Common Ground News Service Original Features

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Inside this edition (Articles listed in full below)

1) Lebanon, a lesson in conflict management? by Abbas Barzegar

Abbas Barzegar, a Ph.D. candidate in the history of religions at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, asks whether there is more to the Lebanese example than "a turf war between rival gangs or a proxy war between Washington and Tehran". Despite its precarious situation, or perhaps because of it, he explains how Lebanon's brand of "prudent politics" provides some lessons about conflict management "the non-violent, democratic way".
(Source: Common Ground News Service, 7 August 2007)

2) ~Youth Views~ Dual nationality: a blessing or a curse? by Hanane El Hadi and Menna Taher

Menna Taher, a journalism student at the American University in Cairo, and Hanane El Hadi, a graduate student in International Studies and Diplomacy at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco, consider the shared challenges and opportunities for "dual nationals" who have lived in both Europe and the Muslim world.
(Source: Common Ground News Service (CGNews), 7 August 2007)

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Lebanon, a lesson in conflict management?
By Abbas Barzegar
Atlanta, Georgia - With a population of four million divided amongst eighteen religious sects, it is surprising that the Lebanese political system has managed to survive this long. Now, this already burdened, fractious society heads into what promises to be a tumultuous presidential election. But Lebanon's struggles should be understood as more than simply a turf war between rival gangs or a proxy war between Washington and Tehran. Rather its problems and prospects represent a crystallised microcosm of the range of tensions and issues that face the Middle East and the West. The most significant feature of the Lebanese political field, and its most dangerous vulnerability, is the glaring lack of a central authority capable of enforcing the rule of law. With the Syrian band-aid that filled this vacuum now gone, many wonder if Lebanon's famed recovery from the civil war was anything more than transitory.

However, the fact that there has not been an outbreak in internal violence amongst the country's political and sectarian factions — despite the escalation in tensions following former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri's unresolved assassination and the Israeli aggression last summer — should be testament that Lebanese society is prepared to face extraordinary political challenges without succumbing to the temptation of violence. Arguably it is this dimension of the Lebanese experience that has created a unique environment of pragmatism which many others would do well to observe. For example, this summer's outbreak of violence at the Nahr al-Bared refugee camp has been greeted by many hasty pundits as a sign that the country is headed toward another civil war, but for those more familiar with situation, the problem in Tripoli has been a case of common ground between the Sinora government and the opposition movement headed by Hizbullah.

Instead of Hizbullah leaning towards a pan-Islamic agenda by supporting fighters in the camp, it has unequivocally condemned Fatah al-Islam and supported the Lebanese government's efforts to secure its authority as the only legitimate policing entity in the country. Furthermore, given Hizbullah's pragmatic approach to things, few in Lebanon fear the Shi'a party is trying to implement an Islamic state in Lebanon. It may be that Hizbullah's manoeuvring over the past year is simply part of a clever political plan at a time when its popularity remains high but its role in the government is uncertain.

However, such criticism overlooks the more important fact that Lebanon's vulnerability is precisely what gives rise to this unique system of prudent politics and restraint that may offer a model of conflict management for the rest of the Middle East. Such prudence and restraint, if seized upon correctly, can bear tremendous long term fruits. For example, since the Israeli attack on Lebanon last year, the rubble of Dahiyeh (a Shi'ite neighbourhood in Beirut) has been virtually cleared, making bombed out building lots look like construction sites. Hizbullah has not rebuilt many of those homes however, not because it cannot, but because the central government has not issued building permits to allow it to do so. What is striking is that Hizbullah is actually recognising the government's authority in this matter. It would be quite easy with Iranian financing to rebuild a few dozen apartment buildings in a year's time and bypass the Lebanese central government. Hizbullah's leadership, regardless of one has to say about its ideology, is succumbing to the fundamental principle of democracy - political compromise over the use of force. This sense of prudent politics can also be seen on the side of the Sinora-Harriri government.

The opposition protest camp, which started in January and strangled the parliamentary offices, has now become a virtual ghost town with only a few dozen individuals monitoring the grounds at any given moment. Lodged in the heart of downtown Beirut, it would appear to be quite simple for the Sinora government to order a few bulldozers to destroy the empty tents and arrest the few Hizbullah guards on duty. Such a scenario is unlikely to happen however because it would guarantee future escalation and spiral society into internecine violence. Being on the brink of chaos changes many political equations. In neighbouring Palestine one wishes that Hamas and Fatah could have learned a central point in conflict management from the Lebanese example: just because a short-term gain is possible does not necessarily mean that one should seize it.

It is ironic that Lebanon, a country torn by civil war, external interference and foreign invasion, and home to a group on the US' list of terrorists, is positioned to be the exemplar of democracy for the Arab world while Egypt, second only to Israel in receipt of U.S. foreign aid and whose opposition is made up largely of the politically pragmatic Muslim Brotherhood, resorts to water hoses and constitutional revision as a means to deal with free demonstrations and opposition parties.

Meanwhile, other US allies in the region — future recipients of a $20 billion military aid package — remain monarchies. The upcoming months undoubtedly will be trying for Lebanese society, but given the country's track record over the last few years, in the face of overwhelming odds, one should not expect that Lebanese political leaders will cower at the challenge. The by-elections on August 5th, which were host to an enormous amount of tension, went more smoothly than expected and without violence—another indication that things are not inevitably going downhill in Lebanon. Instead, it may be that interested onlookers learn something about conflict management the non-violent, democratic way.

*Abbas Barzegar is a Ph.D. candidate in the history of religions at Emory University in Atlanta where he studies early Islamic political history and the formation of Muslim sectarianism. This article is distributed by the Common Ground News Service (CGNews) and can be accessed at http://www.commongroundnews.org/.
Source: Common Ground News Service (CGNews), 7 August 2007, http://www.commongroundnews.org/
Copyright permission has been obtained for publication.

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~Youth Views~
Dual nationality: a blessing or a curse?
By Hanane El Hadi and Menna Taher
Ifrane/Cairo - In an increasingly globalised world, people are emigrating from one country to another for a variety of reasons, such as the pursuit of specific education or job opportunities, new experiences, or even to escape war-torn situations. There has been a steady movement of Muslims from the Middle East and North Africa to Europe, and conversely, there is also a significant number of Europeans who opt to live in Middle East.

Faced with the diverse and sometimes competing identities in their new environments, these "dual nationals" share unique challenges and opportunities in their new home countries.After World War II, Europe conscientiously placed increased importance on individual religious freedom, making its countries an attractive destination for Middle Eastern and North African Muslim immigrants.

In recent years, however, there have been increased tensions between immigrants and nationals and restrictive laws, such as the educational system's ban of visible religious symbols on one's person in France, have appeared.France and the UK are among the top two destinations for Arab immigrants; yet, they differ from each other in their integration policies. The French model is largely based on the principle of assimilation while the British model advocates multiculturalism.

When immigrants from a North African background in France were asked about belonging to French society many gave the same answer, "Even if we have French citizenship, we are still regarded as immigrants; French society wants us to give up our culture, which defines our identity, in order to fit the French model". Despite this sentiment, however, some North African Muslims in France, such as new Justice Minister, Rachida Dati, have found a way to contribute fully in French society. She both serves as an example and acts as a liaison between those who feel pressure to give up their identity through assimilation and the French government. The experience in the UK is slightly different.

One example can be found in the responses of those from an Indian background living on the other side of the English Channel who, when questioned, tended to say, "We are British and Indian at the same time." The space in which both identities can be embraced at the same time allows dual nationals to benefit from the best of both worlds, and to offer the best of themselves to their local societies. Dual nationals living in the Arab world also experience their identity in different ways and face their share of challenges.Ahmed Rashed is a student at the American University of Cairo who has lived his whole life in Paris and Amsterdam and only moved to Egypt last year. He has found it difficult understanding some of the physical manifestations of culture, such as different greeting etiquette.

"In France it is ok for a man to kiss a girl on the cheek while greeting her; however, he would greet a guy with a handshake. Here it is the other way round," he explained.

Yet despite such frustrations felt by newcomers, many also report experiencing the gratification that cultural fusion can offer. Mariam Ghorbannejad, a 25-year old female who is half British and half Iranian, is one such individual. She is currently living in Egypt to learn Arabic and working as an editor for the Daily Star. Ghorbannejad has had little difficulty adapting to the culture. Having travelled much she has seen many different cultures and did not experience much "culture shock" when moving to Egypt.

"The English are more reserved and they might consider the Egyptian attitude aggressive, but I have no problem with it," she said. She appears to be at peace with the differences between Cairo and London, saying: "Here it is never quiet, you have salespeople selling their products, and bakers shouting 'bread' all the time. And you can't walk much in the streets because the pavement is uneven; but it's easier to get a taxi here than in London."

Although many individuals who have called more than one part of the world "home" find themselves faced with identity crises at one point or another, not knowing exactly where they belong, these stories also demonstrate the unique advantages to dual nationality: the ability to feel comfortable – to belong – in societies where those who don't share this dual identity would struggle to feel at home, and the opportunity to share their unique perspective with others.

* Menna Taher is a sophomore student at the American University in Cairo majoring in journalism. Hanane El Hadi is currently fulfilling her MA degree in International Studies and Diplomacy at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco. They co-wrote this article as part of the Soliya Connect Program West-Muslim World intercultural dialogue program.

This article is distributed by the Common Ground News Service (CGNews) and can be accessed at http://www.commongroundnews.org/.

Source: Common Ground News Service (CGNews), 7 August 2007, http://www.commongroundnews.org/

Copyright permission has been obtained for publication.

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ADC Condemns Tom Tancredo's continued racist hatred

ADC Press Release:
ADC Condemns Comments from Congressman Tancredo

Washington, DC | August 3, 2007 | www.adc.org | The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is shocked and appalled by recent comments made by Republican presidential candidate Congressman Tom Tancredo of Colorado. While speaking to a group of voters in Iowa, Tancredo said "If it is up to me, we are going to explain that an attack on this homeland…would be followed by an attack on the holy sites in Mecca and Medina; that is the only thing I can think of that might deter somebody from doing what they would otherwise do. If I am wrong, fine, tell me, and I would be happy to do something else. But you had better find a deterrent, or you will find an attack."

Unfortunately, this is not the first time that Congressman Tancredo has made such ignorant and hate-filled remarks. On a radio show in 2005, Tancredo suggested dropping nuclear bombs on the holy city of Mecca in retaliation for any terrorist attack directed against the homeland of the United States.

Tancredo's comments serve only to encourage hatred towards Muslims of all ethnic backgrounds. His views are not shared by the US government; Deputy Spokesman Tom Casey of the State Department called Tancredo's recent comments "reprehensible" and "absolutely crazy".

ADC asks our members to contact Congressman Tancredo concerning his remarks.

Washington Office:
1131 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-0606
Phone: (202) 225-7882
Fax: (202) 226-4623
Email: http://tancredo.house.gov/contact_tom.html
Website: http://tancredo.house.gov/

Main District Office:
6099 South Quebec St., Ste. 200
Centennial, CO 80111
Phone: (720) 283-9772
Fax: (720) 283-9776

http://capwiz.com/adc/issues/alert/?alertid=10156126

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NOTE TO EDITORS: The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), which is non sectarian and non partisan, is the largest Arab-American civil rights organization in the United States. It was founded in 1980, by former Senator James Abourezk to combat racial stereotyping and to protect the civil rights of people of Arab descent in the United States. ADC has 38 chapters nationwide, including chapters in every major city in the country, and members in all 50 states.

______________________________________________________________
American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee | www.adc.org

Israeli settlers occupy Palestinians lands in Bil'in

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Last night, hundreds of Israeli settlers occupied buildings illegally erected on land belonging to the Palestinian village of Bil'in, despite an order from the Israeli Supreme Court forbidding them to do so. The takeover came amidst rumors relating to the imminent bankruptcy of real estate giant Heftsiba.

Earlier today, Mohammad Khatib, a member of Bil'in's popular committee against the wall and settlements stated that;

"The settlers are above the law. The organized takeover of the Matityahu Mizrah settlement is in defiance of the Supreme Court's ban, it is a continuation of the Modi'in Elite local council's policy to work illegally and create facts on the ground. This time Modi'in Elite's local council are taking advantage of Heftsiba's rumored bankruptcy to commit yet another crime intended to pressure the Israeli Supreme Court."

In January 2006, the Israeli Supreme Court issued a temporary order in one appeal case (143/06), freezing the building and population of the Matityahu East settlement after the illegal building of 42 residential buildings. Twenty of the buildings were built with no permit and 22 others with permits illegally issued by the Modiin Elite council.

Khatib reports that Yaacov Gutterman, head of the Modi'in Elite local council and the man who, according to the civil administration, is responsible for "large scale illegal building" in the Matityahu East settlement is on site distributing food to the invading settlers.

According to a report in today's Ha'aretz Metityahu Mizrah is the largest West Bank settlement project that is illegal under Israeli law.

The route of the wall in Bil'in is designed not only to protect Matityahu Mizrah but according to a master plan allowing for future expansion. For more details see B'tselem Report "Under the Guise of Security: Routing the Separation Barrier to Enable Israeli Settlement Expansion in the West Bank".

For more information call Mohammad Khatib 0545-573285 or Jonathan Polak 054-6327736

The International Solidarity Movement (ISM) is a Palestinian-led non-violent resistance movement committed to ending Israel's illegal occupation of Palestinian land. We call for full compliance with all relevant UN resolutions and international law.

For specific media inquires such as interview requests, photo usage, etc. please email the ISM Media Office at media@palsolidarity.org

Israeli-Palestinian Combatants for Peace event Aug. 14-15, Chicago

Brit Tzedek v’Shalom, the Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace invites you to a luncheon and discussion

With Israeli Yonatan Gur and Palestinian Riyad al Halees of Combatants for Peace

Hosted by Charles E. Dobrusin and moderated by Aliza Becker, Brit Tzedek v’Shalom

Tuesday, August 14 at 12 noon

10 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1800 (between Madison & Monroe 1/2 block west of Wacker)
Chicago, IL 60606
Please RSVP to aliza@btvshalom.org or (312) 341-1205 by Sunday, August 13 and indicate if you would like a vegetarian meal. All food will be Kosher. Site is accessible.

Bios

Yonatan Gur was born in 1979 on a kibbutz in the western Galilee. He is presently a third year history student at Tel Aviv University and works as a reporter for the "Yedioth Aharonot" newspaper and as a group moderator in non-formal education projects. During primary and high school, he was active as a group leader in youth movements and as a member of the "Peace Now" youth organization. After high school and a year of volunteer social service he was drafted by the Israel Defense Forces, eventually serving as a platoon commander in the armored corps. Yonatan joined "Combatants for Peace" in February 2006, and since then has been an active member of this movement.

Riyad al Halees was born in 1979 in Hebron, south of Jerusalem. He holds a BA degree in sociology from Bir Zeit University in Ramallah, where he now lives. Riyad was arrested several times and served time in Israeli prisons for participation in actions against the Israeli occupation. In 2003 Riyad was severely injured from shots fired by Israeli soldiers. His brother was killed in the incident. Following that event Riyad gradually realized that violence only leads to more violence and that a non-violent struggle is the only way to end the occupation and achieve peace. It was for the promotions of these ideas that Riyad joined CFP and has become one of its most prominent members

About Combatants for Peace

We are a group of Israeli and Palestinian individuals who were actively involved in the cycle of violence in our area. The Israelis served as combat soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces and the Palestinians were involved in acts of violence in the name of Palestinian liberation. We all used weapons against one another, and looked at each other only through weapon sights; however today we cooperate and commit ourselves to the following:

* We no longer believe that the conflict can be resolved through violence.
* We believe that the blood shed will not end unless we act together to terminate the occupation and stop all forms of violence.
* We call for the establishment of a Palestinian State, alongside the State of Israel. The two states can exist in peace and security beside each other.
* We will use only non-violent means to achieve our goals and call for both societies to end violence.

Aliza Becker, Deputy Director
Brit Tzedek v'Shalom, the Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace
11 E. Adams, Suite 707
Chicago, IL 60603

Ph: (312) 341-1205
Fax: (312) 341-1206
E-mail: Aliza@btvshalom.org
Web: www.btvshalom.org

Defendent who defeats terrorism charges awaits sentencing in suburban Chicago kangaroo court

Co-defendent in phony "terrorism" charge, Dr. Abdul-Haleem Ashqar, cleared along with Mohammed Salah, but awaits sentencing on trumped up phony charges of "civil contempt" and "obstruction of justice" for failing to "testify" when demanded by criminal US Attorney John Ashcroft against other alleged Palestinian targets.

Here's a story from the Muslim Link Newspaper in Detroit:

Ashqar Awaits Community Support
By Farkhunda Ali
Muslim Link Staff Writer

The Free Dr. Ashqar Committee (FDAC), MAS Freedom Foundation, and SISTERS Committee launched a letter writing campaign in support of Dr. Abdul-Haleem Ashqar late May 2007.

The majority of the letters have been submitted from members of Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center in Falls Church, Virginia. A small number of supporters from Dar-us-Salaam in College Park, Maryland have already begun to submit letters as well.

The next step is to ask other Masajid in the DC Area to participate in the campaign. Ashqar is depending on these letters of support to prove to the judge in his case that the Muslim community stands behind him. On February 1st, the jury found Ashqar “not guilty” of all the major charges and convicted him of lesser charges of “civil contempt” and “obstruction of justice” for not testifying against other Palestinian activists.

His sentencing is scheduled for September 7th in Chicago. He could possibly face a minimum of 18-month sentence if jailed for civil contempt. In the worst-case scenario, Ashqar faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.The defense plans to appeal the verdict on the lesser charges and will fight this case diligently until Ashqar’s family rests at home peacefully.

Ashqar’s defense team is urgently requesting additional letters of support in order to present a positive testimony on behalf of its client. So far, Ashqar’s legal counsel stated they have received 300 letters of support.

The objective of the mass letter writing campaign is to gather 700 support letters before the sentence to present to the Honorable Judge Amy St. Eve asking her to show mercy when deciding on a sentence.

The FDAC did not return any phone calls regarding the letter writing campaign. Ashqar told the Muslim Link he is pleading the community to come forth in large numbers to get as many support letters as possible.

According to Ashqar’s legal counsel, the judge has agreed to read all letters and take them into consideration when deciding on the sentence terms.

After a lengthy jury deliberation in Chicago, Ashqar and his co-defendant Muhammad Salah were acquitted of the most serious charges in February by a federal jury of the racketeering conspiracy charges. This acquittal came at the end of four months trial that took place in Chicago, IL. The previous verdict safeguarded both defendants from possibly facing a maximum life prison terms for terrorism related conspiracy charges. Their victory proved that Americans still value their core Constitutional principles. Judge St. Eve decided not to incriminate Ashqar and Salah for exercising their first amendment rights of freedom of speech.On July 11, 2007, the co-defendant Salah was sentenced to 21-months in federal prison for lying under oath in a civil lawsuit. Salah, 54, was also fined $25,000 and ordered 100 hours of community service.

Ashqar’s defense team did not make any comments regarding the pending negotiations with the probation officer on sentencing guidelines.

“The most challenging thing is counting all of the wonderful letters that we have received from the Muslim community,” said Attorney Bill Moffit, defense attorney of Ashqar.

All supporters are instructed to write their name, address, and phone number. Please include your professional and education background and city of residence. The letter should include information on how one knows Ashqar and the period of time of acquaintance.

The letter should answer the following questions: What is your impression of the type of person he is? Do you think of him as an honest human being? Why?

The letter can be concluded by stating some personal thoughts on the trial, Ashqar and his life. All writers are advised to be polite in their requests to reconsider Ashqar’s verdict or to have clemency in sentencing.

The letters will go straight to Honorable Judge Amy St. Eve. The letters can be mailed to: Mr. WILLIAM B. MOFFITT ESQ. , 11582 GREENWICH POINT ROAD, RESTON, VA 20194. For more information, Email Ashqar@aol.com or visit http://www.free-ashqar.org/.

Press conference on immigration reform planned

For Immediate Release
Thursday, July 26, 2007

MEDIA ADVISORY Contact: Leonie Campbell (202) 296-2300 x135; (202) 492-4591 (Cell)lcampbell@advancingequality.org

TELEPHONIC BRIEFINGImmigrant Rights Leaders to Discuss Increased Anti-Immigrant Measures in Congress and the Need for Community Action

WHAT: On the record briefing with Q & A

WHEN: Monday, July 30, 2007 ~ 3:00 p.m. (EDT) 12:00 p.m. (PST)

HOW: To register and obtain the call-in number, please contact Leonie Campbell at (202) 296-2300 x135 or lcampbell@advancingequality.org.

WHO: Karen K. Narasaki, President and Executive Director, Asian American Justice Center
Josh Bernstein, Federal Policy Director, National Immigration Law Center
Deepa Iyer, Executive Director, South Asian American Leaders of Tomorrow
Eun Sook Lee, Executive Director, National Korean American Service and Education Consortium
Kerri Sherlock Talbot, Director of Policy and Planning, Rights Working Group

Background: Last week 57 senators voted for Senator John Ensign’s (R-NV) amendment to the unrelated education bill, H.R. 2669, which would have cut off the Social Security benefits of naturalized citizens who could not prove they were work-authorized for every quarter they contributed to the system. The failed amendment, which required 60 votes for passage, is part of a disturbing trend of Senators and Representatives attempting to restrict the rights of even long time legal permanent residents. Despite the demise of the comprehensive immigration reform bill in the Senate, Congress has not dropped the issue of immigration. Unfortunately, many politicians are seeking to push anti-immigrant measures as immigration reform. Speakers will discuss attempts to further restrict access to food stamps for legal permanent residents and naturalized citizens and appropriations bills that make the extremely flawed Basic Pilot immigration verification system mandatory for any company receiving funds under the Act.

They will provide information on the impact of anti-immigrant measures on the Asian American community and offer ways for community members to help stop the alarming anti-immigrant trend. In addition, the panel of immigrant rights leaders will talk about the many attempts to enlist state and local police to enforce federal civil immigration laws at the expense of community policing.

The Asian American Justice Center (http://www.advancingequality.org/) is a national organization dedicated to defending and advancing the civil and human rights of Asian Americans. It works closely with three affiliates – the Asian American Institute in Chicago (http://www.aaichicago.org/), the Asian Law Caucus (http://www.asianlawcaucus.org/) in San Francisco, and the Asian Pacific American Legal Center (http://www.apalc.org/) in Los Angeles – and nearly 100 community partners in 49 cities, 23 states and Washington, D.C.

Arab American Media Wire Service Celebrates 3 years

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2007
Contact: Ray Hanania
rayhanania@comcast.net

Arab American Media Wire Service celebrates 3rd Anniversary

(Chicago, IL., USA/July 26, 2007) -- The nation's only Arab American news wire service, Arab American Media Wire, celebrated its third year of service this month, distributing more than 500 press releases and feature/news stories to mainstream American news media and to the Arab American Ethnic media.

"We started the AAMS Wire in July 2004 mainly because there was no source where one could come to find the latest news releases on Arab American or Middle East issues generated by Arab American groups," said AAMS founder, veteran journalist Ray Hanania.

"Every week, more and more editors and reporters at newspapers around the country and around the world, come here to scan the latest postings for possible story leads and content for their newspapers."

The service is offered free of charge. Any content found ont he AAMS wire can be republished and referenced with proper attribution to the original sources of the news and to the AAMS Wire service.

"This is an important networking tool that is crucial to achieving balanced and comprehensive news media coverage of the Arab American community," said Hanania, who is a board member of the National Arab American Journalists Association and a member of the diversity committee of the Society of Professional Journalists, and Media Watch committee of the Asian American Journalists Association.

"Press releases are a critical aspect of balanced reporting."

Individuals wishing to submit press releases, notices or feature stories can email them to

rayhanania@comcast.net

The preferred format is to post the releases in the body of the email rather than as an attachment. Unfortunately, PDF's cannot be posted to the site.

# # #

Palestine Football Team in UK

PALESTINE: Something to Cheer About!!!

PALESTINE NATIONAL YOUTH (under 21) TEAM IN THE UK
August 21st to September the 10th 2007

www.palestinefootball.myzen.co.uk/

Download the leaflet of the events: http://www.palestinecampaign.org/events.asp?d=y&id=2287

Cheshire County at the Vauxhall Motors Stadium, Ellesmere Port 26/08/07, 11am
Chester City FC Youth at the Airbus Stadium, Broughton, Chester, 30/08/07 5.30pm
Tranmere Rovers FC, Raby Training Ground, Wirral, 04/09/07 3pm
Blackburn Rovers FC, Ewood Park, 08/09/07 at 3pm

Tickets: http://www.rovers.co.uk/

For further information on the tour see http://www.palestinefootball.myzen.co.uk/

SIRAJ Holy Studies Program completes first session, produces online videos

The first month of the Palestinian Summer Celebration for this year already finished successfully and we just started our second month. Participants traveled from Chile, USA, England, Scotland and Switzerland.

The 2007 participants have produced three videos so far:

1- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0PHXE1-TYg

2- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1MMve_qHK0 (via Dolorossa, religious)

3- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ5jzZHqvnY

The last video is the most updated one and all the videos expresses the personal experiences for the participants. More over, our participants have written about their time in Palestine and you can find more information at: http://www.sirajcenter.org/s-blogs.htmS

iraj Center has hosted different people this summer who traveled to Palestine either to make a film, write a story, give lectures and talks, or delegations who visit Palestine either to visit Holy Sites and meet with locals and understand the political situation or fact finding missions and work groups.

For more information, please visit http://www.sirajcenter.org/ Salaam,
George S. Rishmawi
Coordinator,Siraj, Center For Holy Land Studies
Schools Street, Beit SahourPalestine

PR: Support Ta'ayush Human Rights effort, Chicago August 4

Ta’ayush in Peril: Defending Human Rights in Palestine

A Ta’ayush Fundraiser with Israeli Human Rights Attorney Gaby Lasky
Saturday, August 4, 9:30 am to 11:30 am.
Grace Place
637 S. Dearborn
ChicagoTa’ayush (Arabic for “life in common”) is a grassroots organization of Arabs and Jews working to break down the walls of racism and segregation by constructing a true Arab-Jewish partnership. For years, Ta’ayush has been working on behalf of the Palestinian inhabitants of the South Hebron Hills in the West Bank, who are under threat of being expelled from their ancestral hills.

In recent weeks the threat has become imminent, and Ta’ayush has put out an international call to ask for help. Specifically, Ta’ayush – an all volunteer organization with no resources of its own – is trying to raise $10,000 to help defray the lawyers’ costs as they work to defend the rights of these people to keep their homes.Please join us this morning for a discussion with Gaby Lasky, who works with Ta’ayush on this and other issues. A human rights attorney, Lasky represents Israelis, internationals and Palestinians who engage in non-violent resistance to the Israeli occupation. Formerly secretary general of the Israeli Peace Now, she is currently the legal advisor to the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel. She also represents a number of women conscientious objectors refusing to serve in the Israeli army while the occupation continues.

Lasky will share details of the urgent situation facing Palestinians, not only in the South Hebron hills, but also in Jerusalem, where they are facing severe challenges to continued residency.A light breakfast will be served. There is no cost to attend the event. We will be soliciting voluntary donations for Ta’ayush’s legal fund.

You may also contribute directly:

Send checks made out to Ta’ayush toTali SchaeferPO Box 250778New York, NY 10025Co-sponsored by Jewish Voice for Peace - Chicago.RSVP greatly appreciated! Lynn Pollack at 312-427-2533 or e-mail lpollack@afsc.org

PBS Features report on Women's TV Talk Show "Kalam Nawaem" that challenges Middle East stereotypes July 31, PBS

WIDE ANGLE PRESENTS AN EXCLUSIVE REPORT ON THE GROUND-BREAKING ALL-FEMALE TALK SHOW THAT IS SHAKING UP THE MIDDLE EAST

Dishing Democracy Premieres Tuesday, July 31 At 9 P.M. As WIDE ANGLE Continues Its Sixth Season On PBS

While the United States has been striving to promote democracy in the Arab world, a home-grown revolution is already taking place. Every Sunday night in living rooms throughout the Middle East, tens of millions of viewers are tuning in to a fearless all-female talk show whose four hosts discuss controversial subjects, shatter stereotypes and provoke debate. Originally inspired by ABC’s hit The View, Kalam Nawaem (Sweet Talk) is taped in studios over the Middle East and broadcast each week from Dubai. Five years after its premiere, the show is a top-rated program on MBC, one of the first privately owned Arab satellite television channels.

With exclusive access to both the private and the professional lives of Kalam Nawaem’s hosts and producers, WIDE ANGLE: Dishing Democracy provides a nuanced portrait of Arab women harnessing the power of transnational satellite television to boldly and effectively push social reform. Dishing Democracy premieres Tuesday, July 31 at 9 p.m. (ET) on PBS (check local listings).

The show is hosted by four women of different ages, nationalities and points of view who have become household names and role models across the Muslim world. Muna AbuSulayman, the very first Saudi woman to appear on Arab satellite television; Farah Bseiso, a Palestinian actress; Fawzia Salama, an Egyptian newspaper columnist; and Rania Barghout, a liberal Lebanese, meet in the production studio to discuss – and disagree on – a wide range of news, entertainment and social issues with invited guests. WIDE ANGLE’s cameras capture censorship discussions in editorial meetings, tension and camaraderie in the dressing room, and viewer reaction on the Arab street.

All four hosts are working mothers with strong family values, but when it comes to dishing it out, no subject matter is taboo. They were among the first in the Arab media to openly discuss homosexuality, and have been repeatedly outspoken on sensitive issues like polygamy, masturbation, wife battering, and equality between the sexes. The show is not without its enemies, as Rania Barghout explains: “The day before yesterday we had a letter, saying …we’re terrible women. We are corrupting Arab societies. We are the devil!”

Before the advent of satellite dishes, most Arab viewers depended on terrestrial state television, which meant few channels and some form of government oversight of everything that went to air. Dishing Democracy explores how Muslim women are utilizing satellite television to modernize Islam in living rooms throughout the Arab world.

The director, Amsterdam-based Bregtje van der Haak, has made numerous documentaries on social, political and cultural topics around the world, including Saudi Solutions and Femmes Fatales about the lives of working women in Saudi Arabia and Morocco.

For additional information and photography, visit thirteen.org/pressroom/wideangle or pbs.org/pressroom.

Major funding for WIDE ANGLE is provided by PBS, The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, Bernard and Irene Schwartz, Mutual of America Life Insurance Company, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Foundation, The Jacob Burns Foundation, Ford Foundation, Josh and Judy Weston, Rosalind P. Walter, and The Shelley & Donald Rubin Foundation.
WIDE ANGLE is a production of Thirteen/WNET New York for PBS. Stephen Segaller is executive producer. Pamela Hogan is series producer. Andy Halper is senior producer.
..........…

Thirteen/WNET New York is one of the key program providers for public television, bringing such acclaimed series as Nature, Great Performances, American Masters, Charlie Rose, Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly, Wide Angle, Secrets of the Dead, NOW With David Brancaccio, and Cyberchase – as well as the work of Bill Moyers – to audiences nationwide. As the flagship public broadcaster in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut metro area, Thirteen reaches millions of viewers each week, airing the best of American public television along with its own local productions such as The Ethnic Heritage Specials, The Thirteen Walking Tours, New York Voices, and Reel New York. Thirteen extends the impact of its television productions through educational and community outreach projects – including the Celebration of Teaching and Learning – as well as Web sites and other digital media platforms. More information can be found at: www.thirteen.org.

end

Canadian Arab Author releases first book

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chick-lit makes its way to Cuba

First-time Arab-Canadian author explores more than mojitos, cigars and salsa dancing

Toronto, ON – July 04, 2007 -- Young women who struggle to balance the competing pressures of careers, love, friends, family values and individuality will identify with Nadine Dajani's brilliantly-written chick-lit novel with ethnic flare, Fashionably Late. Going beyond the traditional "women's fiction lite" fare, the novel shakes up the fashion-plus-best-friends-plus-boys formula with shadows of social criticism, a fresh look at bastion-of-communism-turned-tourist-hotspot Cuba, and perhaps most surprisingly for a "chick lit" novel, the Lebanese civil war. "Anyone who is curious about the interplay between different cultures will get something from this book," said author Nadine Dajani in a recent interview.

Fashionably Late is far from forgettable fluff for fashionistas. This smart, sassy and inspirational story illustrates the profound evolution of Montreal-based Muslim Ali Hallaby, a sensible accountant who endures a tumultuous quarter-life crisis involving a struggle with career chaos, powerful parental pressure and a lacklustre love life when she fails the Uniform Final Examination (UFE), the single most important thing standing between her and a blossoming career at one of the Big Four accounting firms.

Drawing strength from her friends, foreign travel and her love of fashion, Ali's courageous journey of self-discovery will embolden other young women to listen to the desires of their heart and act on what they learn, while whisking them away to historic and romantic Cuba.

"From the chic boutiques of Montreal to the sultry nightlife in Cuba, Fashionably Late sparkles with wit and humour. You will fall in love with Dajani's engaging Lebanese-Canadian heroine," commented JoAnn Hornak, author of Adventures of a Salsa Goddess.

"It was about having something to say," Dajani, an accountant-turned-author, responded when asked why she decided to pen her first novel. "I wanted to create a novel that people would enjoy, but I was encouraged to infuse it with details and insights about the immigrant experience, especially as seen through the eyes of a deeply misunderstood minority group (Arabs). Ultimately, it was the multicultural aspect of the novel as well as the unusual setting that appealed to people," she explains.

Born in Lebanon and raised in Canada, Dajani grew up loving all things right-brained, but when it came time for university, opted to major in accounting instead. After completing (and passing) her accounting examinations, Dajani moved to the Cayman Islands to work in the offshore banking industry. Eager to flex her creative muscles and explore her passion for fashion, Dajani enrolled in a Fashion Marketing degree at LaSalle College in her spare time.

Fashionably Late enjoyed an international release in June 2007, and is available at major bookstores as well as on-line at Chapters, Indigo and Amazon.

Protestors target anti-Arab/Muslim Congressman Mark Kirk and his pro-war policies

Americans Against Escalation in Iraq
http://noiraqescalation.com/
For Immediate Release
Contact: Josh Levin
July 2nd, 2007

Veterans Turn Up the Heat on Congressman Mark Kirk Over Iraq War

National “Iraq Summer" Campaign Targets Three in Illinois Highlighting New Voices Tired of Endless Iraq War

Northbrook, IL – A growing coalition of veterans, families of veterans, faith leaders and peace activists will take aim at Congressman Mark Kirk for his support of President Bush’s Iraq policy this Tuesday. The effort, one of three in Illinois and 40 nationwide, is part of the “Iraq Summer” campaign. Over the next ten weeks, a barrage of events, letter writing campaigns, volunteer activities, internet organizing and resolution efforts directed at Kirk, Tim Johnson (IL-15) and Ray LaHood (IL-18) will call on the lawmakers to reject President Bush's failed policy of endless war and vote for the safe, responsible redeployment of American troops out of Iraq.

"Iraq Summer" is a nationwide campaign organized by Americans Against Escalation in Iraq, which is dispatching nearly 100 organizers to the home states and districts of Republican Senators and Representatives who have opposed setting a timeline to end the war in Iraq. The program is modeled on the "Freedom Summer" civil rights project. Organizers will be in fifteen states from Nevada to Maine, a total of 40 congressional districts.

What: Launch of "Iraq Summer," Campaign to Turn the Heat Up on Congressman Mark Kirk

Who: Ray Parrish, Veteran Counselor and Vietnam Veteran; Americans Against Escalation in Iraq

Where: Outside the office of Congressman Mark Kirk, 707 Skokie Boulevard, Northbrook, IL 60062. Exit the Edens Expressway (I-94) at Dundee Rd, head west 0.2 miles to Skokie Blvd, turn right (north) and go to the office building next to Morton’s Steakhouse.

When: Tuesday, July 3rd, 11am
###

New America Media Host Summit with Immigrant Rights Groups in the South

Building Stronger Communications:

A Summit of Ethnic Media and Immigrant Rights Groups From the South

New America Media, Posted: Jun 19, 2007

Commissioner Michael L. Thurmond and Hispanic Pollster Sergio Bendixen to Speak at July 12 Atlanta Immigration Summit.

Listen to Bendixen announce NAM's Poll of Undocumented Immigrants on June 20.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Alex Moe 646-812-4885
Immigrant Rights Groups Contact: Elena Shore 415-503-4170

ATLANTA -- Michael L. Thurmond, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor, and Hispanic pollster Sergio Bendixen will meet with Southern ethnic media and immigrant rights groups at the 2007 Immigration Summit in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted by New America Media (NAM) in partnership with the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia, this free summit will offer unique opportunities for reporters and editors who face the immense challenge of covering immigration in the Southern United States.At a time of intense national debate over immigration reform – the number one concern for ethnic media – cities across the South are roiled by changing demographics, anti-immigrant legislation, and growing anti-immigrant sentiment in their communities.

The goal of the summit is not only to bolster the communications of the Immigration Rights Movement, but also to strengthen reporting around immigration issues. The event will be a major benchmark in connecting ethnic media to one another, as well as to key leaders of the national Immigrant Rights Movement, and to the local community-based organizations working around this subject. Pollster Sergio Bendixen, CEO of Bendixen & Associates, will share the findings of a new poll of undocumented immigrants in the United States and discuss its implications for the South, and for immigration reform.

Michael L. Thurmond, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor, will share his views on the economic and labor issues surrounding the immigration debate.The day-long summit will include panels on where the national Immigrant Rights Movement is headed, how to build a more effective collaboration between ethnic media and immigrant rights groups in the South, how to cover immigration policy, and strategies for dealing with and covering the anti-immigrant backlash.

Ethnic media now provide news and information for one out of four adults in the United States, according to NAM multilingual polling. Nowhere has the growth of this sector been more dramatic than in the South. Last month, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that by 2025 Georgia, Florida and Maryland will be among a handful of states in which the minority population will outnumber Whites. Additionally, Atlanta has more than a dozen Korean-language newspapers, along with robust Hispanic, African- American, Chinese, Vietnamese and Hmong media. This free summit will provide a rare occasion for journalists in this sector to meet and build relationships with advocates on the frontlines who can help them cover these issues more effectively for their communities.

When: Thursday July 12, 20079:00 a.m. Breakfast and Registration10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Program (lunch included)Where: University of Georgia Alumni Center

Atlanta Financial Center3333 Peachtree Road, N.E.South Tower, Suite 210, Atlanta, Georgia 30326

Phone: (404) 266-2622Cost: There is no charge for this event.

RSVP: Please RSVP no later than Tuesday July 3rd.Media: Please RSVP to Alex Moe at 646-812-4885.

Immigrant Rights Groups: Please RSVP to Elena Shore at 415-503-4170.

Hosted by New America Media, the largest national association of ethnic media in the U.S. Co-sponsored by Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Georgia, National Immigration Forum, Center for Community Change, Asian American Justice Center, and the National Council of La Raza.

end

MidEastYouth wins major prize from Atlas Economic Research Foundation

http://www.mideastyouth.com/

We are extremely proud to announce the fact that we won the $5,000 award from the Atlas Economic Research Foundation for leading the best New Intellectual Entrepreneurship Project, our FIRST financial gain after a full year of being active.

The reason we won is the following:

"Your project was the most appealing among all entries. We were particularly impressed because the forum manages several blogs, provides free services to other cyber activists, is responsive to breaking news, and has a large network of supporters and reporters in different countries in the Mideast region. It was also helpful to review your detailed budget that was precise, reasonable, and tied to outcomes. "

- Sajid Anani, program manager for Atlas’s Middle East program

I congratulate all Mideast Youth authors, staff members and participants on this huge step forward. The money will be mostly used for technical improvements such as a professional re-design of the site as well as eventually moving to a dedicated server.

We hope to see the design done by the end of July and we hope to be moving our servers to a powerful one in December so we can start next year on an entirely new page!

Congratulations everyone.
END

JOB POSTING: Regional Sales Representative for national food distributor

An opportunity to build a career with the Nation’s fastest growing Middle East food importer

Ziyad Brothers Importing is looking for an enthusiastic, creative & imaginative self-starter to represent our company in various regions around the United States.

The ideal candidate has a desire to succeed and in helping Ziyad Brothers Importing enhance its sales base by generating new customers and maintaining the highest level of customer service that is the cornerstone of our business.

If you are looking to broaden or change your career in business, this could be the opportunity for you. Please contact us today and join us in building a rewarding career experience. Arabic & English language proficiency required.

Email your resume, work history overview, three references and your contact information to: jobs@Ziyad.com.

end

Non-violent activist beaten by Israeli police, groups alleges

B'Tselem demands an investigation into beating of the organisation's field worker by a police officer

The Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Territories, has written to the director of the department for police investigations in the Israeli Ministry of Justice (DPI), to demand that it open a criminal investigation into allegations of unlawful use of force by a police officer who beat B'Tselem field researcher in East Jerusalem, Kareem Jubran. In addition, B'Tselem wrote to the commander of the Jerusalem district of the Israeli Police, demanding that it investigates the detention of Jubran, and the violent police officer's refusal to identify himself. B'Tselem attached information regarding video documentation of the incident, and potential witnesses.
On Tuesday, 12.6.07, Kareem Jubran was filming police and border officers who were checking Palestinian drivers in the Mount of Olives area of East Jerusalem. A police officer approached Jubran, asked him for identification and searched his belongings. Although Jubran complied with his instructions, the officer ordered him into the police van, where he punched him in the stomach with great force. Jubran was then detained by the police officers for about three hours. He was released with no charge.

------------------------
For additional information please contact Sarit Michaeli, Communications Director,+972-(0)50-5387230, saritm@btselem.org


Sarit MichaeliCommunications DirectorB'Tselem+972 (0)2 6735599 (office)+972 (0)50 5387230 (cell)http://www.btselem.org/

Palestinian NGOs blast Israel repraisal raids in Gaza, ask for help

Urgent Call from Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO)

The Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO) calls on the United Nations and the International Community to immediately intervene to stop the war crimes committed by the Israeli occupational forces (IOF) on Palestinian civilians and their properties in the Gaza Strip.

On Wednesday, 16 May 2007, IOF initiated a wide scale offensive against the Gaza Strip. They moved into the northern Gaza Strip, IOF expanded the offensive to include aerial attacks that targeted civilian facilities, soon after, the Israeli occupation government to carry out a series of extra-judicial executions, IOF have killed 50 Palestinians and have wounded 200 others.

IOF have imposed a strict siege on the Gaza Strip closed Gaza strip border crossings as a form of collective punishment against Palestinian civilians.
In the West bank The Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) on 23 May 2007 arrested 33 members of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), cabinet and local authorities. Most of those are elected officials.
The International Community has maintained a silence in the face of disproportionate Israeli aggression in the form of daily attacks and crimes.

PNGO as a coordinating body for more than 100 NGOs calls on the International Community to urgently protect Palestinian civilians and pressure the Israeli occupation Government to stop its aggression on the Palestinian people and end the siege.

PNGO considers the continued Israeli aggression and siege will lead to a health and humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza strip calling on the International community to pressure Israel to ensure it's respect for the Fourth Geneva Convention in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
PNGO also condemns the detentions targeting elected representatives and political leaders of the Palestinian people, calling upon the international community to immediately secure the release of Palestinian PLC elected officials.

PNGO calls on the International Community and legal and humanitarian organizations to bring Israeli perpetrators to international justice.

PNGO also calls on the international NGOs to intensify their efforts to pressure governments to work on ending the Israeli escalation of aggression on Palestinian civilians.
End

Palestinian NGOs Network “PNGO

Amjad Shawa
Coordinator
Palestinian NGOs Network PNGO
Gaza strip- palestine
TEL 0097282847518
Fax 0097282835889
Mobile :00972 599401297
Email : pngo@palnet.com

Scholarships for Illinois Arab Students available

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nassem Ziyad
May 25, 2007 708-222-8330 ext 303

Ziyad Brothers Importing Announces Illinois Scholarship
for first-year College-bound Arab students

Cicero, Il – Ziyad Brothers Importing announced it is expanding its existing “Giving Back to the Community” student scholarship program to any student of Arab heritage who will be attending their first year of college this Fall.

A scholarship in the amount of $1,000 cash will be given to one male and one female student of Arab heritage, selected from entries who demonstrate the highest level of pride, self-identity, confidence and writing talent.

The Scholarship will recognize students who demonstrate pride in their Arab heritage, and who detail how they hope to contribute both to their community as Arab Americans and also to this country, explained ZBI General Manager Nassem Ziyad.

“We want to recognize the future leaders of our community who demonstrate a commitment to enhancing and strengthening the image of the Arab Americans through individual initiative and community service. We are looking for young Arab American students, one male and one female, who demonstrate their pride in their Arab heritage and as Americans,” Ziyad said.

“There many talented Arab students and we want to encourage them to pursue their professional career goals while also remaining dedicated to their Arab American heritage.”

Ziyad Brothers Importing, an Illinois-based distributor of more than 1,200 food items to stores in 46 states and six countries, awarded its first scholarships to students in 2006.

Applicants are required to submit an essay of 500 to 800 words on how they hope to “Give Back to the Community.” Application Deadline is August 1, 2007. Winners will be announced in August and scholarships will be presented at the beginning of September. The student recipients must be enrolled in a college or university this Fall in order to receive the cash scholarship amount. Applicants can get information on applying for the scholarship by visiting www.ZiyadNews.com.

Ziyad Brothers Importing was originally founded as “The Syrian Bakery & Grocery Inc.” in 1966 by Ahmad and Ibrahim Ziyad, two immigrant brothers from Palestine. Their small retail outlet on Chicago’s south side specialized in hard to find Middle Eastern food products as well as the first Pita Bread bakery in Chicago catering to the Middle Eastern ethnic community.

The retail outlet later expanded into one of the first automated Pita Bakeries in the Midwest and began distributing Pita bread and Middle Eastern food products to other retail outlets. Ten years later, from these humble beginnings, Ahmad and Ibrahim Ziyad purchased their first warehouse located at 21st and Western Avenue.

In 1995, Ziyad Brothers Importing consolidated facilities and moved into the current location in Cicero, IL. A year later in 1996, Ahmad Ziyad passed away at the age of 56. His brother Ibrahim assumed the role of President. Ziyad Brothers Importing is a family owned and operated business. Ahmad’s sons Nemer, Nassem and Nazmy and Ibrahim’s son Nezar and daughters Leila and Sonia also work at the company.

Winning essays will be published on the Ziyad.com web site as well as on the web site of the National Arab American Journalists Association (www.NAAJA-US.com), and in participating Arab American newspapers and magazines.

End

Mosques and Muslims warned about possible hate attacks in United States

MPAC URGES MOSQUES TO BE EXTRA VIGILENT AGAINST POSSIBLE ATTACKS
(Washington, DC - 5/15/07) -- The Muslim Public Affairs Council today urged Muslim American leaders community and mosque leaders to take extra precautions to ensure the security of their mosques and community centers, after receiving a phone call from the FBI informing MPAC that FBI agents are investigating threats against a Florida Muslim leader and two mosques this week.

SEE:
"Years After 9-11, American Muslims Increasingly Targets of Hate"
(Florida Sun-Sentinel, 5/7/07)

In the years since 9/11, Florida's Muslim community has witness an inordinately high number of vandalism and arson attacks against its institutions. In December, a man who stepped outside of a mosque in Melbourne, FL to use a cell phone was shot at five times, one bullet barely missing his head. In April, a Tampa mosque was burned to the ground in an arson attack. Also in April, an Islamic school in Cooper City, FL discovered white powder spread across the campus, which turned out to be non-toxic. The alarming increase in anti-Muslim attacks is being witnessed across the country. Last week, the office of the U.S. Attorney Eastern Division and the FBI announced an indictment against a Philadelphia woman who sent a threatening note to her employer at the hotel where they both work. In all of these incidents, engagement and dialogue with federal and local law enforcement has proved an effective tool in accessing resources to ensure the security and well-being of all Muslim Americans. Both leaders and community members have an important role in ensuring the safety of their mosques, schools and community centers.Since May 2004, MPAC's National Grassroots Campaign to Fight Terrorism has offered mosques a set of proactive community-led guidelines and resources in order to protect mosques, communities and the country. It also supports Mosques in developing ongoing relationships with interfaith groups and law enforcement officials. Click here to find out more about the campaign!

Additionally, MPAC recently launched a national campaign called "Truth Over Fear: Countering Islamophobia" to promote accurate portrayals and depictions of Muslim Americans by public officials and news media, and to train Muslim Americans to respond effectively and constructively to distortions of Islam and Muslims. To schedule an interactive and high energy training session with MPAC experts in your community, email Community Development Director Haris Tarin at haris@mpac.org.

ACT NOW!


Creating a secure environment is a three-step process: Assessment, Planning and Implementation. You may wish to consult with your local police and/or hire a professional security firm for assistance in this process. MPAC urges mosques and religious leaders to utilize the following security guidelines effective immediately:

Assessment:

Be watchful, ready, and willing to report "suspicious" or unusual activity.
Regularly inspect your building. You should be able to quickly ascertain if something is amiss and help law enforcement if there is a problem - report anything out of place, missing, or does not appear to belong.

Ensure that security devices are turned on and functioning, that outdoor lighting is working, that windows and fence lines are kept clear of bushes and that access to your building is appropriately limited and consistent with fire codes.

Share ideas and suggestions about security and safety.

Help create a culture that is both secure and welcoming.

Support the board and professionals as they make the decision to create and implement an effective security plan.

Planning:

Identify Targets for Protection - Identify what you need to protect (e.g., people, property and data) and what makes those things vulnerable.

Build Relationships with Law Enforcement - The importance of developing and maintaining a working relationship with your local law enforcement agencies cannot be overstated. At the very least, your local police department may have a crime prevention officer who will do an on-site security inspection and review your plan. Not only could this provide useful information, but it will help build a relationship with your local law enforcement. MPAC can be helpful in initiating contacts with police or other law enforcement agencies.

Have all emergency phone numbers readily available. While you should always try to use 911 first in any emergency, you should also have the phone number of your local emergency responders readily available. Have cell phones available to call emergency services from outside your facility.
Implementation:

Ensure that entrances to your building are monitored; no one should enter your building unscreened. There are many ways to screen, including using ushers, volunteers, staff, etc. The installation of closed-circuit TV cameras, intercoms and door release systems can assist in this process.

Minimize the number of open entrances to your facility (consistent with fire codes). A culture that promotes security consciousness allows staff and visitors to understand that minor inconveniences may translate into major security benefits.

Have a disposable camera available. This way, you can take pictures (when it is safe to do so) that may assist police if a suspicious individual or car is seen.

Founded in 1988, the Muslim Public Affairs Council is an American institution which informs and shapes public opinion and policy by serving as a trusted resource to decision makers in government, media and policy institutions. MPAC is also committed to developing leaders with the purpose of enhancing the political and civic participation of Muslim Americans.[CONTACT:
Edina Lekovic, 213-383-3443, communications@mpac.org]

How Does MPAC Help Muslims & Islam in America?

As a matter of policy, MPAC DOES NOT accept any funding from foreign governments. The political and financial independence of MPAC will sustain the future of Islam in America. MPAC relies on your financial support to sustain its activities and represent the sentiments and interests of American Muslims not foreign governments.

NEW: The American Muslim Teenager’s Handbook

I'd like to share the news of the recent publication of our book titled 'The American Muslim Teenager's Handbook' which addresses this growing, but often ignored demographic - Muslim teens! Please visit www.theamth.com for more info - your name keeps popping up as an involved, concerned citizen of this country who is attempting to fight the war on ignorance about Arab Americans as well as Muslim Americans - please keep up the great work as we desparately need more journalists/publishers like yourself! I would be honored if you reviewed this book on your website. I'm sending you the press release which you are free to run on your website if you choose - please support us in our efforts to educate and empower the Muslim youth of America!

Sincerely,
Dilara Hafiz, Imran Hafiz & Yasmine Hafiz

The American Muslim Teenager’s Handbook

Accessible and provocative, The American Muslim Teenager’s Handbook by Dilara Hafiz, Imran Hafiz, and Yasmine Hafiz, is a fresh perspective on Islam updated for the 21st century. The essentials of Muslim beliefs are interspersed with lively commentary and quotes from American Muslim teenagers. Each chapter deals with a timely subject in Islam, beginning with excerpts from the Quran and a teen-friendly interpretation of that verse, then offering real-world examples that illustrate the essence of Muslim life. “What a delightful, hilarious, wonderful, beautiful book! I loved it!” says noted Muslim spokesman, Reza Aslan, author of No God but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam.
Muslim teenagers across America contributed their thoughts on living as American Muslims, expressing their heartfelt belief that one can successfully fulfill that role through better education and greater understanding – hence the need for the user-friendly Handbook. There is a dearth of current literature that addresses Muslim teens or discusses Islam in a progressive context. With books such as this one, the media’s constant refrain of “Where are the Moderate Muslims?” is no longer a valid question. Anyone curious about the silent majority of Muslims who do not receive media coverage will find this a refreshing, fascinating read.
Dilara Hafiz and her two children, Yasmine and Imran, all possess a strong background in Islam, but it is their insightful combined experiences as a mother and Sunday School teacher, teenage students, interfaith activists, and public speakers that elevate the Handbook into a ‘must-read book’ for anyone interested in Islam. “What a book! I wish every major faith had just such a book for teens of their faith. We could then share them… and build peace in the world." - Dr. Paul Eppinger, Executive Director - Arizona Interfaith Movement
To purchase a book or to learn more about the authors, go to www.theamth.com.
The American Muslim Teenager’s Handbook, ISBN 978-0-9792531-2-6, $11.95, 5½” x 8½” , 144 pages.

ACCESS Calls for Immigration Debate To Move Forward in the Senate

NEWS

Contact:
Hannan Deep
Angie Raouf
313-842-7010
313-213-0408 cell

313-297-4535
313-213-0278 cell

hdeep@accesscommunity.org
araouf@accesscommunity.org

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACCESS Calls for Immigration Debate To Move Forward in the Senate

Senator Stabenow and Senator Levin:
“We need your leadership on comprehensive immigration reform”


Dearborn, Michigan, May 15, 2007 – Today, the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) called on Senators Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin to support comprehensive immigration reform and allow the debate in the Senate to go forward. The Senate is expected to begin debate on immigration tomorrow, but some Senate Republicans have suggested they will block the debate from going forward if last year’s Senate-passed bill is introduced.

“A majority of American’s support comprehensive immigration reform, including a path to earned citizenship, and the country is tired of waiting for Congress to do its job” said Noel Saleh, ACCESS Board President. “We expect Senators Stabenow and Levin to take the lead on this issue and help pass bipartisan legislation that balances stronger border security with common sense reform — including due process protections, family reunification, respect for worker rights and a pathway to citizenship.”

Public opinion polls continue to show majority support for immigration solutions that include enhanced border security, workplace and employer enforcement, earned legalization for undocumented immigrants with a path to citizenship, and expanded visas for future immigrant workers and families. In April a CNN poll (April 10-12, 2007) found that 77% of the American people support legislation that would allow “illegal immigrants already living in the United States for a number of years to stay in this country and apply for U.S. citizenship if they had a job and paid back taxes." Similarly, a USA Today/Gallup poll (April 12-15, 2007) found that 78% of those polled favored immigration reform that would allow immigrants in the U.S. illegally to apply for citizenship if requirements are met.

“Today we are urging Senators Stabenow and Levin to allow the debate to go forward in the Senate so that we can have a solution to our broken and outdated immigration system,” continued Taleb Salhab, ACCESS National Outreach Director. “Senator Reid has said he will bring last year’s bill to the floor if the senators involved in ongoing negotiations do not reach agreement by Wednesday. We are calling on our Michigan Senators to allow the debate on immigration reform to go forward. The American people want this problem solved with a workable, comprehensive approach to immigration reform.”

# # #

www.accesscommunity.org

New Palestinian-Israeli American magazine launchedin US

Despite the frequent labelling of the youth demographic as "the future" and "the hope" of the never-ending Arab-Israeli conflict, they have often been unable to affect real change. The Arab and Jewish editors of The Yalla Journal decided to get together to create a space in the form of a printed book where their voices could co-exist in a time where there is no such physical space.
The Yalla Journal is a grassroots collaborative book that is a youth response to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. It features 200 pages of the poetry, photography, short stories, personal narrative and essays of Jewish and Arab youth aged 18-30 from across the world.

The Arabic word Yalla explains the mandate of the journal: it means "Come on! Let's get going!" and is used colloquially in both Palestinian and Israeli dialect today. Through this call to action, the journal hopes to inspire the reader to choose communication over silence and dialogue over violence when dealing with the present situation. The journal poses questions like: "What does the conflict mean to Arab and Jewish youth today?" and "What does it mean to be Palestinian or Israeli?" It attempts to weave together a narrative through the stories and meditations generated by the various responses to these questions. In essence, Yalla hopes to help open up the much-needed lines of communication between Arab and Jewish communities abroad. The first edition of The Yalla Journal was released in 2005 across University Campuses in Canada.

The first launch was co-sponsored by the Arab Student's Association and Hillel Jewish student groups. It generated much public interest. Yalla editors were featured in both the local and national media, and were interviewed on the local radio and spoke at University events across Eastern North America. They were also recipients of the 2005 Quebec Government's Forces Avenir Award.The second edition of the innovative journal was released in Canada in November and is ready to be released for the first time in the US! The launch party will feature live Arabic and Jewish artists and musicians, footwork performance/ interpretation of the conflict by some particularly concious Chicago youth, journal readings and free copies of the book.

The launch will take place at 7:30pm on Wednesday May 16 at the Mercury Cafe 1505 W. Chicago Ave (Chicago/Ashland... The Chicago stop on the blue and brown lines). Yalla invites you to join us as we "Get going!"

Press copies are available upon request

For further information contact yallajournal@yahoo.ca .

Rachel Leya Davidson ,Senior Jewish EditorDina Awad, Senior Palestinian Editor

Palestinians routinely abused during Israel interrogations, ne study says

Press Release – Embargo until Sunday, 6 May 2007, 10:00 AM

New report uncovers routine ill-treatment of Palestiniansin Israel Security Agency interrogations


Today, (6 May 6 2007) HaMoked – Center for the Defense of the Individual and B'Tselem, held a press conference in Jerusalem to present the findings of a new report concerning the methods of interrogation employed by the Israel Security Agency (ISA) and based on the testimonies of 73 Palestinians who were interrogated between July 2005 and March 2006.

The report reveals the routine isolation of interrogees from the outside world by the ISA over the course of the interrogation; the appalling conditions in which they are held, which include separation and sensory deprivation and are used in order to exert psychological pressure and reduce the body's resistance; during the interrogation, the interrogees are shackled to a chair in a painful position for protracted periods of time and they are subjected to humiliation, swearing and threats by ISA interrogators. None of these methods can be considered a side-effect of the necessities of the interrogation and detention. Their purpose is to break the interrogees' spirit and as such, they contradict the HCJ ruling and constitute prohibited ill-treatment under international law.

In some cases, the interrogators employ methods which involve direct physical violence including beating, painful binding, back bending, body stretching and prolonged sleep deprivation. These methods all come within the definition of torture under international law. All signs point to the fact that these methods are employed according to set regulations and receive prior authorization.

The report emphasizes that acts of ill-treatment and torture perpetrated by ISA agents are carried out under the auspices of the law enforcement system. Thus, for example, while 500 complaints against the ISA have been filed since the beginning of 2001, not a single criminal investigation was instigated. The responsibility for examining these complaints rests with an ISA agent, who, in most cases, finds that the complaints "are not credible." Even in those few cases where the examination yielded that the ISA interrogators did indeed abuse the interogee, the State Attorney's Office ordered the file closed without a criminal investigation, relying on a biased interpretation of the HCJ ruling.

B'Tselem and HaMoked demand the Israeli government conform with the provisions of international law, by, inter alia, completely prohibiting, both in legislation and in practice, the use of harmful interrogation methods and blocking the possibility that ISA agents who abused or tortured interogees will be exempted from criminal liability.


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For additional information, and to obtain copies of the report,please contact Sarit Michaeli, Communications Director,+972-(0)50-5387230, saritm@btselem.org

Sarit MichaeliCommunications DirectorB'Tselem+972 (0)2 6735599 (office)+972 (0)50 5387230 (cell)http://www.btselem.org/

Zogby Testifies before Congress May 3

AAI President James Zogby to Provide Expert TestimonyBefore House Subcommittees on Arab Opinion of U.S.
MEDIA ADVISORY
WASHINGTON - May 2, 2007 - One of the nation's leading experts on public opinion in the Arab world will appear tomorrow before a joint hearing of two House subcommittees to provide insight into Arab opinions on U.S. policies, values and people.
Dr. James Zogby, president of the Arab American Institute and senior advisor with Zogby International, will present results from extensive polling ZI has conducted in the region.
His testimony will reveal the attitudes and values the Arab world shares in common with Americans, outline how and why their support of U.S. policies continues to erode, and what we can do to create stronger ties with the Middle East through opinion-shaping efforts.
WHAT: AAI President and ZI Senior Advisor Dr. James Zogby testifying before Congress on the matter of "Arab Opinion on American Policies, Values, and People."
His testimony is part of a joint hearing of the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia, and the House Subcommittee on International Organizations, Human Rights, and Oversight.
WHEN:Thurs., May 3, 2007 at 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: Room 2172, Rayburn House Office Building; Washington, D.C. 20515MEDIA CONTACT: Jenn Kauffman, 202-429-9210 x21 or 202-494-9859, jkauffman@aaiusa.org
Founded in 1985, the Arab American Institute (AAI) is a nonprofit organization committed to the civic and political empowerment of Americans of Arab descent. AAI provides policy, research and public affairs services to support a broad range of community activities.
For more information on AAI, please visit www.aaiusa.org.

1600 K Street, NW, Suite 601 Washington, DC 20006
phone (202) 429-9210 fax (202) 429-9214
http://www.aaiusa.org aai@aaiusa.org

http://www.aaiusa.org/unsubscribe/media

Report on Israeli torture to be released May 6

Invitation to Press Conference to publish new Report:

Absolute Prohibition (working title)
Torture and Inhuman and Degrading Treatment of Palestiniansby Israeli Security Forces


Sunday, May 6 2007, 11:00
B'Tselem Office: 8 HaTa'asiya Street, 4th floor, Talpiot, Jerusalem

HaMoked and B'Tselem will present the findings of their new report on the interrogation methods of the Israel Security Agency (formerly the GSS). The report is based on affidavits taken from 73 Palestinians arrested and interrogated between July 2005 and March 2006.

We look forward to seeing you
For additional details, to confirm participation and for directions: Sarit Michaeli, B'Tselem Communications Director, +972-(0)50-5387230 saritm@btselem.org


Sarit MichaeliCommunications DirectorB'Tselem+972 (0)2 6735599 (office)+972 (0)50 5387230 (cell)http://www.btselem.org/

Israeli military exstremists protect settler fanatics, arrest peace activists

Phone: (517) 484 3178 Fax: (517) 484-4219 Email: michiganpeaceteam@comcast.net Website: www.michiganpeaceteam.org Fr. C. Peter Dougherty cell: 517-303 0116 For Immediate Release:

MICHIGAN PEACE TEAM MEMBER DETAINED BY ISRAELI MILITARY IN HEBRON, WEST BANK

James Coady, a member of the Michigan Peace Team (MPT), was briefly detained by the Israeli military Wednesday April 25 in the West Bank city of Hebron.

Coady, along with MPT member Karen Donahue and other internationals, had been observing and intervening as Israeli soldiers held up Palestinians who were walking near the Ibrahim Mosque, and had also intervened as Israeli settlers were throwing stones at Palestinians while the Israeli military stood by and watched, doing nothing. Coady and Donahue used a video camera to document this behavior of the settlers and the soldiers.

In response to this international intervention, the soldiers later in the morning stopped every international human rights worker and wrote down their passport numbers. When they did come to Coady, who for awhile had evaded the soldiers, they called to him and said they needed to "check him." When he asked if he was being arrested, they said "we just want to talk to you." They drove away with him in a military vehicle. As the internationals and a Palestinian-led human rights organization were trying to find out where Coady was taken and were deciding if an urgent action appeal was needed, Coady soon returned to the internationals' apartment, having been released. "Just another wonderful day in a police state. It is all such madness," quipped Donahue.

Two other MPT members, Martha Larsen and Loretta Johnston, are staying in the Jordan Valley with a Bedouin family to help prevent the demolition of their home by the Israeli military. MPT, which now has a continual team presence in the West Bank, works with Israelis, Palestinians, and other internationals to reduce violence in the Occupied Territories and create space for those in the conflict to work for a just resolution of the conflict. Michigan Peace Team was founded in 1993.

It provides trainings in active nonviolence designed for the specific needs of the participants, and deploys peace teams into places of conflict (both domestically and internationally) to reduce violence. MPT convenes, supports, and participates with local peace action groups and gatherings, and mentors individuals seeking experience with international teams in places of conflict. It also educates the public to the vision and practice of active nonviolence. MPT has deployed peace teams into areas of potential violence around the world.

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PLO blames Israel incursions for blocking peace

Press Release

Vicious military incursions are the Israeli way to escape Peace obligations

With formation of the Palestinian National unity government, the 19th Arab summit have agreed that the Arab Peace Initiative is the key towards a dialogue with Israel in order to reach a comprehensive Peace agreement and to establish the independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders. Israel on the other side is using all its power to divert away from its obligations towards peace.

The latest Israeli military invasions against Gaza strip, Jenin, and Nablus leaves the Palestinians and Arabs with no partner in their serious search for Peace; the Israeli government is escalating its terror in an attempt to bring the Palestinian unity government to a deadlock and to minimize any positive impacts for President Abbass efforts to break the International siege against the Palestinians.

For months now, and while the Palestinian Authority has been working to bring situation in Gaza to calm, the Israeli government has been sabotaging all those efforts and manipulating all excuses to avoid being reengaged in concrete steps towards the Arab initiative that is seen by all as the key to the solving the Palestinian issue.
After the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the Palestinians hopes were lifted high as they looked forwards for expanding the scenario to the West Bank; again, the Israeli measures on ground defeated all hopes.

DAIR –PLO confirms that the Palestinians are committed to the Arab Peace initiative as the road to an Independent Palestinian State, they are- more than ever- ready to embark in a comprehensive Peace talks with Israel as they are the most harmed of the current absurd situation.


Department of Arab and International Relations (DAIR)
PLO
April 23rd, 2007

RAWI Conference May 18-20 Dearborn

PRESS RELEASE!!
Arab American writers organizationto hold national conference in May
DEARBORN , Mich .—The Radius of Arab American Writers, Inc. (RAWI) will turn Dearborn into the mecca for Arab American writers when it holds its second national conference on May 17-20, 2007 at the Arab American National Museum , 13624 Michigan Ave. "RAWI welcomes not only its members but also others who are interestedin engaging in the Arab American literary community said one of theconference's organizer, Khaled Mattawa, assistant professor of English at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor ."The conference will provide a venue for 150 or so writers and scholarsto present our writings and ideas to one another and to the Detroit andArab communities," said RAWI's Executive Director, Steven Salaita, whoteaches at Virginia Tech University . "Our gathering will offer anopportunity for colleagues to share strategies for publishing and circulating our work and also for confronting academic, community andpolitical barriers."This year's conference theme, "Writing While Arab: Politics, Hyphens,and Homelands," seeks to address the multiple challenges Arab Americanwriters face in an intensified post-9/11 climate, says Mattawa, who isone of the conference's organizers."When it comes down to aesthetics, we (artists, writers, poets) are all on the same palate. I see Arab American literary and cultural studies reaching its height: a renaissance is here. We should pay attention to what beautiful things our communities are producing," says RAWI secretary, Deborah Najor Alkamano, a professor in the English department at Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn .In 21 readings and workshops open to all registered attendees ($35 for RAWI membership and "$85 for the conference, including meals), thewriters will address such topics as:• How is Arab American writing affected by the targeting of Arabs andMuslims as the "national enemy" inside and outside of the U.S. and bythe wars waged in our homelands?• How do we envision a future for our literature between the desire for location within American culture and our transcultural experiences?• How do we promote and teach our literature? • How to promote our unconventional literature within the convensionsof the market place?To register, visit the RAWI Web site at http://www.rawi.org/conferences.htmlOr OTHER CONTACTS HERE:Steven Salaita, Executive Director, RAWI,salaita@vt.eduDeborah Alkamano, RAWI secretarydebnajor@rawi.orgTo attend as a member of the news media, contact: MEDIA CONTACT HERE:Conference Coordinator, Rola Nashef,rawicoordinator@gmail.comABOUT RAWI: Founded in 1993, RAWI is a network of 215 Arab American writers,scholars and artists of all genres. Its mission is to urge members topublish their work in mainstream publications, to support sister andbrother writers in the Arab World, to nurture emerging writers, and toguide and bring together Arab American writers. Although devoted to theArab American community, RAWI accepts members of all ethnic andnational backgrounds. Its membership includes Muslims, Christians andJews, and is primarily American, represented by people of many nationalbackgrounds.

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PLEASE JOIN US and SPREAD THE WORDMEET ESTABLISHED AND UP AND COMING ARAB AMERICAN ACADEMICS, ARTISTS, ACTIVIST, BLOGGERS, FILMMAKERS, POETS, NOVELISTS, .....

ATTEND WORKSHOPS WITH PUBLISHERS and EDITORS ALL ARE WELCOMEArab American Writers Meet at AANM "Writing While Arab: Politics, Hyphens and Homelands" is the theme for the second national conference of RAWI, Radius of Arab American Writers, to be held May 17-19, 2007 at the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn . Featured Writers included Naomi Shihab Nye, Rabih Alamedinne for the opening night. Friday night, May 18th, RAWI and CAAS are co-sponsoring D.H. Melhem, and Fadhil Al-Azzawi (co-sponsored by Center for University of Michigan-Deaborn's Center for Arab American Studies, ARAB AMERICAN WRITERS SERIES).

For registration information, visit www.rawi.org . Preregistration is a plus!! To update your RAWI membership and pre-register for the conference, please fill out and send our registration form:
http://www.rawi.org/pdf/registration.pdf

. Registration for non-students who have not paid dues in the period since January, 2007, will be $120; for students it will be $75. Checks payable to RAWI. PO Box 11708, Blacksburg, VA 24062. Email Rola Nashef at rawicoordinator@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns.

ARAB AMERICAN BOOK CLUB at the ARAB AMERICAN MUSEUM
Dr. Steven Salaita, RAWI's executive director is the author of Anti-Arab Racism in the USA: Where It Comes From and What It Means for Politics
Today, the title for the AANM's upcoming Library Book Club meeting on Sat., April 28. See museum website for info about book club meeting.

PLO/DAIR: Occupation killing children's "childhood"

Press Release
PLO says Israeli Occupation is murdering Childhood

The Palestinian children lately celebrated the Palestinian children's day – (5th April). A series of formal and public festivals were held throughout the Palestinian areas; the massage was the need to secure a dignified and free life for them.

Since 2000, about 900 Palestinian children were murdered and 16.000 were injured by the Israeli forces, 750 of whom were left with permanent disabilities. About 6000 children (13-18 years old) were imprisoned by the Israeli occupation- 398 of whom are still in prisons up to this day, another 16 are administrative detainees and have been held without a trial for till now. Mohammed Khawaja 13-year-old is the youngest Palestinian child detainee in the Israeli jails.

The Palestinian children in Nablus and other areas are still used as human shields by the Israeli military army during Israeli army raids to the Palestinian houses.

The Israeli unjustified practices against our kids are depriving Palestinian children from the basic element of a normal life; right to education, freedom of movement and even the right to play. Most children went through the experience of losing a beloved relative or friend, removed from his place of living, as well the experience of being assaulted on checkpoints and barriers.

The occasion takes us back to the memories of Deer Yassin massacre that was committed by the Israeli gangs in April 9th 1948 when tens of Palestinian children and their parents were slaughtered.

The Department of Arab and International Affairs- PLO, would like to add its voice to the Palestinian children's, and to urge UN Children Committee, humanitarian organizations and governmental and non governmental bodies to stand up to their designated missions in the defense of deprived children, namely the Palestinian children in order to secure a decent and safe life for them.
Defending the Palestinian children rights- can’t be interpreted without recognizing the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people and his right to establish his own independent state.


Department of Arab and International Relations /DAIR
PLO
Ramalllah
April 14th, 2007

Illinois Scholarship for first year Arab students

Ziyad Brothers Importing Announces Illinois Scholarship for first-year College-bound Arab students

Cicero, Il – Ziyad Brothers Importing announced it is expanding its existing “Giving Back to the Community” student scholarship program to any student of Arab heritage who will be attending their first year of college this Fall.

A scholarship in the amount of $1,000 college bond will be given to one male and one female student of Arab heritage, selected from entries who demonstrate the highest level of pride, self-identity, confidence and writing talent.

The Scholarship will recognize students who demonstrate pride in their Arab heritage, and who detail how they have in the past and how they hope to contribute in the future both to their community as Arab Americans and also to this country, explained ZBI Vice President Nemer Ziyad.

“We want to recognize the future leaders of our community who demonstrate a commitment to enhancing and strengthening the image of the Arab Americans through individual initiative and community service. We are looking for young Arab American students, one male and one female, who demonstrate their pride in their Arab heritage and as Americans,” Ziyad said.

“There are many talented Arab students and we want to encourage them to pursue their professional career goals while also remaining dedicated to their Arab American heritage.”

Ziyad Brothers Importing, an Illinois-based distributor of more than 1,200 food items to stores in 46 states and six countries, awarded its first scholarships to students in 2006.

Applicants are required to submit an essay of 500 to 800 words on how they hope to “Give Back to the Community.” Winners will be announced in August and scholarships will be presented at the beginning of September. The student recipients must be enrolled in a college or university this Fall in order to receive the cash scholarship amount. Applicants can get information on applying for the scholarship by visiting www.Ziyad.com.

Ziyad Brothers Importing was originally founded in 1966 by Ahmad and Ibrahim Ziyad, two immigrant brothers from Palestine. Their small retail outlet on Chicago’s south side specialized in hard to find Middle Eastern food products as well as the first Pita Bread bakery in Chicago catering to the Middle Eastern ethnic community.

The retail outlet later expanded into one of the first automated Pita Bakeries in the Midwest and began distributing Pita bread and Middle Eastern food products to other retail outlets. Ten years later, from these humble beginnings, Ahmad and Ibrahim Ziyad purchased their first warehouse located at 21st and Western Avenue.

In 1995, Ziyad Brothers Importing consolidated facilities and moved into the current location in Cicero, IL. A year later in 1996, Ahmad Ziyad passed away at the age of 56. His brother Ibrahim assumed the role of President. Ziyad Brothers Importing is a family owned and operated business. Ahmad’s sons Nemer, Nassem and Nazmy and Ibrahim’s son Nezar and daughters Leila and Sonia also work at the company.

Winning essays will be published on the www.ZiyadNews.com web site as well as on the web site of the National Arab American Journalists Association (www.NAAJA-US.com), and in participating Arab American newspapers and magazines.

End

Picture Balata Palestinian US Tour

Picture Balata In Chicago This Week!
Picture Balata puts the camera into the hands of the children born and raised inside the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Participants ranging from ages 11 to 18 photograph their situation as they live it in Balata Refugee Camp. Showing their work and speaking about their lives, the photographers will travel to New York City; Washington, DC; Pittsburgh; Youngstown; Boston; Chicago; and San Francisco.

Three teenage participants from the Picture Balata workshop are in Chicago this week! These young people, leaving the West Bank for the first time, will be able to educate Americans on the reality of the situation in Balata Refugee Camp and occupied Palestine. The tour will also give them the chance to see that people outside Palestine support their work and the Palestinian struggle for justice, especially the Right of Return. The tour also aims to raise funds to purchase cameras, computers and Internet access so that, after further training, the workshop participants, nine in total, will be able to do everything from taking the picture, editing it on their own computer, and then publishing it on a website for the entire world to see. This self-sustainable project will give these young people the opportunity to further pursue photography and other media as a form of self-expression and resistance. For more information on any of these events, please email http://us.f324.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=info@psgchicago.org or call 312.656.8211.

The photographers will be in Chicago on the following dates:

Thursday, April 12

NPR Radio Interview
12 Noon
Listen to Picture Balata youth on National Public Radio (NPR)!
Their interview will be broadcast as part of the Worldview program at 12pm (CST) on 91.5 FM and online at http://www.wbez.org/Program_WV.aspx
Friday, April 13

Exhibition Opening! ACME Art Works 1741 N. Western, Chicago, IL 60647 6-9pm $10 Suggested Donation. Light dinner will be provided. Sponsored by the Palestine Solidarity Group - Chicago and Al Awda Chicago.
Saturday, April 14th
Nablus Society Annual Dinner Featuring Picture Balata Saint Xavier University (SXU) 3700 West 103rd Street, Chicago, IL 60655 Main Campus - Butler Room 5:30 PM -- 9 PM

Admission: $30 adults; $15 for children (12 years and younger). Call 312 804 4000 for ticket information.This event will include a full dinner with poetry, music, and a live Debka performance.

Holy Land Christians issue appeal for help

Dear brothers and sisters,
As Christians, the sunrise on Easter morning brings us more than the dawn of a new day. It is a Christian symbol of the hope for new life in the glorious resurrection of our Lord. As morning breaks from the east to the west, Christians will proclaim the hope of the gospel: "Alleluia! Christ is risen!" Our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land will also follow the traditions begun by the very first Christians as they celebrate Easter with the whole Body of Christ. The light of their eternal hope, however, finds them in the thick darkness of economic sanctions, occupation, and fear.

Some of the Arab Christians cannot see any future left in the Holy Land. The darkness of poverty and the fog of occupation have left the Christian residents of the Palestinian Territories grasping for hope – and finding little to hold. They suffer the effects of economic sanctions and blocked aid or relief efforts, and unemployment reaching past 60%. The school teachers, village administrators, and social workers have gone without pay for months. Even those who were lucky enough to have subsistence jobs and who wanted to stay are now looking for a way out. If we don't act now, time will run out for Christians in the Holy Land – even faster than I thought it might. They are moving away, leaving hope and energy for peace- building and spiritual continuity behind. They are simply unable to carve out a life any longer.

HCEF has aid programs in place, and they work. Every one of them was created to address a specific need, and those who benefit from our support express their deep thanks. They know we haven't forgotten them – instead, we bring the light of hope and the warmth of solidarity to these Christians left on the doorstep of the international political arena. Your commitment and our programs can make the difference. I feel compelled to emphasize this:

Your commitment and our programs can make the difference! Donate here

During eight years of work, we have sponsored Christian education for thousands of children, built new housing and community centers, created jobs and sustained industries supporting hundreds of families, and built a vast network of Christians across the world who are praying and acting in support of their brothers and sisters. Our efforts as a community united by faith have made a life-changing difference for thousands of Arab Christians across the Holy Land.

Your donations at work.

I never wanted to have to say these things about the lack of hope, the crushing conditions, and the insecurity weighing on the Holy Land Christians, and I hope that our involvement will reverse their effects. After seeing the extent to which conditions have deteriorated for Arab Christians, I would be irresponsible to keep this information to myself in favor of blithely hopeful language. If I had more powerful words, I would use them now.

Please, support the Holy Land Christians. They need your fervent prayers, your solidarity, and your awareness. Most of all in these desperate times, they need your material support. Do not wait for your neighbor or your friend to make the difference – log on to our website and bring help as soon as you can. You can light a candle for peace here and let the world know you care about the Arab Christians.

If you would like to support us, donate here. We need everyone on board to accomplish our mission:

To replace despair with hope, fear with security, and humiliation with human dignity.
With heartfelt prayers and trust in God, I wish all of us an Easter full of the hope of the risen Lord.

Rateb Rabie, KCHS
HCEF President
For Comments Email: news@hcef.org
Phone: 301-951-9400
Web: http://www.hcef.org

For additional articles or more info or to add your own comments please visit our website at www.hcef.org The Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation, Inc. (HCEF) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that provides support to the Christians of the Holy Land who live in Christian communities dating back in time to those who first heard Jesus Christ preach his gospel. HCEF sponsors programs that support children's education, create housing, and provide work programs for community development and indigenous handicrafts. HCEF Pilgrimages enable Western Christians to develop bonds of solidarity with their Christian brothers and sisters living in the Holy Land.