in Greece. He is one of the few highly educated Palestinian clergymen that speak out for justice and peace for all people in the region. He has served as the official spokesperson for the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate for many years appointed by the late Patriarch Diodoros.
Archbishop Theodosios, well respected by the Christian and Muslim people was called “bishop” even years before his official elevation and is against all forms of violence and supports non-violent solutions to the Israeli military occupation. The Israeli propaganda machine has tried to smear his reputation and marginalize him in the past especially since he is very competent to fill the gap between Christians and Muslims and has often participated in Christian-Muslim dialogue promoting better relations among the different faiths united by cultural, social and political aspirations.
The new bishop is a man of great faith that can lead us to better understanding and relations with others serving the Lord in a very troubled land. Many of his high school classmates came to the ordination as well as the Mayor of Al Rameh who were very proud to see one of their own sons join the ranks of the Greek Orthodox leadership in Jerusalem. “Axios” was shouted in many languages! Sadly since many Palestinian Orthodox Christians could not enter Jerusalem to witness this sacrament due to Israeli military policy requiring permits, various receptions were held in different locations to congratulate His Eminence the new Palestinian Archbishop of Sabastia Theodosios.
END
By Maria C. Khoury
khourymaria@hotmail.com
Orthodoxy is not based on ethnicity but in Jerusalem with the dominant Greek leadership in the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate there were cheers, clapping, whistling and extreme joy expressed at the ordination of the Palestinian Archimandrite Attalla Hanna ordained Theodosios Archbishop of Sabastia on December 24, 2005. To be lighting candles at Christ’s Holy Tomb on the Eve of the Nativity of the Lord is not the place to be when everyone else is heading to Bethlehem to receive the “New Born King.” However, this was not an ordinary day in the Holy Land.
It was a special day that the Palestinian Orthodox Christian community has been waiting for over twenty-five years since the passing of the first Palestinian bishop from our village of Taybeh, Bishop Symon in the early 1980’s. This historical day in the Orthodox Christian community was blessed by the new patriarch His Beatitude Theophilos III officiated with representatives from Jordan, Palestine, Israel and Greece attending in witness of this extraordinary day for a Palestinian Orthodox bishop. I have such little faith thinking the recent patriarchate scandals would not allow this day to happen in my lifetime.
The Orthodox community in Palestine has been waiting anxiously to see a minimum of two local bishops of Arab ethnicity to join the Greek Orthodox leadership as stipulated by Church policy and this issue alone has created a huge gap among the Greeks of the Brotherhood and the local Arab faithful. As a scholar, His Beatitude Theophilos always speaks eloquently but the most important emphasis was that the Holy Synod finally fulfilled one of its obligations to the Orthodox community with the new ordination of the Palestinian bishop. Furthermore, all of us were thrilled that an Orthodox Christian woman, Ms. Hind Khoury, Ministry of State, Jerusalem Portfolio, was the official representative of the Palestinian Authority to this rare occasion. Also, giving a congratulatory speech on behalf of the Palestinian president was Mr. Rafeek Huseni at a reception in the Greek Patriarchate following the four hour well attended service. Mr. Margaritis, Deputy General Consul of Greece offered warm congratulations on behalf of the Greek government.
The representative from the Jordanian Parliament, a well known Orthodox layman, Dr. Odeh Qawas did not forget to thank the bishop’s mother for helping to raise him the Orthodox way and maintain the traditions and values of the One True Faith. Dr. John Tleel, the author of “I am Jerusalem,” a person I consider a treasure in the Old City, said that as Christians we are in the holy season of experiencing the Birth of the King of Glory, also we are experiencing the birth of a new Palestinian bishop and we should focus on our Orthodoxy not on our ethnicity but it’s obvious this new appointment brought joy to every Palestinian Orthodox soul in the world.
Born (l965) in Al-Rameh (near Haifa) to Arab Israeli Orthodox Christian parents, Yacoub and Alice, the new bishop has only one brother and one sister. He was ordained a priest (l991) at the Holy Sepulchre the same spot where this holy sacrament took place. He has represented the World Council of Churches at meetings on human rights during which the suffering of Palestinian people was discussed. For his devotion and dedication to the Holy Land ministry, Archbishop Theodosios has received an honorary doctor of theology degree from the Sophia Theological Institute of Bulgaria. He also studied theology for seven years in Greece. He is one of the few highly educated Palestinian clergymen that speak out for justice and peace for all people in the region. He has served as the official spokesperson for the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate for many years appointed by the late Patriarch Diodoros.
Archbishop Theodosios, well respected by the Christian and Muslim people was called “bishop” even years before his official elevation and is against all forms of violence and supports non-violent solutions to the Israeli military occupation. The Israeli propaganda machine has tried to smear his reputation and marginalize him in the past especially since he is very competent to fill the gap between Christians and Muslims and has often participated in Christian-Muslim dialogue promoting better relations among the different faiths united by cultural, social and political aspirations.
The new bishop is a man of great faith that can lead us to better understanding and relations with others serving the Lord in a very troubled land. Many of his high school classmates came to the ordination as well as the Mayor of Al Rameh who were very proud to see one of their own sons join the ranks of the Greek Orthodox leadership in Jerusalem. “Axios” was shouted in many languages! Sadly since many Palestinian Orthodox Christians could not enter Jerusalem to witness this sacrament due to Israeli military policy requiring permits, various receptions were held in different locations to congratulate His Eminence the new Palestinian Archbishop of Sabastia Theodosios.
END
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Chicago's Arab Heritage focus of Comcast Cable TV show
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago
Jan. 1, 2005
Arab Americans and their history in Chicago is the subject of a documentary to be broadcast this month by Comcast Cable TV in 51 Chicago suburban communities. The show entitled "Arabs of Chicagoland" is based on the book of the same name published by Arcadia Publishing and Chicago author, syndicated columnist and Palestinian Arab standup comedian Ray Hanania.
The show, "30 Minutes" will provide a photographic montage of historical images of the Arab American community along with a reading from the book and a 20 minute interview with the author by NPR's award winning program "848." The radio interview was originally broadcast Nov. 22 on WBEZ 91.5 FM in Chicago.
The show, "30 Minutes," can be seen in most South and Southwest suburban communities including Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, and Orland Park, suburbs of Chicago that have large Arab American constituencies. It is available on Channel 19 on Comcast Cable every Friday night beginning at 8:30 PM.
Hanania is a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist. His writings appear in the Southwest News Herald, the Daily Herald of Arlington Heights, the English language web site of Israel's largets newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the Arab American News in Detroit, the Future News of Chicago, and more than two dozen Arab and American newspapers around the country.
For more information visit www.hanania.com/cabletv.htm
-- ET --
Chicago
Jan. 1, 2005
Arab Americans and their history in Chicago is the subject of a documentary to be broadcast this month by Comcast Cable TV in 51 Chicago suburban communities. The show entitled "Arabs of Chicagoland" is based on the book of the same name published by Arcadia Publishing and Chicago author, syndicated columnist and Palestinian Arab standup comedian Ray Hanania.
The show, "30 Minutes" will provide a photographic montage of historical images of the Arab American community along with a reading from the book and a 20 minute interview with the author by NPR's award winning program "848." The radio interview was originally broadcast Nov. 22 on WBEZ 91.5 FM in Chicago.
The show, "30 Minutes," can be seen in most South and Southwest suburban communities including Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, and Orland Park, suburbs of Chicago that have large Arab American constituencies. It is available on Channel 19 on Comcast Cable every Friday night beginning at 8:30 PM.
Hanania is a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist. His writings appear in the Southwest News Herald, the Daily Herald of Arlington Heights, the English language web site of Israel's largets newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the Arab American News in Detroit, the Future News of Chicago, and more than two dozen Arab and American newspapers around the country.
For more information visit www.hanania.com/cabletv.htm
-- ET --
British Government praises release of hostages in Gaza, Palestine
STATEMENT ISSUED ON BEHALF OF KATE, WIN AND HUGH BURTON
London, 31 December/GNN/ --
FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
News Release issued by the Government News Network on 31 December 2005
"We are glad that these last few days are over and we would like to expressour gratitude to the Palestinian Authority, the British Government and allgroups and individuals in Gaza and worldwide who have been supporting usand working around the clock to secure our release. We are in good healthand have been treated extremely well through the ordeal. Kate Burton plans to stay in the region and continue working with thePalestinian people. The incident was just one in the context of a severelyincreasing state of insecurity in the Gaza Strip, and Kate remains committedand passionate about working alongside the Palestinians to improve theirexternal image and alleviate the difficult conditions being suffered by the Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip.After these difficult few days, the family strongly requests that they beleft in peace to recover with close friends and relatives."
FCO Press Office: 020 7008 3100Press Office, Downing Street (West), London SW1A 2AL Telephone: 020 70083100 Fax: 020 7008 3734
London, 31 December/GNN/ --
FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
News Release issued by the Government News Network on 31 December 2005
"We are glad that these last few days are over and we would like to expressour gratitude to the Palestinian Authority, the British Government and allgroups and individuals in Gaza and worldwide who have been supporting usand working around the clock to secure our release. We are in good healthand have been treated extremely well through the ordeal. Kate Burton plans to stay in the region and continue working with thePalestinian people. The incident was just one in the context of a severelyincreasing state of insecurity in the Gaza Strip, and Kate remains committedand passionate about working alongside the Palestinians to improve theirexternal image and alleviate the difficult conditions being suffered by the Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip.After these difficult few days, the family strongly requests that they beleft in peace to recover with close friends and relatives."
FCO Press Office: 020 7008 3100Press Office, Downing Street (West), London SW1A 2AL Telephone: 020 70083100 Fax: 020 7008 3734
New York Arab Comedy Festival in LA
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The New York Arab-American Comedy Festival is coming to
Los Angeles from January 24-26, 2006
December 31, 2005 (New York, NY) – Today, organizers behind the groundbreaking New York Arab American Comedy Festival (NYAACF) announced that they will be taking their critically acclaimed Festival on the road for the first time ever as they travel to Los Angeles for three nights: Tuesday, January 24 – Thursday, January 26, 2006. This LA run follows the overwhelming success of the third annual NYAACF held in New York City from November 13-17, 2005 and which saw over one thousand people attend the five nights of sold out events.
The NYAACF - the only festival in the country exclusively dedicated to celebrating the humor of Arab-Americans - now comes to Los Angeles to bring its unique brand of edgy comedy to the West Coast with two nights of comedic theater shows and one night of stand up comedy. No topic is off-limits as the theater pieces comedically tackle such topics as Hollywood's casting of Arabs, Arab-Americans fear of Arab terrorists, and even lessons on how to be a “real Arab.” The stand up comedy show will present the top Arab-American comics in the country as these award winning comedians from NY and LA come together for one special show.
Created in 2003, the NYAACF is both a showcase for talented Arab-American performers and writers as well as a vehicle to dispel negative stereotypes about Arab-Americans. Given the difficulties persons of Middle Eastern descent have faced over the last several years, in this country and abroad, the Festival provides a powerful mix of unique political observations and comedic relief. In its first three years, the Festival has attracted positive media coverage for both the artists involved and the Arab-American community. The NYAACF has received positive media coverage literally around the world as it has been featured on CNN, NPR, BBC and in newspaper articles from New York to Australia. Past participants have included two-time Emmy award winning actor Tony Shalhoub, award winning actress Kathy Najimy and most recently M*A*S*H's Jamie Farr.
The LA festival will showcase the best plays, actors and comedians from the first three years of the NYAACF as these talented performers travel from New York to LA. The performers scheduled to appear in LA include, Leila Sbitani, the current host of the popular Nickelodeon show, Hi-Jinks; Actor Ramsey Faragallah who starred Off-Broadway in the highly acclaimed Guantánamo: Honor Bound to Defend Freedom, as well as being featured in the hit movie, The Interpreter; Actor Piter Marek, who co-starred in the TNT mini-series The Grid; LA based comedians Ahmed Ahmed, who receieved the Richard Pryor award at last year's Edinburgh Festival in Scotland and Aron Kader, who has been featured on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and Fox’s “The Bernie Mac Show; Israeli-Arab actress Hend Ayoub who is co-starring in the award winning and critically acclaimed feature film "Private" which recently opened in LA; and Festival co-founders Dean Obeidallah, a comedian who was awarded this past October, The Bill Hicks Spirit Award for "thought provoking comedy" by the NY Underground Comedy Festival and who has appeared recently on CNN, NPR, and the national Air America radio network, and Maysoon Zayid, comedian and actress, who has been featured on NBC's Nightly News, MTV, and As the World Turns. The theater shows will be held Tuesday, January 24 and Wednesday, January 25 at 8:00 PM at the Hudson Mainstage Theater and tickets can be purchased through Plays411 at www.plays411.com or by calling (323) 960-7745. The stand up comedy show will be held Thursday, January 26 at 7:45 PM at The Laugh Factory in Hollywood and tickets can be purchased by calling (323) 656-1336 or by visiting the Laugh Factory’s website: www.laughfactory.com.
For more information about the Festival, please visit: www.ArabComedy.org or call Dean Obeidallah at 917-607-4047.
New York Arab-American Comedy Festival in LA: January 24-26, 2006
Theatre Nights
Tuesday, January 24 – 8 pm
Wednesday, January 25 - 8 pm
Hudson Mainstage Theater
6539 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, Ca 90038
www.hudsontheatre.com
Theater Tickets: $20
Tickets exclusively available through
Plays411 at www.plays411.com or
by calling (323) 960-7745.
NYAACF Play Selections for Los Angeles
(in alphabetic order by title)
“A” Date
Playwright: Lameece Issaq
Director: Shoshana Gold
Performed By:
Lamia ….. Leila Buck
Inass …… Lameece Isaaq
Miriam .... Maysoon Zayid
Ibrahim … Laith Nakli
Maher ….. Sam Younis*
Featuring: …. Maha Chehlaoui
And now a word from one of our sponsors…
Playwright: Dean Obeidallah
Director: Dean Obeidallah
Performed By:
Mustapha …. Ramsey Faragallah*
Marwan …… Waleed Zuaiter*
Mona ………. Hend Ayoub
Featuring: Neil Potter and Aron Kader
Browntown
(Selected scenes from the full-length play)
Playwright: Sam Younis
Director: Abigail Marateck
Performed By:
Malek………...Sam Younis* Omar…………Waleed Zuaiter* Vijay…………..Piter Marek*
Casting Director …… Neil Potter
Sherry ……. Bethel Caram
Hi Joan
Playwright: Maysoon Zayid and the Nibras Ignition Workshop
Director: Nathalie Handal
Performed By:
Joan …. Leila Sbitani*
Dania … Tamar Vezirian
Susan …. Maha Chehlaoui
Featuring: …. Ryan Shrime
Love in Las Vegas
Playwright: Jana Zenadeen
Director: Piter Marek
Performed By:
Bride ….. Jana Zenadeen
Groom … Ryan Shrime
Train
Playwright: Neil Potter & Bethel Caram
Director: Ahmed Amer
Performed By:
Renee ….. Najla Said
George … Joseph Kamal*
*These Actors are appearing courtesy of Actors' Equity Association.
Stand Up Comedy Night
Thursday, January 26 – 7:45 PM
The Laugh Factory
8001 Sunset Boulevard
Hollywood, Ca. 90046
For Reservations,
Please call (323) 656-1336 or Visit
www.laughfactory.com.
Tickets $20 each plus
2 Drink Minimum
Comics Scheduled to Appear:
Ahmed Ahmed
Aron Kader
Ronnie Khalil
Nasry Malak
Helen Maalik
Dean Obeidallah
Maysoon Zayid
The New York Arab-American Comedy Festival is coming to
Los Angeles from January 24-26, 2006
December 31, 2005 (New York, NY) – Today, organizers behind the groundbreaking New York Arab American Comedy Festival (NYAACF) announced that they will be taking their critically acclaimed Festival on the road for the first time ever as they travel to Los Angeles for three nights: Tuesday, January 24 – Thursday, January 26, 2006. This LA run follows the overwhelming success of the third annual NYAACF held in New York City from November 13-17, 2005 and which saw over one thousand people attend the five nights of sold out events.
The NYAACF - the only festival in the country exclusively dedicated to celebrating the humor of Arab-Americans - now comes to Los Angeles to bring its unique brand of edgy comedy to the West Coast with two nights of comedic theater shows and one night of stand up comedy. No topic is off-limits as the theater pieces comedically tackle such topics as Hollywood's casting of Arabs, Arab-Americans fear of Arab terrorists, and even lessons on how to be a “real Arab.” The stand up comedy show will present the top Arab-American comics in the country as these award winning comedians from NY and LA come together for one special show.
Created in 2003, the NYAACF is both a showcase for talented Arab-American performers and writers as well as a vehicle to dispel negative stereotypes about Arab-Americans. Given the difficulties persons of Middle Eastern descent have faced over the last several years, in this country and abroad, the Festival provides a powerful mix of unique political observations and comedic relief. In its first three years, the Festival has attracted positive media coverage for both the artists involved and the Arab-American community. The NYAACF has received positive media coverage literally around the world as it has been featured on CNN, NPR, BBC and in newspaper articles from New York to Australia. Past participants have included two-time Emmy award winning actor Tony Shalhoub, award winning actress Kathy Najimy and most recently M*A*S*H's Jamie Farr.
The LA festival will showcase the best plays, actors and comedians from the first three years of the NYAACF as these talented performers travel from New York to LA. The performers scheduled to appear in LA include, Leila Sbitani, the current host of the popular Nickelodeon show, Hi-Jinks; Actor Ramsey Faragallah who starred Off-Broadway in the highly acclaimed Guantánamo: Honor Bound to Defend Freedom, as well as being featured in the hit movie, The Interpreter; Actor Piter Marek, who co-starred in the TNT mini-series The Grid; LA based comedians Ahmed Ahmed, who receieved the Richard Pryor award at last year's Edinburgh Festival in Scotland and Aron Kader, who has been featured on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and Fox’s “The Bernie Mac Show; Israeli-Arab actress Hend Ayoub who is co-starring in the award winning and critically acclaimed feature film "Private" which recently opened in LA; and Festival co-founders Dean Obeidallah, a comedian who was awarded this past October, The Bill Hicks Spirit Award for "thought provoking comedy" by the NY Underground Comedy Festival and who has appeared recently on CNN, NPR, and the national Air America radio network, and Maysoon Zayid, comedian and actress, who has been featured on NBC's Nightly News, MTV, and As the World Turns. The theater shows will be held Tuesday, January 24 and Wednesday, January 25 at 8:00 PM at the Hudson Mainstage Theater and tickets can be purchased through Plays411 at www.plays411.com or by calling (323) 960-7745. The stand up comedy show will be held Thursday, January 26 at 7:45 PM at The Laugh Factory in Hollywood and tickets can be purchased by calling (323) 656-1336 or by visiting the Laugh Factory’s website: www.laughfactory.com.
For more information about the Festival, please visit: www.ArabComedy.org or call Dean Obeidallah at 917-607-4047.
New York Arab-American Comedy Festival in LA: January 24-26, 2006
Theatre Nights
Tuesday, January 24 – 8 pm
Wednesday, January 25 - 8 pm
Hudson Mainstage Theater
6539 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, Ca 90038
www.hudsontheatre.com
Theater Tickets: $20
Tickets exclusively available through
Plays411 at www.plays411.com or
by calling (323) 960-7745.
NYAACF Play Selections for Los Angeles
(in alphabetic order by title)
“A” Date
Playwright: Lameece Issaq
Director: Shoshana Gold
Performed By:
Lamia ….. Leila Buck
Inass …… Lameece Isaaq
Miriam .... Maysoon Zayid
Ibrahim … Laith Nakli
Maher ….. Sam Younis*
Featuring: …. Maha Chehlaoui
And now a word from one of our sponsors…
Playwright: Dean Obeidallah
Director: Dean Obeidallah
Performed By:
Mustapha …. Ramsey Faragallah*
Marwan …… Waleed Zuaiter*
Mona ………. Hend Ayoub
Featuring: Neil Potter and Aron Kader
Browntown
(Selected scenes from the full-length play)
Playwright: Sam Younis
Director: Abigail Marateck
Performed By:
Malek………...Sam Younis* Omar…………Waleed Zuaiter* Vijay…………..Piter Marek*
Casting Director …… Neil Potter
Sherry ……. Bethel Caram
Hi Joan
Playwright: Maysoon Zayid and the Nibras Ignition Workshop
Director: Nathalie Handal
Performed By:
Joan …. Leila Sbitani*
Dania … Tamar Vezirian
Susan …. Maha Chehlaoui
Featuring: …. Ryan Shrime
Love in Las Vegas
Playwright: Jana Zenadeen
Director: Piter Marek
Performed By:
Bride ….. Jana Zenadeen
Groom … Ryan Shrime
Train
Playwright: Neil Potter & Bethel Caram
Director: Ahmed Amer
Performed By:
Renee ….. Najla Said
George … Joseph Kamal*
*These Actors are appearing courtesy of Actors' Equity Association.
Stand Up Comedy Night
Thursday, January 26 – 7:45 PM
The Laugh Factory
8001 Sunset Boulevard
Hollywood, Ca. 90046
For Reservations,
Please call (323) 656-1336 or Visit
www.laughfactory.com.
Tickets $20 each plus
2 Drink Minimum
Comics Scheduled to Appear:
Ahmed Ahmed
Aron Kader
Ronnie Khalil
Nasry Malak
Helen Maalik
Dean Obeidallah
Maysoon Zayid
Palestine Red Crescent Society Release on continued human rights violations
Press Release for the period 10-16 December 2005
During this reporting period, the Israeli Army has continued to violate International Humanitarian Law and Fundamental Human Rights, by restricting freedom of movement to Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) ambulances and its medical teams. Delays, denial of access and arbitrary searches had a negative impact on wounded and sick in Al-Ezariyeh, Al-Bireh, Jenin & Nablus.
Al Ezariyeh, 14/12/2005, 03:00 AM: A PRCS was stopped and denied access, at Zay’im checkpoint, while on route to transport a woman in labor from Abu Deis Suburb to Al Maqased hospital in east Jerusalem. The soldiers took the crew’s Identity cards for check. After 20 minutes had elapsed the soldiers ordered the crew to return back. The crew tried to explain to the soldiers the urgency to transport the woman to hospital. The soldiers ignored their request. The woman in labor was allowed to enter into Jerusalem by taxi. The ambulance was subjected to arbitrary search and the crew was obliged to turn off their communication equipments. After one and a half hour had elapsed the crew was allowed to return back.
Al-Bireh, 13/12/2005, 14:30 PM: A PRCS ambulance was stopped and denied access by the Israeli soldiers at Kalandiya checkpoint, while on route to transport a woman in labor from the checkpoint to hospital. The crew tried to cross the checkpoint in an attempt to administer emergency medication to the woman in labor, but the soldiers prevented them and threatened the emergency medial technician using their weapons. When the woman was almost ready to give birth, her accompany carried her, crossed the checkpoint and delivered her to the PRCS crew. The crew immediately began to assist the woman who delivered her baby within a couple of minutes inside the ambulance. Its worth mentioning that this is not the first incident in which women in labor denied access to hospitals and delivers at the above mentioned check point.
Al Bireh, 12/12/2005, 10:00 AM: A PRCS crew was attacked and its emergency medical technician was detained by the Israeli soldiers, at Shufat camp checkpoint. For more information go to:
http://www.palestinercs.org/pressreleases/Year%202005/pr131205wbrr.htm
The following table lists incidents of delays of access during this reporting period.
PRCS Branch
Date
Checkpoint
Delay of access (unless indicated 'denied access')
Jenin
12/12/2005
Jannat
70 minutes
12/12/2005
Jannat
70 minutes
Nablus
13/12/2005
Hizma
60 minutes & denied access
13/12/2005
Hizma
60 minutes & denied access
During this reporting period, a total of 11 deaths & 24 injuries were reported in the West Bank and Gaza.
These practices constitute a breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention and the First Additional Protocol of the Geneva Conventions, which are legally applied to the Occupied Palestinian Territory. In particular, they violate articles 20 of the Fourth Geneva Convention which guarantees the protection and respect of persons who engage in the search for, removal and transport of and caring for wounded and sick civilians, and article 63 which stresses that ” Subject to temporary and exceptional measures imposed for urgent reasons of security by the Occupied Power, recognized National red cross and red crescent societies shall be able to pursue their activities in accordance with Red Cross principles, as defined by the international Red Cross Conferences…”. In addition to articles 12 and 15 of the First Additional Protocol of the Geneva conventions which guarantees that “ Medical units shall be respected and protected at all times and shall not be the object of attack and shall have access to any place where their services are essential” and article 16 which stresses that, “Under no circumstances shall any person be punished for carrying out medical activities compatible with medical ethics, regardless of the person benefiting there from.”, in addition to article 21, which stresses that,” Medical vehicles shall be respected and protected in the same way as mobile medical units under the Conventions and this Protocol.”
For full text see: http://www.palestinercs.org/IHL_Refrence_Text.htm
**************************************************For more information please contact Press Office at: phone: +972 2 240 6515/6/7E-mail: pressoffice@palestinercs.org
During this reporting period, the Israeli Army has continued to violate International Humanitarian Law and Fundamental Human Rights, by restricting freedom of movement to Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) ambulances and its medical teams. Delays, denial of access and arbitrary searches had a negative impact on wounded and sick in Al-Ezariyeh, Al-Bireh, Jenin & Nablus.
Al Ezariyeh, 14/12/2005, 03:00 AM: A PRCS was stopped and denied access, at Zay’im checkpoint, while on route to transport a woman in labor from Abu Deis Suburb to Al Maqased hospital in east Jerusalem. The soldiers took the crew’s Identity cards for check. After 20 minutes had elapsed the soldiers ordered the crew to return back. The crew tried to explain to the soldiers the urgency to transport the woman to hospital. The soldiers ignored their request. The woman in labor was allowed to enter into Jerusalem by taxi. The ambulance was subjected to arbitrary search and the crew was obliged to turn off their communication equipments. After one and a half hour had elapsed the crew was allowed to return back.
Al-Bireh, 13/12/2005, 14:30 PM: A PRCS ambulance was stopped and denied access by the Israeli soldiers at Kalandiya checkpoint, while on route to transport a woman in labor from the checkpoint to hospital. The crew tried to cross the checkpoint in an attempt to administer emergency medication to the woman in labor, but the soldiers prevented them and threatened the emergency medial technician using their weapons. When the woman was almost ready to give birth, her accompany carried her, crossed the checkpoint and delivered her to the PRCS crew. The crew immediately began to assist the woman who delivered her baby within a couple of minutes inside the ambulance. Its worth mentioning that this is not the first incident in which women in labor denied access to hospitals and delivers at the above mentioned check point.
Al Bireh, 12/12/2005, 10:00 AM: A PRCS crew was attacked and its emergency medical technician was detained by the Israeli soldiers, at Shufat camp checkpoint. For more information go to:
http://www.palestinercs.org/pressreleases/Year%202005/pr131205wbrr.htm
The following table lists incidents of delays of access during this reporting period.
PRCS Branch
Date
Checkpoint
Delay of access (unless indicated 'denied access')
Jenin
12/12/2005
Jannat
70 minutes
12/12/2005
Jannat
70 minutes
Nablus
13/12/2005
Hizma
60 minutes & denied access
13/12/2005
Hizma
60 minutes & denied access
During this reporting period, a total of 11 deaths & 24 injuries were reported in the West Bank and Gaza.
These practices constitute a breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention and the First Additional Protocol of the Geneva Conventions, which are legally applied to the Occupied Palestinian Territory. In particular, they violate articles 20 of the Fourth Geneva Convention which guarantees the protection and respect of persons who engage in the search for, removal and transport of and caring for wounded and sick civilians, and article 63 which stresses that ” Subject to temporary and exceptional measures imposed for urgent reasons of security by the Occupied Power, recognized National red cross and red crescent societies shall be able to pursue their activities in accordance with Red Cross principles, as defined by the international Red Cross Conferences…”. In addition to articles 12 and 15 of the First Additional Protocol of the Geneva conventions which guarantees that “ Medical units shall be respected and protected at all times and shall not be the object of attack and shall have access to any place where their services are essential” and article 16 which stresses that, “Under no circumstances shall any person be punished for carrying out medical activities compatible with medical ethics, regardless of the person benefiting there from.”, in addition to article 21, which stresses that,” Medical vehicles shall be respected and protected in the same way as mobile medical units under the Conventions and this Protocol.”
For full text see: http://www.palestinercs.org/IHL_Refrence_Text.htm
**************************************************For more information please contact Press Office at: phone: +972 2 240 6515/6/7E-mail: pressoffice@palestinercs.org
Thursday, December 29, 2005
DAIR -- Israelis planning to Ban Jerusalem Christians and Muslims from voting in Palestinian elections
Press Release
Dec. 29, 2005
The Department of Arab and International Relations (DAIR)
alerts of banning Jerusalemites from participating in 2006 PLC elections.
By the time that both Palestinians and their leadership are insisting to
accomplish the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) elections on the due
date (Jan. 2006) – which is crucial to attain democracy and freedom-,
Israeli official statements are proclaiming that the Jerusalemites are to be
banned from participating in the PLC elections.
The Israeli measures prohibited the Palestinian Central Election Commission
from registering Jerusalemites voters; the offices were closed and the
employees were threatened; in an attempt to avert PLC elections.
Escalating the Israeli measures in the Occupied Jerusalem and preventing the
Jerusalemites from participating in the Palestinian democracy and electoral
process, are not more than aimed steps to Judaization and sever Jerusalem
from any Palestinian surroundings.
According to the UN resolutions, East Jerusalem is an occupied city where
International Laws are applied on just as the Palestinian lands that were
occupied in 1967. So, the Jerusalemites have the right to participate in the
PLC elections inside their occupied city; the right that cannot be denied by
anyone.
DAIR calls upon the UN and Quartet, especially USA to intervene to allow the
Palestinians inside the Occupied Jerusalem participate in the PLC elections,
and guarantee the proper conditions to hold the elections without any
Israeli Interference. Without Jerusalem, no elections will take place
because Jerusalem is the eternal Palestinian capital and the Palestinian
people and their leadership will never give up this right.
The Department of Arab and International Relations
PLO
Ramallah
Dec. 29th 2005
Dec. 29, 2005
The Department of Arab and International Relations (DAIR)
alerts of banning Jerusalemites from participating in 2006 PLC elections.
By the time that both Palestinians and their leadership are insisting to
accomplish the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) elections on the due
date (Jan. 2006) – which is crucial to attain democracy and freedom-,
Israeli official statements are proclaiming that the Jerusalemites are to be
banned from participating in the PLC elections.
The Israeli measures prohibited the Palestinian Central Election Commission
from registering Jerusalemites voters; the offices were closed and the
employees were threatened; in an attempt to avert PLC elections.
Escalating the Israeli measures in the Occupied Jerusalem and preventing the
Jerusalemites from participating in the Palestinian democracy and electoral
process, are not more than aimed steps to Judaization and sever Jerusalem
from any Palestinian surroundings.
According to the UN resolutions, East Jerusalem is an occupied city where
International Laws are applied on just as the Palestinian lands that were
occupied in 1967. So, the Jerusalemites have the right to participate in the
PLC elections inside their occupied city; the right that cannot be denied by
anyone.
DAIR calls upon the UN and Quartet, especially USA to intervene to allow the
Palestinians inside the Occupied Jerusalem participate in the PLC elections,
and guarantee the proper conditions to hold the elections without any
Israeli Interference. Without Jerusalem, no elections will take place
because Jerusalem is the eternal Palestinian capital and the Palestinian
people and their leadership will never give up this right.
The Department of Arab and International Relations
PLO
Ramallah
Dec. 29th 2005
Friday, December 23, 2005
"Free" Iraqi government imprisons and threatens journalists and free speech
Committee to Protect Journalists
330 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA Phone: (212) 465‑1004 Fax: (212) 465‑9568 Web: www.cpj.org E-Mail: media@cpj.org
http://www.cpj.org
Contact: Judy Blank
e-mail: info@cpj.org
Telephone: (212) 465-1004 ext. 105
December 23, 2005
His Excellency Dr. Ibrahim al-Jaafari
Prime Minister
C/o Embassy of the Republic of Iraq
1801 P St., NW
Washington, DC 20036
By Facsimile: 202-462-5066
Your Excellency:The Committee to Protect Journalists wishes to express its grave concern about the criminal prosecution of Ayad Mahmoud al-Tamimi and Ahmed Mutair Abbas, editor-in-chief and managing editor respectively of the now-defunct Iraqi daily Sada Wasit, a local newspaper in the southern city of Kut. Both men face more than 10 years in prison or heavy fines if convicted of four separate defamation charges brought by local government officials in Wasit Province in response to critical articles that they published in 2005.
Al-Tamimi and Abbas, are charged under article 226 of the Iraqi penal code of defaming local police and the judiciary. Their trial is set for December 25, 2005.
The Judiciary Council brought a defamation charge over one article titled “The Men of the Judiciary and Judges of Bremer,” which compared Iraq’s judicial system today with that of the former Baathist regime.
Police brought a charge over another article about an Iraqi allegedly abducted by Iraqi Special Forces. When the family of the abducted man went to City Hall to inquire about his whereabouts they, too, were arrested.
A third story, based on an article in the Washington Post, discussed corruption in the Iraqi police force. The last article sparked separate judicial complaints from the police and former Wasit governor Mohammed Ridha al-Jashaamy.
The criminal charges against al-Tammimi and Abbas are part of a larger pattern of judicial harassment. In 2004, Abbas and al-Tammimi were jailed for seven months and five months respectively, in response to separate articles they wrote that allegedly defamed al-Jashaamy by criticizing his governorship.
A free press is a cornerstone of democracy and in order for it to function properly, journalists must be able to carry out their jobs without interference from authorities and the fear of imprisonment. Journalists should never be imprisoned for what they write. If individuals feel that their reputations have been harmed they should have recourse to civil, not criminal, remedies.
We believe the criminal prosecution of Ayad Mahmoud al-Tamimi and Ahmed Mutair Abbas sends a troubling message to all Iraqi journalists. If both men are sentenced to jail it would deal a serious blow to press freedoms in Iraq. We therefore call on you to assert your leadership and examine all possible legal options to ensure that that the criminal charges against them is dismissed and that they no longer face the threat of imprisonment for their work.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your reply.
Ann Cooper
Executive Director
CC:
His Excellency Jalal Talabani
His Excellency Abul Hussein Shandal
His Excellency Mohammed Ridha al-Jashaamy
The Honorable Zalmay Khalilzad
American Society of Newspaper Editors
Amnesty International
Article 19 (United Kingdom)
Canadian Journalists for Free Expression
Fred Eckhard, Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan
Freedom Forum
Freedom House
Human Rights Watch
Index on Censorship
International Center for Journalists
International Federation of Journalists
International PEN
International Press Institute
Louise Arbour, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights
Glyn T. Davies, Acting U.S. Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
The Newspaper Guild
The North American Broadcasters Association
Overseas Press Club
Reporters Sans Frontières
The Society of Professional Journalists
World Association of Newspapers
World Press Freedom Committee
330 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA Phone: (212) 465‑1004 Fax: (212) 465‑9568 Web: www.cpj.org E-Mail: media@cpj.org
http://www.cpj.org
Contact: Judy Blank
e-mail: info@cpj.org
Telephone: (212) 465-1004 ext. 105
December 23, 2005
His Excellency Dr. Ibrahim al-Jaafari
Prime Minister
C/o Embassy of the Republic of Iraq
1801 P St., NW
Washington, DC 20036
By Facsimile: 202-462-5066
Your Excellency:The Committee to Protect Journalists wishes to express its grave concern about the criminal prosecution of Ayad Mahmoud al-Tamimi and Ahmed Mutair Abbas, editor-in-chief and managing editor respectively of the now-defunct Iraqi daily Sada Wasit, a local newspaper in the southern city of Kut. Both men face more than 10 years in prison or heavy fines if convicted of four separate defamation charges brought by local government officials in Wasit Province in response to critical articles that they published in 2005.
Al-Tamimi and Abbas, are charged under article 226 of the Iraqi penal code of defaming local police and the judiciary. Their trial is set for December 25, 2005.
The Judiciary Council brought a defamation charge over one article titled “The Men of the Judiciary and Judges of Bremer,” which compared Iraq’s judicial system today with that of the former Baathist regime.
Police brought a charge over another article about an Iraqi allegedly abducted by Iraqi Special Forces. When the family of the abducted man went to City Hall to inquire about his whereabouts they, too, were arrested.
A third story, based on an article in the Washington Post, discussed corruption in the Iraqi police force. The last article sparked separate judicial complaints from the police and former Wasit governor Mohammed Ridha al-Jashaamy.
The criminal charges against al-Tammimi and Abbas are part of a larger pattern of judicial harassment. In 2004, Abbas and al-Tammimi were jailed for seven months and five months respectively, in response to separate articles they wrote that allegedly defamed al-Jashaamy by criticizing his governorship.
A free press is a cornerstone of democracy and in order for it to function properly, journalists must be able to carry out their jobs without interference from authorities and the fear of imprisonment. Journalists should never be imprisoned for what they write. If individuals feel that their reputations have been harmed they should have recourse to civil, not criminal, remedies.
We believe the criminal prosecution of Ayad Mahmoud al-Tamimi and Ahmed Mutair Abbas sends a troubling message to all Iraqi journalists. If both men are sentenced to jail it would deal a serious blow to press freedoms in Iraq. We therefore call on you to assert your leadership and examine all possible legal options to ensure that that the criminal charges against them is dismissed and that they no longer face the threat of imprisonment for their work.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your reply.
Ann Cooper
Executive Director
CC:
His Excellency Jalal Talabani
His Excellency Abul Hussein Shandal
His Excellency Mohammed Ridha al-Jashaamy
The Honorable Zalmay Khalilzad
American Society of Newspaper Editors
Amnesty International
Article 19 (United Kingdom)
Canadian Journalists for Free Expression
Fred Eckhard, Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan
Freedom Forum
Freedom House
Human Rights Watch
Index on Censorship
International Center for Journalists
International Federation of Journalists
International PEN
International Press Institute
Louise Arbour, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights
Glyn T. Davies, Acting U.S. Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
The Newspaper Guild
The North American Broadcasters Association
Overseas Press Club
Reporters Sans Frontières
The Society of Professional Journalists
World Association of Newspapers
World Press Freedom Committee
Rev. Elias Chcour to visit Chicago area March 24
SAVE THE DATE (S)
FR. Elias Chacour, the noted theologian and peace activist, will be here the weekend of March 24th.
We look forward to seeing you at one or more of the
special events. Plan to be energized and electrified.
Please plan on attending as many as you can.
There will be different messages at each one.
You won't be disappointed.
Proceeds are tax deductible and go to Mar Elias Schools in the Holy Land where students of all faiths are welcome.
Sponsored by Pilgrims of Ibillin, Olive Branch Chapter, a Non profit 501-C3.
To volunteer or order tickets, please call 630-653-8309.
Watch for your invitation.
SAVE THE DATES NOW.
Father Elias Chacour’s
visit to Chicago Land Area
MARCH 2006
SAVE THE DATE (S)
THURSDAY 23RD NORTH PARK UNIV.
P.M. Chicago
FRIDAY 24TH BENEFIT DINNER
P.M. The Lodge
Mc Donald’s Corp. Hqtrs.
SATURDAY 25TH PILGRIM’S BREAKFAST
A.M. First Presbyterian Church
Wheaton
SATURDAY 25TH BIBLICAL FEAST
P.M. St. Matthew Catholic
Church
Glendale Heights
SUNDAY 26TH WORSHIP SERVICE
A.M. Christ Church
Oakbrook
SUNDAY 26TH PRESENTATION
P.M. Chicago Temple
FR. Elias Chacour, the noted theologian and peace activist, will be here the weekend of March 24th.
We look forward to seeing you at one or more of the
special events. Plan to be energized and electrified.
Please plan on attending as many as you can.
There will be different messages at each one.
You won't be disappointed.
Proceeds are tax deductible and go to Mar Elias Schools in the Holy Land where students of all faiths are welcome.
Sponsored by Pilgrims of Ibillin, Olive Branch Chapter, a Non profit 501-C3.
To volunteer or order tickets, please call 630-653-8309.
Watch for your invitation.
SAVE THE DATES NOW.
Father Elias Chacour’s
visit to Chicago Land Area
MARCH 2006
SAVE THE DATE (S)
THURSDAY 23RD NORTH PARK UNIV.
P.M. Chicago
FRIDAY 24TH BENEFIT DINNER
P.M. The Lodge
Mc Donald’s Corp. Hqtrs.
SATURDAY 25TH PILGRIM’S BREAKFAST
A.M. First Presbyterian Church
Wheaton
SATURDAY 25TH BIBLICAL FEAST
P.M. St. Matthew Catholic
Church
Glendale Heights
SUNDAY 26TH WORSHIP SERVICE
A.M. Christ Church
Oakbrook
SUNDAY 26TH PRESENTATION
P.M. Chicago Temple
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Saudi King Abdullah calls for Unity, Tolerance among Muslims
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 7, 2005
CONTACT:
Saudi Information Office
(202) 337-4076
www.saudiembassy.net
SAUDI KING ABDULLAH CALLS FOR UNITY, TOLERANCE AMONG MUSLIMS
[Washington, DC] [December 7, 2005] -- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz today called for unity and tolerance in order to address the challenges faced by the Muslim world in remarks opening the third extraordinary summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
“Let us bid farewell to the age of division and disintegration in order to usher in a new era of unity and dignity,” King Abdullah said. “I look forward to a united Muslim ummah [community] and good governance that eliminate injustice and oppression for the sake of the comprehensive Muslim development that eradicates destitution and poverty.”
The King denounced extremism and stressed that unity must be achieved through tolerance, not bloodshed. “How painful that the ideology sprouted forth by criminal minds has unleashed wanton evil and corruption on earth,” he said. “Islamic unity will not be achieved by bloodletting as the miscreants – in their misguided waywardness – insist on claiming. Fanaticism and extremism cannot grow on an earth whose soil is embedded in the spirit of tolerance, moderation, and balance.”
The two-day summit has been convened in response to a call made earlier by King Abdullah. Its goals include strengthening Islamic unity to fight common challenges, developing a plan for reforming the OIC, and addressing the issues of disaster relief, poverty and disease.
For a full transcript of King Abdullah’s remarks, please visit www.saudiembassy.net.
This is distributed by Qorvis Communications, LLC on behalf of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC
December 7, 2005
CONTACT:
Saudi Information Office
(202) 337-4076
www.saudiembassy.net
SAUDI KING ABDULLAH CALLS FOR UNITY, TOLERANCE AMONG MUSLIMS
[Washington, DC] [December 7, 2005] -- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz today called for unity and tolerance in order to address the challenges faced by the Muslim world in remarks opening the third extraordinary summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
“Let us bid farewell to the age of division and disintegration in order to usher in a new era of unity and dignity,” King Abdullah said. “I look forward to a united Muslim ummah [community] and good governance that eliminate injustice and oppression for the sake of the comprehensive Muslim development that eradicates destitution and poverty.”
The King denounced extremism and stressed that unity must be achieved through tolerance, not bloodshed. “How painful that the ideology sprouted forth by criminal minds has unleashed wanton evil and corruption on earth,” he said. “Islamic unity will not be achieved by bloodletting as the miscreants – in their misguided waywardness – insist on claiming. Fanaticism and extremism cannot grow on an earth whose soil is embedded in the spirit of tolerance, moderation, and balance.”
The two-day summit has been convened in response to a call made earlier by King Abdullah. Its goals include strengthening Islamic unity to fight common challenges, developing a plan for reforming the OIC, and addressing the issues of disaster relief, poverty and disease.
For a full transcript of King Abdullah’s remarks, please visit www.saudiembassy.net.
This is distributed by Qorvis Communications, LLC on behalf of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC
Monday, December 05, 2005
Pope Benedict Receives FIrst Citizen Passport for Bethlehem, Palestine
Press Release: 5 December 2005
Pope Benedict - First New Citizen of Bethlehem
President Abbas comments on presentation of passport
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has become the first new citizen of Bethlehem, having been presented with a Bethlehem passport by the Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, in a meeting at the Vatican on Saturday 3 December.
Commenting on the meeting, President Abbas said today (5 December): "His Holiness was moved to receive this accolade from the people of Bethlehem and paid special attention to the message of the passport."
The passport bears the stamp of the municipality of Bethlehem and of Open Bethlehem and states that: "The bearer of this passport is a citizen of Bethlehem; that they recognise this ancient city provides a light to the world, and to all people who uphold the values of a just and open society; that they will remain a true friend to Bethlehem through its imprisonment, and that they will strive to keep the ideals of Bethlehem alive as long as the wall stands; we ask you to respect the bearer of the passport and to let them pass freely."
Bethlehem faces a state of emergency following the completion of an eight metre high illegal cement wall at the entrance to the city that separates Bethlehem from Jerusalem and other Palestinian towns. With the Israeli wall and other closures, including militarised fences and illegal Jewish settlements, Bethlehem has been reduced to its urban core: a modern-day ghetto town.
President Mahmoud Abbas said: "The warmth of the meeting between the Palestinian delegation and His Holiness the Pope underlines the positive role that the Vatican can play in making the Holy sites accessible to all people, tourists, pilgrims and local worshippers. In accepting the Bethlehem passport, His Holiness reaffirms not only the importance of Bethlehem to our world heritage, but also the importance of the relationship between this ancient city and the Vatican, and the role that the Vatican can play in safeguarding the sacred relationship between Bethlehem and Jerusalem."
The Mayor of Bethlehem, Dr Victor Batarseh, said: "It is the multi-faith character of Bethlehem that makes it so important to an open democratic Middle East. The fear and loss of hope inspired by the wall is driving our citizens abroad, and this exodus is most pronounced among the Christian community."
Leila Sansour, chief executive of Open Bethlehem, said: "We are appealing to the Pope as well as citizens of the world to help us uphold the message of hope and renewal that was born in our city. We hope that the millions of people who hold Bethlehem close to their hearts will act for Bethlehem now, as it faces the most serious threat in its history."
-ends-
Notes for editors:
* Open Bethlehem was launched by the Mayor of Bethlehem on 9 November, declaring Bethlehem an open city and announcing the issue of a Bethlehem passport.
* Open Bethlehem is a city initiative that aims to promote Bethlehem as a prime destination for tourists, bold initiatives and investment. The core of its message is that Bethlehem is a city of openness and diversity, with a centuries-old tradition of welcoming travellers, refugees and pilgrims from across the world.
For more information and photographs please contact:
London: Patrick Orr: (44) 207 2225479; (44) 7909534430 Charlotte Carson: (44)7768305897
Bethlehem: Carol Dabdoub T. (972) 2 2741241 ext. 2470; M. (972) 545439841
www.openbethlehem.org
Pope Benedict - First New Citizen of Bethlehem
President Abbas comments on presentation of passport
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has become the first new citizen of Bethlehem, having been presented with a Bethlehem passport by the Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, in a meeting at the Vatican on Saturday 3 December.
Commenting on the meeting, President Abbas said today (5 December): "His Holiness was moved to receive this accolade from the people of Bethlehem and paid special attention to the message of the passport."
The passport bears the stamp of the municipality of Bethlehem and of Open Bethlehem and states that: "The bearer of this passport is a citizen of Bethlehem; that they recognise this ancient city provides a light to the world, and to all people who uphold the values of a just and open society; that they will remain a true friend to Bethlehem through its imprisonment, and that they will strive to keep the ideals of Bethlehem alive as long as the wall stands; we ask you to respect the bearer of the passport and to let them pass freely."
Bethlehem faces a state of emergency following the completion of an eight metre high illegal cement wall at the entrance to the city that separates Bethlehem from Jerusalem and other Palestinian towns. With the Israeli wall and other closures, including militarised fences and illegal Jewish settlements, Bethlehem has been reduced to its urban core: a modern-day ghetto town.
President Mahmoud Abbas said: "The warmth of the meeting between the Palestinian delegation and His Holiness the Pope underlines the positive role that the Vatican can play in making the Holy sites accessible to all people, tourists, pilgrims and local worshippers. In accepting the Bethlehem passport, His Holiness reaffirms not only the importance of Bethlehem to our world heritage, but also the importance of the relationship between this ancient city and the Vatican, and the role that the Vatican can play in safeguarding the sacred relationship between Bethlehem and Jerusalem."
The Mayor of Bethlehem, Dr Victor Batarseh, said: "It is the multi-faith character of Bethlehem that makes it so important to an open democratic Middle East. The fear and loss of hope inspired by the wall is driving our citizens abroad, and this exodus is most pronounced among the Christian community."
Leila Sansour, chief executive of Open Bethlehem, said: "We are appealing to the Pope as well as citizens of the world to help us uphold the message of hope and renewal that was born in our city. We hope that the millions of people who hold Bethlehem close to their hearts will act for Bethlehem now, as it faces the most serious threat in its history."
-ends-
Notes for editors:
* Open Bethlehem was launched by the Mayor of Bethlehem on 9 November, declaring Bethlehem an open city and announcing the issue of a Bethlehem passport.
* Open Bethlehem is a city initiative that aims to promote Bethlehem as a prime destination for tourists, bold initiatives and investment. The core of its message is that Bethlehem is a city of openness and diversity, with a centuries-old tradition of welcoming travellers, refugees and pilgrims from across the world.
For more information and photographs please contact:
London: Patrick Orr: (44) 207 2225479; (44) 7909534430 Charlotte Carson: (44)7768305897
Bethlehem: Carol Dabdoub T. (972) 2 2741241 ext. 2470; M. (972) 545439841
www.openbethlehem.org
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Arabesque Chicago monthly showcase deuts Dec. 14, 2005
ARABESQUE CHICAGO Arabesque Chicago is a monthly showcase of Arabic music held in the intimate performance space of Raven Theatre's East Stage, 6157 N. Clark St., Chicago.
The debut of Arabesque Chicago on Wednesday, December 14 at 8:00 p.m. features vocalist and ‘ud player Naser Musa, accompanied by percussionist Souhail Kaspar.Musa, a Jordanian of Palestinian descent, is a composer and arranger as well as a musician. He has toured and recorded with major Arab musicians worldwide, and is an instructor at the Mendocino Middle East Music Camp and Heartland Seminar on Arabic Music. His area of special interest is Bedouin music.
Kaspar, a native of Lebanon, was trained at Nadi al-Fonun al-Arabia in Aleppo, Syria. He has performed with Fairuz, Farid al-Atrache, Sting, and other high-profile entertainers and has recorded with Ali Jihad Racy, Kadim al-Sahir, and the Kronos Quartet.Musa and Kaspar collaborated on the CD “Khaliji: Songs of Love and Passion from the Arabian Gulf.”The Raven Theatre, in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, produces critically-acclaimed dramatic works ranging from American classics to contemporary plays.
Xauen Music of Chicago (www.xauen-music.com) is dedicated to preserving the heritage of classical Arabic, Armenian, Turkish, and Sephardic music. Xauen Music produces concerts and tours; records and distributes CDs; publishes scores, magazines, and books; and conducts educational seminars.
Tickets, at $8 for students/seniors and $12 general admission, are available at TicketWeb. For information, please call 847-830-8277. January's concert, on the 11th, will feature Iraqi musician Amir ElSaffar.
http://www.xauen-music.com/xauen-music
/events/arabesque/0512/index.html
The debut of Arabesque Chicago on Wednesday, December 14 at 8:00 p.m. features vocalist and ‘ud player Naser Musa, accompanied by percussionist Souhail Kaspar.Musa, a Jordanian of Palestinian descent, is a composer and arranger as well as a musician. He has toured and recorded with major Arab musicians worldwide, and is an instructor at the Mendocino Middle East Music Camp and Heartland Seminar on Arabic Music. His area of special interest is Bedouin music.
Kaspar, a native of Lebanon, was trained at Nadi al-Fonun al-Arabia in Aleppo, Syria. He has performed with Fairuz, Farid al-Atrache, Sting, and other high-profile entertainers and has recorded with Ali Jihad Racy, Kadim al-Sahir, and the Kronos Quartet.Musa and Kaspar collaborated on the CD “Khaliji: Songs of Love and Passion from the Arabian Gulf.”The Raven Theatre, in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, produces critically-acclaimed dramatic works ranging from American classics to contemporary plays.
Xauen Music of Chicago (www.xauen-music.com) is dedicated to preserving the heritage of classical Arabic, Armenian, Turkish, and Sephardic music. Xauen Music produces concerts and tours; records and distributes CDs; publishes scores, magazines, and books; and conducts educational seminars.
Tickets, at $8 for students/seniors and $12 general admission, are available at TicketWeb. For information, please call 847-830-8277. January's concert, on the 11th, will feature Iraqi musician Amir ElSaffar.
http://www.xauen-music.com/xauen-music
/events/arabesque/0512/index.html
Friday, December 02, 2005
Committee to Protect Journalists criticizes Egyptian elections
Committee to Protect Journalists
330 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA Phone: (212) 465‑1004 Fax: (212) 465‑9568 Web: www.cpj.org E-Mail: media@cpj.org
http://www.cpj.org
Contact: Joel Campagna
e-mail: info@cpj.org
Telephone: (212) 465-1004 ext. 103
EGYPT: Journalists covering elections harassed and attacked
New York, December 2, 2005—The Committee to Protect Journalists condemns the assault and harassment by Egyptian authorities of journalists covering parliamentary elections. CPJ sources and press reports confirm over a dozen cases in which journalists have been attacked, detained, or prevented from working since the first round of voting in the three-round election began on November 8.
The ruling National Democratic Party and security forces have ordered supporters to beat and harass voters and journalists, the CPJ sources and press reports said. Harassment has increased as Muslim Brotherhood members, whose candidates run as independents because the authorities have barred them from forming a party, have gained ground.
Police have fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse crowds outside polling places and prevented some voters from reaching polling booths, the sources said. Journalists covering these events were assaulted or jostled by security forces who confiscated tapes and equipment, and who briefly detained some reporters.
“It is outrageous that Egyptian authorities should tolerate the harassment and intimidation of journalists covering an election,” said CPJ Executive Director Ann Cooper. “We call on the government to ensure that all harassment of the local and foreign media stop immediately.”
On November 26, Asmaa Ali Hraiz, a reporter for the opposition weekly newspaper Al-Karama, was attacked, blindfolded and kidnapped near a polling station in the city of Shoubra al-Kheima, north of Cairo, by security agents, the paper’s editor-in-chief, Jamal Fahmy, told CPJ. Her kidnappers told her they were from the state security service and they took her cell phone, camera and a gold necklace. They threatened to rape her. The officer in charge ordered two female assailants to beat Hraiz unconscious. She was then dumped under the Six October Bridge in Cairo. She suffered broken ribs, serious injuries to her right arm, and bruises on the spine. The attack was reported to the Attorney General’s office, but no investigation has been launched, according to Fahmy.
On December 1, Ahmad Bayoumi, a freelance reporter for the Arabic satellite channel Al-Jazeera, and the channel’s cameraman Mohammad Ezzedin were assaulted at the Ben Aibad polling station in Mansoura, north of Cairo, by supporters of the National Democratic Party candidate Hassan al-Neer. Bayoumi was punched in the face and kicked in the back, while Ezzedin was shoved and pushed. They were threatened with knives and told to leave the area immediately. Security forces detained Mahmoud al-Maleegy, cameraman for Al-Jazeera, in the Nile delta town of Kafer Sheik, for an hour. They destroyed his camera and tape.
Security officers in civilian clothing held Amil Khan, a British citizen and correspondent for Reuters, at a polling station in Sandoub, 75 miles (120 kilometers) north of Cairo, for an hour. They questioned the authenticity of his press card and demanded to see his passport. After Khan began telephoning the Ministry of Information and the British embassy they let him go.
The Muslim Brotherhood has made significant gains, winning 76 seats so far, nearly five times the seats the group held in the last parliament. However, it won no seats in the final election round after police barred thousands of their supporters from voting.
CPJ is a New York–based, independent, nonprofit organization that works to safeguard press freedom worldwide. For more information, visit www.cpj.org.
330 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA Phone: (212) 465‑1004 Fax: (212) 465‑9568 Web: www.cpj.org E-Mail: media@cpj.org
http://www.cpj.org
Contact: Joel Campagna
e-mail: info@cpj.org
Telephone: (212) 465-1004 ext. 103
EGYPT: Journalists covering elections harassed and attacked
New York, December 2, 2005—The Committee to Protect Journalists condemns the assault and harassment by Egyptian authorities of journalists covering parliamentary elections. CPJ sources and press reports confirm over a dozen cases in which journalists have been attacked, detained, or prevented from working since the first round of voting in the three-round election began on November 8.
The ruling National Democratic Party and security forces have ordered supporters to beat and harass voters and journalists, the CPJ sources and press reports said. Harassment has increased as Muslim Brotherhood members, whose candidates run as independents because the authorities have barred them from forming a party, have gained ground.
Police have fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse crowds outside polling places and prevented some voters from reaching polling booths, the sources said. Journalists covering these events were assaulted or jostled by security forces who confiscated tapes and equipment, and who briefly detained some reporters.
“It is outrageous that Egyptian authorities should tolerate the harassment and intimidation of journalists covering an election,” said CPJ Executive Director Ann Cooper. “We call on the government to ensure that all harassment of the local and foreign media stop immediately.”
On November 26, Asmaa Ali Hraiz, a reporter for the opposition weekly newspaper Al-Karama, was attacked, blindfolded and kidnapped near a polling station in the city of Shoubra al-Kheima, north of Cairo, by security agents, the paper’s editor-in-chief, Jamal Fahmy, told CPJ. Her kidnappers told her they were from the state security service and they took her cell phone, camera and a gold necklace. They threatened to rape her. The officer in charge ordered two female assailants to beat Hraiz unconscious. She was then dumped under the Six October Bridge in Cairo. She suffered broken ribs, serious injuries to her right arm, and bruises on the spine. The attack was reported to the Attorney General’s office, but no investigation has been launched, according to Fahmy.
On December 1, Ahmad Bayoumi, a freelance reporter for the Arabic satellite channel Al-Jazeera, and the channel’s cameraman Mohammad Ezzedin were assaulted at the Ben Aibad polling station in Mansoura, north of Cairo, by supporters of the National Democratic Party candidate Hassan al-Neer. Bayoumi was punched in the face and kicked in the back, while Ezzedin was shoved and pushed. They were threatened with knives and told to leave the area immediately. Security forces detained Mahmoud al-Maleegy, cameraman for Al-Jazeera, in the Nile delta town of Kafer Sheik, for an hour. They destroyed his camera and tape.
Security officers in civilian clothing held Amil Khan, a British citizen and correspondent for Reuters, at a polling station in Sandoub, 75 miles (120 kilometers) north of Cairo, for an hour. They questioned the authenticity of his press card and demanded to see his passport. After Khan began telephoning the Ministry of Information and the British embassy they let him go.
The Muslim Brotherhood has made significant gains, winning 76 seats so far, nearly five times the seats the group held in the last parliament. However, it won no seats in the final election round after police barred thousands of their supporters from voting.
CPJ is a New York–based, independent, nonprofit organization that works to safeguard press freedom worldwide. For more information, visit www.cpj.org.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Middle East Christians praise US MidEast stand
PRESS ADVISORY
Church Leaders Commend Rice's Leadership in Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations, Ask for More
Washington,November 16, 2005 -- The State Department received on Monday a letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice from the national leaders of 21 Christian churches and church-related agencies encouraging her active engagement in Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking. The church leaders, through the coalition Churches for Middle East, signed the letter which was distributed to all members of Congress.
One of the signers, Rev. Bob Edgar, General Secretary the of National Council of Churches, today commended Secretary Rice for her persistent role in facilitating the negotiations that resulted yesterday in an agreement related to Gaza's border crossings and movement between Gaza and the West Bank. Quoting from the letter, "Hope is difficult to sustain as Israel continues to block movement of Palestinian people and goods," Edgar said he was newly encouraged by Secretary Rice's comment that "this agreement is intended to give the Palestinian people the freedom to move, to trade, to live ordinary lives."
Marie Dennis, who signed the letter as Director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, stressed the church leaders' appeal for U.S. leadership toward a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. "We believe that you and the President, working cooperatively with the Quartet, have the power to bring both sides to the negotiating table." She further said, "We cannot emphasize enough the significance of this moment and the imperative of the U.S. leadership."
The letter reflects the long-time interest of the U.S. churches in urging that Jerusalem be shared by the two peoples and the three Abrahamic faiths. The signers asked Secretary Rice to "ensure that Palestinians in East Jerusalem are able to participate fully in Palestinian legislative elections in January." Bishop Vicken Aykazian, signing for the Armenian Orthodox Church, sees it as a good sign that Israel complied with President Bush's insistence that building in the E1 area (near East Jerusalem) cease. "We are grateful that the Administration has continued to demand that settlement activity cease, and disappointed that Israel has ignored that request and other requirements of the Road Map."
Churches for Middle East Peace is a coalition of Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant churches and church-related agencies that advocates for U.S. policies that are conducive to peacemaking between Israel and the future state of Palestine. CMEP's Board members and staff meet with Congressional offices and with Administration officials, and provide advocacy guidance to church members and congregations across the country.
_____________
Formed in 1984, Churches for Middle East Peace is a Washington-based program of the Alliance of Baptists, American Friends Service Committee, Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Armenian Orthodox Church, Catholic Conference of Major Superiors of Men's Institutes, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Church of the Brethren, Church World Service, Episcopal Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Franciscan Friars OFM (English Speaking Conference, JPIC Council), Friends Committee on National Legislation, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Maryknoll Missioners, Mennonite Central Committee, National Council of Churches USA, Presbyterian Church (USA), Reformed Church in America, Unitarian Universalist Association, United Church of Christ, and the United Methodist Church (GBCS and GBGM).
For further information, see http://www.cmep.org/
For information, contact: Corinne Whitlatch, 202-543-1222; Leslie Tune, 202-544-2350, ltune@ncccusa.org
Church Leaders Commend Rice's Leadership in Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations, Ask for More
Washington,November 16, 2005 -- The State Department received on Monday a letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice from the national leaders of 21 Christian churches and church-related agencies encouraging her active engagement in Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking. The church leaders, through the coalition Churches for Middle East, signed the letter which was distributed to all members of Congress.
One of the signers, Rev. Bob Edgar, General Secretary the of National Council of Churches, today commended Secretary Rice for her persistent role in facilitating the negotiations that resulted yesterday in an agreement related to Gaza's border crossings and movement between Gaza and the West Bank. Quoting from the letter, "Hope is difficult to sustain as Israel continues to block movement of Palestinian people and goods," Edgar said he was newly encouraged by Secretary Rice's comment that "this agreement is intended to give the Palestinian people the freedom to move, to trade, to live ordinary lives."
Marie Dennis, who signed the letter as Director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, stressed the church leaders' appeal for U.S. leadership toward a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. "We believe that you and the President, working cooperatively with the Quartet, have the power to bring both sides to the negotiating table." She further said, "We cannot emphasize enough the significance of this moment and the imperative of the U.S. leadership."
The letter reflects the long-time interest of the U.S. churches in urging that Jerusalem be shared by the two peoples and the three Abrahamic faiths. The signers asked Secretary Rice to "ensure that Palestinians in East Jerusalem are able to participate fully in Palestinian legislative elections in January." Bishop Vicken Aykazian, signing for the Armenian Orthodox Church, sees it as a good sign that Israel complied with President Bush's insistence that building in the E1 area (near East Jerusalem) cease. "We are grateful that the Administration has continued to demand that settlement activity cease, and disappointed that Israel has ignored that request and other requirements of the Road Map."
Churches for Middle East Peace is a coalition of Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant churches and church-related agencies that advocates for U.S. policies that are conducive to peacemaking between Israel and the future state of Palestine. CMEP's Board members and staff meet with Congressional offices and with Administration officials, and provide advocacy guidance to church members and congregations across the country.
_____________
Formed in 1984, Churches for Middle East Peace is a Washington-based program of the Alliance of Baptists, American Friends Service Committee, Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Armenian Orthodox Church, Catholic Conference of Major Superiors of Men's Institutes, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Church of the Brethren, Church World Service, Episcopal Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Franciscan Friars OFM (English Speaking Conference, JPIC Council), Friends Committee on National Legislation, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Maryknoll Missioners, Mennonite Central Committee, National Council of Churches USA, Presbyterian Church (USA), Reformed Church in America, Unitarian Universalist Association, United Church of Christ, and the United Methodist Church (GBCS and GBGM).
For further information, see http://www.cmep.org/
For information, contact: Corinne Whitlatch, 202-543-1222; Leslie Tune, 202-544-2350, ltune@ncccusa.org
Ramadan to be honored annually in Illinois
OCTOBER TO BE DECLARED MONTH OF RAMADAN IN ILLINOIS
Roskam introduces measure recognizing Muslim holy month
The citizens of Illinois should respect and honor the faith and tradition of Muslims: Peter Roskam
For Immediate Release
Springfield, IL – In deference to the many adherents to the Muslim faith in Illinois, Senator Peter Roskam (R-Wheaton) has introduced a measure to recognize October as the holy month of Ramadan.
“America is a diverse country with many different people from many different cultures and backgrounds,” Roskam said. “We have, as a country, made it a point to set aside various months and weeks throughout the course of the year to celebrate our nation’s diverse heritage. I see no reason why we cannot focus a little attention on Muslims and their culture. After all, this country has and always will be a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.”
Senate Resolution 493 states that, “the citizens of Illinois should respect and honor the faith and tradition of Muslims; therefore by it resolved by the Senate of the Ninety-Fourth General Assembly of the State of Illinois, that we recognize October as the holy month of Ramadan.”
Roskam, a Republican candidate for Congressional 6th District, which is currently represented by Congressman Henry Hyde, said the impetus for the legislation came from a local community activist and York Township Trustee, Moon Khan.
The Month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and Muslims are required to fast the entire month. The Fast of Ramadan has strict regiments that forbid eating or drinking during the daylight hours. In addition smoking and sexual activity are also not allowed. The fast is broken at the end of each day with prayer and a meal called the Iftar. The end of Ramadan is celebrated as Eidul Fitr, which was observed on November 3rd.
The Illinois Senate session began in the final weeks of October, and Roskam immediately introduced the resolution, which, however, takes time to go through several procedures. Senate Resolution 493 has been filed and awaits assignment to a Senate committee.“This is an historic moment for Muslims in Illinois because for the first time the state legislature has undertaken such a broad measure to recognize an important Islamic tradition,” said Khan. “Working together is the key to understanding.”
For more information about the measure, please contact Ryan McLaughlin, Campaign Manager Peter Roskam for Congress (IL-6) at 630- 221-0006 or Moon Khan at 630-889-0588.
The Illinois Senate session began in the final weeks of October, and Roskam immediately introduced the resolution, which, however, takes time to go through several procedures. Senate Resolution 493 has been filed and awaits assignment to a Senate committee.
“This is an historic moment for Muslims in Illinois because for the first time the state legislature has undertaken such a broad measure to recognize an important Islamic tradition,” said Khan.
“Working together is the key to understanding.” For more information about the measure, please contact Ryan McLaughlin, Campaign Manager Peter Roskam for Congress (IL-6) at 630- 221-0006 or Moon Khan at 630-889-0588.
Roskam introduces measure recognizing Muslim holy month
The citizens of Illinois should respect and honor the faith and tradition of Muslims: Peter Roskam
For Immediate Release
Springfield, IL – In deference to the many adherents to the Muslim faith in Illinois, Senator Peter Roskam (R-Wheaton) has introduced a measure to recognize October as the holy month of Ramadan.
“America is a diverse country with many different people from many different cultures and backgrounds,” Roskam said. “We have, as a country, made it a point to set aside various months and weeks throughout the course of the year to celebrate our nation’s diverse heritage. I see no reason why we cannot focus a little attention on Muslims and their culture. After all, this country has and always will be a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.”
Senate Resolution 493 states that, “the citizens of Illinois should respect and honor the faith and tradition of Muslims; therefore by it resolved by the Senate of the Ninety-Fourth General Assembly of the State of Illinois, that we recognize October as the holy month of Ramadan.”
Roskam, a Republican candidate for Congressional 6th District, which is currently represented by Congressman Henry Hyde, said the impetus for the legislation came from a local community activist and York Township Trustee, Moon Khan.
The Month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and Muslims are required to fast the entire month. The Fast of Ramadan has strict regiments that forbid eating or drinking during the daylight hours. In addition smoking and sexual activity are also not allowed. The fast is broken at the end of each day with prayer and a meal called the Iftar. The end of Ramadan is celebrated as Eidul Fitr, which was observed on November 3rd.
The Illinois Senate session began in the final weeks of October, and Roskam immediately introduced the resolution, which, however, takes time to go through several procedures. Senate Resolution 493 has been filed and awaits assignment to a Senate committee.“This is an historic moment for Muslims in Illinois because for the first time the state legislature has undertaken such a broad measure to recognize an important Islamic tradition,” said Khan. “Working together is the key to understanding.”
For more information about the measure, please contact Ryan McLaughlin, Campaign Manager Peter Roskam for Congress (IL-6) at 630- 221-0006 or Moon Khan at 630-889-0588.
The Illinois Senate session began in the final weeks of October, and Roskam immediately introduced the resolution, which, however, takes time to go through several procedures. Senate Resolution 493 has been filed and awaits assignment to a Senate committee.
“This is an historic moment for Muslims in Illinois because for the first time the state legislature has undertaken such a broad measure to recognize an important Islamic tradition,” said Khan.
“Working together is the key to understanding.” For more information about the measure, please contact Ryan McLaughlin, Campaign Manager Peter Roskam for Congress (IL-6) at 630- 221-0006 or Moon Khan at 630-889-0588.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Chicago's Jordanian Consul express condolences following terrorist attacks in Amman
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
CHICAGO -- Jordan's Honorary Consul General in Chicago Ihsan Sweiss today expressed his condolences to the people of Jordan and the Jordanian community in Chicago in the wake of the terrorist attack that took place in Amman, Jordan today, Nov. 9.
"Our hearts and prayers are with the victims and their families at this very critical time," said Sweiss, who has served as the Honorary Consul General for Jordan in Chicago for Jordan since 2000--.
Three suicide bombings struck three hotels in Amman on Wednesday evening claiming the life of tens of innocent civilians and wounding many others. The fatalities continue to mount by the hour.
Sweiss said that he has also been in constant contact with leaders of the American Jordanian community who have also expressed their shock and concern over the terrorism.
In a Royal Court statement His Majesty King Abdullah II condemned the terrorist attack in Amman saying that such acts are perpetrated by a misled and misleading group. The King affirmed that "such terrorist operations will not dissuade Jordan from pursuing its role in fighting terrorism and the criminal terrorist groups and those who are behind them and justify their acts".
"The Criminals who with their cowardly acts have targeted innocent and secure civilians will be brought to justice and Jordan will remain a secure and stable country the King noted"
Mr. Sweiss said there are about 250,000 Americans of Arab Heritage in the Chicago land area. A significant number trace their origins to several cities and towns in Jordan.
"We continue to pray for the well-being of our people and are prepared to provide any assistance that is needed."
END
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
CHICAGO -- Jordan's Honorary Consul General in Chicago Ihsan Sweiss today expressed his condolences to the people of Jordan and the Jordanian community in Chicago in the wake of the terrorist attack that took place in Amman, Jordan today, Nov. 9.
"Our hearts and prayers are with the victims and their families at this very critical time," said Sweiss, who has served as the Honorary Consul General for Jordan in Chicago for Jordan since 2000--.
Three suicide bombings struck three hotels in Amman on Wednesday evening claiming the life of tens of innocent civilians and wounding many others. The fatalities continue to mount by the hour.
Sweiss said that he has also been in constant contact with leaders of the American Jordanian community who have also expressed their shock and concern over the terrorism.
In a Royal Court statement His Majesty King Abdullah II condemned the terrorist attack in Amman saying that such acts are perpetrated by a misled and misleading group. The King affirmed that "such terrorist operations will not dissuade Jordan from pursuing its role in fighting terrorism and the criminal terrorist groups and those who are behind them and justify their acts".
"The Criminals who with their cowardly acts have targeted innocent and secure civilians will be brought to justice and Jordan will remain a secure and stable country the King noted"
Mr. Sweiss said there are about 250,000 Americans of Arab Heritage in the Chicago land area. A significant number trace their origins to several cities and towns in Jordan.
"We continue to pray for the well-being of our people and are prepared to provide any assistance that is needed."
END
Saturday, October 29, 2005
IBDAA Debka Troupe in Chicago November 6
IBDAA!
Palestinian Folkloric Dance Troupe comes to Chicago
Sunday, November 6th, 2005 at 7:00pm
Harris Theater in Millenium Park
205 East Randolph in downtown Chicago
The talented Ibdaa (Arabic for "to create somethingout of nothing") comes to Chicago from Dheishehrefugee camp in the West Bank. This troupe of dancersare undertaking a difficult journey from Palestine to come and tell us their story. They perform modern theatrical choreography interwoven with traditional Palestinian debka dances, poetry and song. Allproceeds from this tour will be given to the IbdaaCultural Center in Dheisheh for their children'sprogramming, women's cooperative and the camp'sproposed first medical center. This national tour is sponsored by the Middle East Children's Alliance and Not In My Name.For tickets call the Harris Theatre Box Office at(312)334-7777 or visit www.harristheaterchicago.org.
General admission tickets for adults are $15-$20, foryouth (ages 15 and under) $12-$15, and Premium DonorPackages are $40-$80.For more information email ibdaachicago@gmail.com, call773-251-6934 or visit www.mecaforpeace.org and www.dheisheh-ibdaa.net.
Palestinian Folkloric Dance Troupe comes to Chicago
Sunday, November 6th, 2005 at 7:00pm
Harris Theater in Millenium Park
205 East Randolph in downtown Chicago
The talented Ibdaa (Arabic for "to create somethingout of nothing") comes to Chicago from Dheishehrefugee camp in the West Bank. This troupe of dancersare undertaking a difficult journey from Palestine to come and tell us their story. They perform modern theatrical choreography interwoven with traditional Palestinian debka dances, poetry and song. Allproceeds from this tour will be given to the IbdaaCultural Center in Dheisheh for their children'sprogramming, women's cooperative and the camp'sproposed first medical center. This national tour is sponsored by the Middle East Children's Alliance and Not In My Name.For tickets call the Harris Theatre Box Office at(312)334-7777 or visit www.harristheaterchicago.org.
General admission tickets for adults are $15-$20, foryouth (ages 15 and under) $12-$15, and Premium DonorPackages are $40-$80.For more information email ibdaachicago@gmail.com, call773-251-6934 or visit www.mecaforpeace.org and www.dheisheh-ibdaa.net.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Palestinian Israeli Day of Peace Rallies
Freedom and Independence Day
Towards A Comprehensive Peace Agreement
Comprehensive Peace Now. From Gaza to West Bank & East Jerusalem
Today Saturday 24 September 2005
A Freedom and Independence popular rally will be held at the Muqata'a in Ramallah at 5pm on Saturday 24 September 2005. And, a Peace Rally will be held in Israel the same night Saturday 24 Sept 2005 outside of the Prime Minister's residence in West Jerusalem (Paris Square) in conjunction with international demonstrations against war and occupation in many cities of the world.
The goal is to celebrate the evacuation of Israeli colonial settlements from the Gaza Strip and to call for an end to Israeli occupation of Jerusalem and the West Bank.
Immediate negotiations should follow for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in the 1967 occupied land with Jerusalem as its capital, and a just solution for Palestinian Refugees according to UN Resolution 194.
The Palestinian people calls for pulling down the Apartheid segregation WALL built illegally inside occupied Palestinian land, for the dismantlement of Israeli colonial settlements in the West Bank, for the reversal of Israeli unilateral measures to isolate Jerusalem and evict its Palestinian inhabitants, and for the rejection of a transitional Palestinian state with temporary borders.
The Palestinian people have an address, and Israel has a partner for peace, and it is the Palestinian National Authority.
Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will address the rally, which will also feature other speeches, poetry, music and dance.
Towards A Comprehensive Peace Agreement
Comprehensive Peace Now. From Gaza to West Bank & East Jerusalem
Today Saturday 24 September 2005
A Freedom and Independence popular rally will be held at the Muqata'a in Ramallah at 5pm on Saturday 24 September 2005. And, a Peace Rally will be held in Israel the same night Saturday 24 Sept 2005 outside of the Prime Minister's residence in West Jerusalem (Paris Square) in conjunction with international demonstrations against war and occupation in many cities of the world.
The goal is to celebrate the evacuation of Israeli colonial settlements from the Gaza Strip and to call for an end to Israeli occupation of Jerusalem and the West Bank.
Immediate negotiations should follow for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in the 1967 occupied land with Jerusalem as its capital, and a just solution for Palestinian Refugees according to UN Resolution 194.
The Palestinian people calls for pulling down the Apartheid segregation WALL built illegally inside occupied Palestinian land, for the dismantlement of Israeli colonial settlements in the West Bank, for the reversal of Israeli unilateral measures to isolate Jerusalem and evict its Palestinian inhabitants, and for the rejection of a transitional Palestinian state with temporary borders.
The Palestinian people have an address, and Israel has a partner for peace, and it is the Palestinian National Authority.
Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will address the rally, which will also feature other speeches, poetry, music and dance.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Detroit Chaldeans honor Mary Rose Oakar and other women of achievement
PRESS RELEASE FROM ACC
The Arab American and Chaldean Celebrate Women of Achievement
September 21, 2005
Detroit, Mich., - On Saturday, September 24th at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, 6 p.m., the Arab American and Chaldean Council (ACC) will host Celebrating Women of Achievement at its 26th Annual Civic and Humanitarian Awards Gala.
The evening's theme is a tribute to all women, honoring their extraordinary leadership and accomplishments. President and CEO of the Chrysler Group Dieter Zetsche is the evenings Keynote Speaker and recipient of the 2005 International Leadership Award. DaimlerChrysler has been identified by ACC as the leading Detroit based corporation in recognizing the pioneering spirit of women and promoting their accomplishments.
The evening's program will be emceed by specialty reporter Paula Tutman of WDIV Channel 4. This year’s 2005 honorees are:- Jane Arraf, Senior Baghdad Correspondent, CNN- Mary Sue Coleman, President, University of Michigan- Helen Daoud, Philanthropist- Irma Elder, President/CEO, Elder Automotive Group- Barbara Farrah, State Representative, State of Michigan- Maya Hammoud, M.D., University of Michigan- Priscilla Khoury, ACC Board Member- Captain Katrina Mathews, Salvation Army- Iman Mohamed, M.D., Medical College of Ohio- Honorable Mary Rose Oakar, President, American-Arab Anti Discrimination Committee (ADC)- Nida Samona, Michigan Liquor Control Commission, State of Michigan
ACC is proud to celebrate as we continue to make a difference in our communities as the leading educational, employment and healthcare human services organization. This year's gala will attract more than 1,500 guests, including leaders representing national and state policy-making, members of the judiciary, leaders of the corporate world and health care industries, and educational institutions and foundations. Last year, ACC hosted The Prince of Jordan His Excellency Prince Hamzah and Princess Noor of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Tickets are still available; please call 248-559-1990 for more information.
ACC is the largest non-profit human service organization to provide services to the Middle Eastern Community in Southeast Michigan. For more information onACC services, please visit us at www.arabacc.org
The Arab American and Chaldean Celebrate Women of Achievement
September 21, 2005
Detroit, Mich., - On Saturday, September 24th at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, 6 p.m., the Arab American and Chaldean Council (ACC) will host Celebrating Women of Achievement at its 26th Annual Civic and Humanitarian Awards Gala.
The evening's theme is a tribute to all women, honoring their extraordinary leadership and accomplishments. President and CEO of the Chrysler Group Dieter Zetsche is the evenings Keynote Speaker and recipient of the 2005 International Leadership Award. DaimlerChrysler has been identified by ACC as the leading Detroit based corporation in recognizing the pioneering spirit of women and promoting their accomplishments.
The evening's program will be emceed by specialty reporter Paula Tutman of WDIV Channel 4. This year’s 2005 honorees are:- Jane Arraf, Senior Baghdad Correspondent, CNN- Mary Sue Coleman, President, University of Michigan- Helen Daoud, Philanthropist- Irma Elder, President/CEO, Elder Automotive Group- Barbara Farrah, State Representative, State of Michigan- Maya Hammoud, M.D., University of Michigan- Priscilla Khoury, ACC Board Member- Captain Katrina Mathews, Salvation Army- Iman Mohamed, M.D., Medical College of Ohio- Honorable Mary Rose Oakar, President, American-Arab Anti Discrimination Committee (ADC)- Nida Samona, Michigan Liquor Control Commission, State of Michigan
ACC is proud to celebrate as we continue to make a difference in our communities as the leading educational, employment and healthcare human services organization. This year's gala will attract more than 1,500 guests, including leaders representing national and state policy-making, members of the judiciary, leaders of the corporate world and health care industries, and educational institutions and foundations. Last year, ACC hosted The Prince of Jordan His Excellency Prince Hamzah and Princess Noor of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Tickets are still available; please call 248-559-1990 for more information.
ACC is the largest non-profit human service organization to provide services to the Middle Eastern Community in Southeast Michigan. For more information onACC services, please visit us at www.arabacc.org
Palestinian political prisoners still important issue
Press release
Sep. 21, 2005
The ongoing tragedy of the Palestinian political prisoners in the Israeli jails
The Department of Arab and International Relations/ P.L.O. warns of the Israeli policy against the Palestinian and Arab prisoners in the Israeli jails. Although all prisoners are confined under sever and harsh conditions, Palestinian detainees from Jerusalem are to suffer from an added burden as they have been placed in isolation - away from the rest of the prisoners. The step is not only a tool to break the solidarity of prisoners , but is also directed towards any possible future negotiations with regard to the release of prisoners as the Israeli authorities are planning to exclude the Jerusalemites from such negotiations.
Since 1967, 650,000 Palestinians have been detained, which means that 20% of the Palestinian population in West Bank and Gaza Strip has been arrested at some point; 8600 are still imprisoned in 28 Israeli jails and detention centers, 116 of whom are women and 288 are underage. 1000 Palestinians are placed under administrative detention and are still held in Israeli prisons although they were not found guilty, 950 of the Palestinian prisoners who suffer from serious health problems are deprived access to proper medical treatment.
The Department of Arab and International Relations appeals to the International community, UN organizations and friends all over the world to interfere immediately to save the lives of 950 Palestinian prisoners who were diagnosed with serious hert and lung diseases, diabetes, immobilization and cancer.
By this brief and quick release, we hope to draw your attention to the crises and to urge you to exert your influence and power towards the release of Palestinian prisoners from the Israeli jails. We also believe that serious pressures are to be directed towards the Israeli occupation authorities in order for such authorities to abide by the International Humanitarian Laws, namely the Geneva Fourth Convention on prisoners.
Palestine Liberation Organization
The Department of Arab and International Relations
Ramallah – Palestine.
Sep. 21, 2005
The ongoing tragedy of the Palestinian political prisoners in the Israeli jails
The Department of Arab and International Relations/ P.L.O. warns of the Israeli policy against the Palestinian and Arab prisoners in the Israeli jails. Although all prisoners are confined under sever and harsh conditions, Palestinian detainees from Jerusalem are to suffer from an added burden as they have been placed in isolation - away from the rest of the prisoners. The step is not only a tool to break the solidarity of prisoners , but is also directed towards any possible future negotiations with regard to the release of prisoners as the Israeli authorities are planning to exclude the Jerusalemites from such negotiations.
Since 1967, 650,000 Palestinians have been detained, which means that 20% of the Palestinian population in West Bank and Gaza Strip has been arrested at some point; 8600 are still imprisoned in 28 Israeli jails and detention centers, 116 of whom are women and 288 are underage. 1000 Palestinians are placed under administrative detention and are still held in Israeli prisons although they were not found guilty, 950 of the Palestinian prisoners who suffer from serious health problems are deprived access to proper medical treatment.
The Department of Arab and International Relations appeals to the International community, UN organizations and friends all over the world to interfere immediately to save the lives of 950 Palestinian prisoners who were diagnosed with serious hert and lung diseases, diabetes, immobilization and cancer.
By this brief and quick release, we hope to draw your attention to the crises and to urge you to exert your influence and power towards the release of Palestinian prisoners from the Israeli jails. We also believe that serious pressures are to be directed towards the Israeli occupation authorities in order for such authorities to abide by the International Humanitarian Laws, namely the Geneva Fourth Convention on prisoners.
Palestine Liberation Organization
The Department of Arab and International Relations
Ramallah – Palestine.
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Christian Palestinians urge moderation and "genuine dialogue" at Bethlehem Conference
Palestinian Lutheran Bishop Challenges Religions to Work for Genuine Dialogue
Meeting in the Holy Land Is a Sign of Solidarity with Other Christians
LWF Council Meeting in Jerusalem/Bethlehem,
31 August - 6 September 2005
PRESS RELEASE N0. 01-2005
JERUSALEM/GENEVA, 31 August 2005 (LWI) Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan of theEvangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) has calledfor a self critical analysis of individual churches and other religions, inorder for dialogue among religions to contribute to peaceful co-existence inthe world.
"Extremists are vocal and can hijack justice. We should not allow them to dothis," Younan told journalists prior to the opening of this year's LWF Council meeting taking place in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, August 31-September 6.
The ELCJHL bishop addressed the media representatives jointly with LWFPresident, Bishop Mark S. Hanson and LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr IshmaelNoko.Around 170 participants are attending the meeting hosted by the ELCJHL underthe theme, "The Church: Called to a Ministry of Reconciliation."
This theme was first proposed for the 2001 meeting after the ELCJHL formally invitedthe LWF Council to hold its annual meeting in the Holy Land. Subsequentchange of venue to other places since was necessary in view of anon-conducive political situation in the region.Younan, also LWF Vice-President for the Asian region, stressed thesignificance of the Lutheran communion for the ELCJHL not just individuallyas an LWF member church but also for the Christian community and fordialogue with other religions, in a region in which Christians are aminority.
"Your coming here strengthens us and is important for[inter-religious] dialogue," he said in reference to the respectivedialogues with Muslims and Jews.
Call for Bridges of Peace Not WallsCommenting on the barrier separating Israel from Palestinian territory inorder protect Israel from Palestinian suicide bombers, the Lutheran bishopsaid this was not a solution to the Israeli Palestinian conflict.
"We wantpeace not walls. Walls divide, peace builds bridges." He described thePalestinian community as a good example of religious co-existence to otherparts of the world saying, "our people Muslims and Christians have always lived side by side.
"The LWF Council host church ELCJHL has six congregations in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Beit Jala, Beit Sahour, Ramallah and Amman the Jordanian capital. It is committed to ecumenical and inter-religious service and dialogue ascritical in helping to promote peace and reconciliation. The Lutheran church, like others churches in the region, faces many challenges especially the emigration of Palestinian Christians due to the harsh restrictions ofthe Israeli occupation.
Hanson described the theme of this year's Council meeting, "The ChurchCalled to a Ministry of Reconciliation," as befitting in view of the event'svenue and also important because the world's focus is so often on the MiddleEast. To stand in solidarity with Palestinian Christians, he noted isparticularly important during this time.
The theme, he said, challenged the LWF governing body at this meeting "tospeak the truth" concerning several issues among them occupation, violenceand the separation wall. "Yes, the wall protects some, but it separatesothers," Hanson said.
He noted that freedom and justice for the Palestinianpeople is dependent on a secure Israel, inasmuch as a secure Israel is alsodependent on these very principles.Affirmation of Roadmap for PeaceIn view of the Council's discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,and particularly the impact of the separation wall on the Palestinianpeople, Noko said the Roadmap peace process remained an important issue forthe LWF. He reiterated the LWF's position on Jerusalem as a city of twopeoples [Israelis and Palestinians] and the three monotheistic religions[Christianity, Islam and Judaism].
These issues will be addressed when theLWF leaders meet during this week with the President of Israel and thePresident of the Palestinian Authority.Noko said the Council will also be discussing the status of the LWF-runAugusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) on the Mount of Olives in East Jerusalem inview of a court case over a tax exemption agreement. The LWF is challengingthe intent to revoke a tax exemption agreement between the hospital and theState of Israel. If this tax exempt status were to be lifted, the AVH wouldbe required to remit some USD 400,000 annually, which would threaten theexistence of the hospital that cares mainly for refugees from Palestinianterritories.
There are around 170 participants in this year's Council meeting, includingrepresentatives from the LWF member churches on the 49-member governingbody. Also attending are officials from LWF partner organizations, invitedguests, stewards, interpreters and translators, and LWF staff. The Councilis the annual governing body meeting between Assemblies held every sixyears. The current Council was appointed at the July 2003 Tenth Assembly inWinnipeg, Canada. It comprises the President, Treasurer and 48 personselected by the Assembly. Other members include advisors, who are ordainedand lay persons representing the different LWF regions.
Pauline Mumia, Editor - EnglishThe Lutheran World FederationOffice for Communication Services150, route de FerneyP. O. Box 2100CH-1211 Geneva 2SWITZERLANDE-mail pmu@lutheranworld.org
Meeting in the Holy Land Is a Sign of Solidarity with Other Christians
LWF Council Meeting in Jerusalem/Bethlehem,
31 August - 6 September 2005
PRESS RELEASE N0. 01-2005
JERUSALEM/GENEVA, 31 August 2005 (LWI) Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan of theEvangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) has calledfor a self critical analysis of individual churches and other religions, inorder for dialogue among religions to contribute to peaceful co-existence inthe world.
"Extremists are vocal and can hijack justice. We should not allow them to dothis," Younan told journalists prior to the opening of this year's LWF Council meeting taking place in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, August 31-September 6.
The ELCJHL bishop addressed the media representatives jointly with LWFPresident, Bishop Mark S. Hanson and LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr IshmaelNoko.Around 170 participants are attending the meeting hosted by the ELCJHL underthe theme, "The Church: Called to a Ministry of Reconciliation."
This theme was first proposed for the 2001 meeting after the ELCJHL formally invitedthe LWF Council to hold its annual meeting in the Holy Land. Subsequentchange of venue to other places since was necessary in view of anon-conducive political situation in the region.Younan, also LWF Vice-President for the Asian region, stressed thesignificance of the Lutheran communion for the ELCJHL not just individuallyas an LWF member church but also for the Christian community and fordialogue with other religions, in a region in which Christians are aminority.
"Your coming here strengthens us and is important for[inter-religious] dialogue," he said in reference to the respectivedialogues with Muslims and Jews.
Call for Bridges of Peace Not WallsCommenting on the barrier separating Israel from Palestinian territory inorder protect Israel from Palestinian suicide bombers, the Lutheran bishopsaid this was not a solution to the Israeli Palestinian conflict.
"We wantpeace not walls. Walls divide, peace builds bridges." He described thePalestinian community as a good example of religious co-existence to otherparts of the world saying, "our people Muslims and Christians have always lived side by side.
"The LWF Council host church ELCJHL has six congregations in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Beit Jala, Beit Sahour, Ramallah and Amman the Jordanian capital. It is committed to ecumenical and inter-religious service and dialogue ascritical in helping to promote peace and reconciliation. The Lutheran church, like others churches in the region, faces many challenges especially the emigration of Palestinian Christians due to the harsh restrictions ofthe Israeli occupation.
Hanson described the theme of this year's Council meeting, "The ChurchCalled to a Ministry of Reconciliation," as befitting in view of the event'svenue and also important because the world's focus is so often on the MiddleEast. To stand in solidarity with Palestinian Christians, he noted isparticularly important during this time.
The theme, he said, challenged the LWF governing body at this meeting "tospeak the truth" concerning several issues among them occupation, violenceand the separation wall. "Yes, the wall protects some, but it separatesothers," Hanson said.
He noted that freedom and justice for the Palestinianpeople is dependent on a secure Israel, inasmuch as a secure Israel is alsodependent on these very principles.Affirmation of Roadmap for PeaceIn view of the Council's discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,and particularly the impact of the separation wall on the Palestinianpeople, Noko said the Roadmap peace process remained an important issue forthe LWF. He reiterated the LWF's position on Jerusalem as a city of twopeoples [Israelis and Palestinians] and the three monotheistic religions[Christianity, Islam and Judaism].
These issues will be addressed when theLWF leaders meet during this week with the President of Israel and thePresident of the Palestinian Authority.Noko said the Council will also be discussing the status of the LWF-runAugusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) on the Mount of Olives in East Jerusalem inview of a court case over a tax exemption agreement. The LWF is challengingthe intent to revoke a tax exemption agreement between the hospital and theState of Israel. If this tax exempt status were to be lifted, the AVH wouldbe required to remit some USD 400,000 annually, which would threaten theexistence of the hospital that cares mainly for refugees from Palestinianterritories.
There are around 170 participants in this year's Council meeting, includingrepresentatives from the LWF member churches on the 49-member governingbody. Also attending are officials from LWF partner organizations, invitedguests, stewards, interpreters and translators, and LWF staff. The Councilis the annual governing body meeting between Assemblies held every sixyears. The current Council was appointed at the July 2003 Tenth Assembly inWinnipeg, Canada. It comprises the President, Treasurer and 48 personselected by the Assembly. Other members include advisors, who are ordainedand lay persons representing the different LWF regions.
Pauline Mumia, Editor - EnglishThe Lutheran World FederationOffice for Communication Services150, route de FerneyP. O. Box 2100CH-1211 Geneva 2SWITZERLANDE-mail pmu@lutheranworld.org
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