Protest anti-Palestinian bill in Congress
The Palestinian American Federation
Please send to all on your list. To join the Federation click here
Act now to stop the lies in Congress regarding Palestinian Christians. They must not succeed in dividing our people
Congressmen Michael McCaul (R-TX) and Joseph Crowley (D-NY) are soliciting cosponsors for a bill addressing "the systematic destruction" of the Palestinian Christian community by the Palestinian Authority (PA).
WE must act now to stop the false accusation against the PA involvement in the "desecration of Christian holy sites and the forced submission to "Islamic law" and arbitrary imprisonment of Palestinian Christians."
Twisting the truth: The truth is, it is the Israelis, not the PA, that is destroying Christian Churches and confiscating Christian land.
"Dale Crowley Jr., used his WFAX broadcast to tell Christians in the Washington area of how the Israelis have oppressed Christian Palestinians, uprooting them from their homes, vandalized Christian churches in the Holy Land, and otherwise made life difficult for Christian Palestinians and other Christian Arabs in the Middle East. "He was fired after 20 years with the radio station.
Even Robert Novak’s who is a supporter of Israel, in his May column: “Plea for Palestinian Christians.” In it he outlines a recent letter (and staff report) sent to the White House by Rep. Henry Hyde- who is also a supporter of Israel-, who has been raising awareness of the situation of the Christians in the Holy Land over the past couple of years. As the article lays out, Hyde raises concerns about the settlements and the separation barrier, particularly in the “Christian Triangle” area of Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour. Novak also cites Hyde’s concerns about Israeli settler actions in Jerusalem that, “‘undermine[s]’ the stability of Jerusalem as a future shared capital of Israel and Palestine, which is described as ‘vital’ to US interests in a two-state solution.”
In a letter to the White House Hyde wrote: “I cannot be blind when Israeli actions seem to go beyond the realm of legitimate security concerns and have negative consequences on communities and lands under their occupation.”
Prominent Christians in Gaza told me their friends and relatives, denied access to and from the enclave, want to emigrate. Sami El-Youssef, financial vice president of Bethlehem University, said he believes there is a conscious Israeli policy of getting rid of the Christian minority, whose discomfiture is more politically embarrassing for Israel than Muslim distress.
" I could not find a Catholic layman or prelate who complained of anti-Christian bias by Muslims." Robert Novak
We urge everyone to speak out, especially our Christian brothers to stand up and make our voice heard loud and clear.
Below is the link for the House of Representatives. Send your congressman a message, call his Washington Office and his State Office.
United States House of Representatives, 109th Congress, 2nd Session: Homepage
To join the Federation click here
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Prince Turki Al-Faisal stresses close Saudi-US ties in Louisville
June 13, 2006 SAUDI ARABIA-US
In June 7 remarks to the World Affairs Council of Kentucky in Louisville, Saudi Ambassador to the US Prince Turki Al-Faisal Prince Turki noted that Saudi Arabia has undergone tremendous economic, social and political development, and cited programs to improve education, municipal elections and $650 billion in investment opportunities as examples. He also encouraged American companies to take advantage of those investment opportunities in the Kingdom.
Prince Turki stressed the strength of the Saudi-US relationship, and highlighted similarities between the two peoples. “We’re plainspoken and straightforward, and we both believe in the importance of faith and family,” he said.
Interior Ministry confirms deaths of two Guantanamo detainees
On June 11, the Ministry of Interior said that Saudi authorities have been notified of the deaths of two Saudi citizens at the US military prison at Guantanamo Bay. They have been identified as Manie bin Shaman bin Turki Al-Habardi Al-Otaibi and Yasser Talal Abdullah Yahya Al-Zahrani. A spokesman said that official procedures are underway to repatriate the bodies of the two men.
New campaign to fight breast cancer in the Middle East
First Lady Laura Bush announced a major women’s health campaign in the Middle East – the US-Middle East Partnership for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research – in remarks at the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation 2006 Mission Conference in Arlington, Virginia June 13.
Organized by the State Department’s Office of Public Diplomacy and the Middle East Partnership Initiative, the partnership consists of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the MD Anderson Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins Medicine, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Partners will develop awareness and increase research, training and community outreach efforts.
Princess Nouf bint Fahd, the wife of the Saudi Ambassador to the US Prince Turki Al-Faisal, welcomed the campaign, and noted that such initiatives enhance ties between the Kingdom and the US.
EDUCATION
Ministry of Education to offer religious tolerance training for teachers
The Ministry of Education has announced that it will provide special training programs to promote religious tolerance for male and female Islamic Studies teachers, Asharq Al-Awsat reported June 8. One of the Ministry’s main priorities is increasing awareness and religious tolerance among teachers, Saad Al-Mady, the Ministry’s director general of training, told the newspaper. Some of the training programs will be available on the Internet.
OIL
Saudi Aramco releases key oil, gas figures for 2005
Saudi Aramco disclosed key energy figures for 2005. Recoverable crude oil and condensate reserves are estimated at 259.8 billion barrels. In 2005, average crude oil production per day was 9.1 million barrels. Annual crude oil production was 3.3 billion barrels. Gas reserves are estimated at 239.5 trillion standard cubic feet. Average gas production per day in 2005 was 7.87 billion standard cubic feet. Annual gas production was 2.87 trillion standard cubic feet.
FOREIGN POLICY
Cabinet condemns Israeli shelling of Gaza beach
At its weekly meeting June 12, the Cabinet condemned Israel’s shelling of the Beit-Lahia beach in Gaza, in which innocent Palestinians were killed or injured. Such actions undermine the peace process and are opposed to basic human values, the Cabinet said.
INDUSTRY
King Abdullah launches megaprojects at Jubail II
King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz launched several petrochemical and infrastructure megaprojects at the Jubail Industrial City II on June 11. The projects include new facilities at the King Fahd Industrial Port, the Saudi International Petrochemical Company’s Butanediol plant in addition to a number of projects that belong to the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu as well as private companies.
This material is distributed by Qorvis Communications, LLC on behalf of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC.
June 13, 2006 SAUDI ARABIA-US
In June 7 remarks to the World Affairs Council of Kentucky in Louisville, Saudi Ambassador to the US Prince Turki Al-Faisal Prince Turki noted that Saudi Arabia has undergone tremendous economic, social and political development, and cited programs to improve education, municipal elections and $650 billion in investment opportunities as examples. He also encouraged American companies to take advantage of those investment opportunities in the Kingdom.
Prince Turki stressed the strength of the Saudi-US relationship, and highlighted similarities between the two peoples. “We’re plainspoken and straightforward, and we both believe in the importance of faith and family,” he said.
Interior Ministry confirms deaths of two Guantanamo detainees
On June 11, the Ministry of Interior said that Saudi authorities have been notified of the deaths of two Saudi citizens at the US military prison at Guantanamo Bay. They have been identified as Manie bin Shaman bin Turki Al-Habardi Al-Otaibi and Yasser Talal Abdullah Yahya Al-Zahrani. A spokesman said that official procedures are underway to repatriate the bodies of the two men.
New campaign to fight breast cancer in the Middle East
First Lady Laura Bush announced a major women’s health campaign in the Middle East – the US-Middle East Partnership for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research – in remarks at the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation 2006 Mission Conference in Arlington, Virginia June 13.
Organized by the State Department’s Office of Public Diplomacy and the Middle East Partnership Initiative, the partnership consists of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the MD Anderson Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins Medicine, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Partners will develop awareness and increase research, training and community outreach efforts.
Princess Nouf bint Fahd, the wife of the Saudi Ambassador to the US Prince Turki Al-Faisal, welcomed the campaign, and noted that such initiatives enhance ties between the Kingdom and the US.
EDUCATION
Ministry of Education to offer religious tolerance training for teachers
The Ministry of Education has announced that it will provide special training programs to promote religious tolerance for male and female Islamic Studies teachers, Asharq Al-Awsat reported June 8. One of the Ministry’s main priorities is increasing awareness and religious tolerance among teachers, Saad Al-Mady, the Ministry’s director general of training, told the newspaper. Some of the training programs will be available on the Internet.
OIL
Saudi Aramco releases key oil, gas figures for 2005
Saudi Aramco disclosed key energy figures for 2005. Recoverable crude oil and condensate reserves are estimated at 259.8 billion barrels. In 2005, average crude oil production per day was 9.1 million barrels. Annual crude oil production was 3.3 billion barrels. Gas reserves are estimated at 239.5 trillion standard cubic feet. Average gas production per day in 2005 was 7.87 billion standard cubic feet. Annual gas production was 2.87 trillion standard cubic feet.
FOREIGN POLICY
Cabinet condemns Israeli shelling of Gaza beach
At its weekly meeting June 12, the Cabinet condemned Israel’s shelling of the Beit-Lahia beach in Gaza, in which innocent Palestinians were killed or injured. Such actions undermine the peace process and are opposed to basic human values, the Cabinet said.
INDUSTRY
King Abdullah launches megaprojects at Jubail II
King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz launched several petrochemical and infrastructure megaprojects at the Jubail Industrial City II on June 11. The projects include new facilities at the King Fahd Industrial Port, the Saudi International Petrochemical Company’s Butanediol plant in addition to a number of projects that belong to the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu as well as private companies.
This material is distributed by Qorvis Communications, LLC on behalf of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC.
Moroccan conference to be held in Washington D.C. June 24
Moroccan conference scheduled in Washington DC June 24
Fellow Moroccan Americans,
The latest American census report indicates that the number of Moroccans residing in the United States exceeds 100,000.
In order to wield a persuasive voice that can influence policies affecting our lives, both in the US and in Morocco, we must fully exploit our growing presence to empower our community socially, economically, and politically.
With that vision in mind, a group of dedicated Moroccan American volunteers took the initiative to create a framework through which our combined ideas and collective experiences would be employed toward the most pressing issues facing us, including our territorial integrity.
Accordingly, we have the pleasure of inviting you to join this process, which we believe holds great promises for our community and for our beloved country of origin. We strongly encourage you to take part in this historic effort, at its inception, by attending our upcoming seminar. We ask you to add your voice to those of us who have already committed to attend. Please come prepared to share your thoughts and suggestions in the seminar.
Let us create an environment that allows Moroccan Americans to want to think and talk with each other, and to effectively plan and execute future strategies in a collective way.
Please join us in this momentous event to realize our common vision. A detailed program of the event will be sent shortly.
When: Saturday, June 24, 2006 from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM
Where: Radisson Hotel, Old Town Alexandria
901 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria VA 22314
Telephone: (703) 683 6000
Fellow Moroccan Americans,
The latest American census report indicates that the number of Moroccans residing in the United States exceeds 100,000.
In order to wield a persuasive voice that can influence policies affecting our lives, both in the US and in Morocco, we must fully exploit our growing presence to empower our community socially, economically, and politically.
With that vision in mind, a group of dedicated Moroccan American volunteers took the initiative to create a framework through which our combined ideas and collective experiences would be employed toward the most pressing issues facing us, including our territorial integrity.
Accordingly, we have the pleasure of inviting you to join this process, which we believe holds great promises for our community and for our beloved country of origin. We strongly encourage you to take part in this historic effort, at its inception, by attending our upcoming seminar. We ask you to add your voice to those of us who have already committed to attend. Please come prepared to share your thoughts and suggestions in the seminar.
Let us create an environment that allows Moroccan Americans to want to think and talk with each other, and to effectively plan and execute future strategies in a collective way.
Please join us in this momentous event to realize our common vision. A detailed program of the event will be sent shortly.
When: Saturday, June 24, 2006 from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM
Where: Radisson Hotel, Old Town Alexandria
901 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria VA 22314
Telephone: (703) 683 6000
Palestinian billionaire creating American jobs while President Bush outsources
PALESTINIAN BILLIONAIRE CREATING JOBS IN AMERICA
WHILE THE PREZ IS OK WITH SHIPPING JOBS OVERSEAS
HUDSON BOOKS
244 Madison Ave. #254, New York, NY 10016
Contact: David Schwartz Ph: 201-236-9990
E-mail: ArborBooksSchwartz@yahoo.com
***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***
(NEW YORK, NY) -- Outsourcing American jobs overseas has had unwavering support by the Bush Administration, US Chamber of Commerce, and major business think tanks. Then why is a foreign billionaire dead set on creating jobs right here in America for Americans? Samih Darwazah, a Palestinian-born, self-made business tycoon, can't figure why American companies are laying off millions of workers and shipping their jobs out of the US.
It's especially puzzling because Darwazah's own company, Hikma Pharmaceutical, loves building in America and hiring American workers. Hikma has already built and is expanding one plant in Eatontown, New Jersey, and is planning a second one in the US. "America has the world’s best educated and disciplined work force," said Darwazah. "Americans may cost more to hire, but their productivity is far better. It’s a huge mistake to weaken the American work force. America could pay dearly for this in the long term." Forrester Research projects that 3 million more high-paying white-collar jobs will be sent overseas in less than a decade. Off-shoring (the term for outsourcing jobs overseas), once limited to manufacturing jobs, has now spread to all of America’s workforce. The Economic Policy Institute warns of "the very real risks off-shoring poses to [America's] living standards." This particular trend of globalization worries Darwazah, especially since it might weaken America and her position in the world. That may seem odd to some people who see any Arab or Palestinian as an enemy. But for Samih, it's not odd at all. It's downright personal. In fact, Darwazah himself is a prime example of America’s foreign-policy gone right. American aid led to his education in Jordan and his becoming a Fulbright Scholar. Samih and his family then came to America (legally), where he worked as a pharmaceutical rep. Eventually, he parlayed those US-provided opportunities into mega-success. Now he believes because America invested in his future that he should be investing in America’s.
"There may come a time in the near future that no job in America will be safe from this pernicious practice of off-shoring and that’s a shame," said Darwazah. "America is the world leader and a weak America makes for an unstable, dangerous world." American business schools, such as Harvard and Columbia, are now paying close attention to Darwazah and even study his business model. His book, "Building a Global Success," has been endorsed by the Deans of both schools. Hikma, listed on the London Stock Exhchange (HIK), has grown 35 percent a year, with annual sales over a billion dollars in 60 countries. Samih Darwazah, is the founder and chairman of Hikma Group, a billion-dollar multinational pharmaceutical company. He was a Fulbright Scholar and former Energy Minister in the Jordanian government under King Hussein. "Building a Global Success" is his first book.
-- 30 --
("Building a Global Success: The Story of Samih Darwazah and the Rise of Hikma" by Samih Darwazah ISBN: 0-9749860-9-7/Trade Paper -- $17.95ISBN: 0-9762502-2-5/Cloth -- $27.95218 pages; Illustrated; Hudson Books)
NOTE:
While American companies are outsourcing jobs overseas, Samih Darwazah, palestinian-born CEO of Hikma Pharmaceutical is bringing jobs back to America. His story is a combination of an Arab billionaire success story and American Foreign policy that actually worked in the middle east.
Darwazah benefitted from American education grants in the middle east, and later on served in the Jordanian government under King Hussein.
He now runs a multi-billion dollar global pharma company that has one plant already in the US, in New Jersey and is planning to open up a second one in the Maryland region.
END
WHILE THE PREZ IS OK WITH SHIPPING JOBS OVERSEAS
HUDSON BOOKS
244 Madison Ave. #254, New York, NY 10016
Contact: David Schwartz Ph: 201-236-9990
E-mail: ArborBooksSchwartz@yahoo.com
***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***
(NEW YORK, NY) -- Outsourcing American jobs overseas has had unwavering support by the Bush Administration, US Chamber of Commerce, and major business think tanks. Then why is a foreign billionaire dead set on creating jobs right here in America for Americans? Samih Darwazah, a Palestinian-born, self-made business tycoon, can't figure why American companies are laying off millions of workers and shipping their jobs out of the US.
It's especially puzzling because Darwazah's own company, Hikma Pharmaceutical, loves building in America and hiring American workers. Hikma has already built and is expanding one plant in Eatontown, New Jersey, and is planning a second one in the US. "America has the world’s best educated and disciplined work force," said Darwazah. "Americans may cost more to hire, but their productivity is far better. It’s a huge mistake to weaken the American work force. America could pay dearly for this in the long term." Forrester Research projects that 3 million more high-paying white-collar jobs will be sent overseas in less than a decade. Off-shoring (the term for outsourcing jobs overseas), once limited to manufacturing jobs, has now spread to all of America’s workforce. The Economic Policy Institute warns of "the very real risks off-shoring poses to [America's] living standards." This particular trend of globalization worries Darwazah, especially since it might weaken America and her position in the world. That may seem odd to some people who see any Arab or Palestinian as an enemy. But for Samih, it's not odd at all. It's downright personal. In fact, Darwazah himself is a prime example of America’s foreign-policy gone right. American aid led to his education in Jordan and his becoming a Fulbright Scholar. Samih and his family then came to America (legally), where he worked as a pharmaceutical rep. Eventually, he parlayed those US-provided opportunities into mega-success. Now he believes because America invested in his future that he should be investing in America’s.
"There may come a time in the near future that no job in America will be safe from this pernicious practice of off-shoring and that’s a shame," said Darwazah. "America is the world leader and a weak America makes for an unstable, dangerous world." American business schools, such as Harvard and Columbia, are now paying close attention to Darwazah and even study his business model. His book, "Building a Global Success," has been endorsed by the Deans of both schools. Hikma, listed on the London Stock Exhchange (HIK), has grown 35 percent a year, with annual sales over a billion dollars in 60 countries. Samih Darwazah, is the founder and chairman of Hikma Group, a billion-dollar multinational pharmaceutical company. He was a Fulbright Scholar and former Energy Minister in the Jordanian government under King Hussein. "Building a Global Success" is his first book.
-- 30 --
("Building a Global Success: The Story of Samih Darwazah and the Rise of Hikma" by Samih Darwazah ISBN: 0-9749860-9-7/Trade Paper -- $17.95ISBN: 0-9762502-2-5/Cloth -- $27.95218 pages; Illustrated; Hudson Books)
NOTE:
While American companies are outsourcing jobs overseas, Samih Darwazah, palestinian-born CEO of Hikma Pharmaceutical is bringing jobs back to America. His story is a combination of an Arab billionaire success story and American Foreign policy that actually worked in the middle east.
Darwazah benefitted from American education grants in the middle east, and later on served in the Jordanian government under King Hussein.
He now runs a multi-billion dollar global pharma company that has one plant already in the US, in New Jersey and is planning to open up a second one in the Maryland region.
END
Bridges TV offered as regular programming on Adephia Cable TV
Bridges TV Goes Mainstream on Adelphia Cable
The Network Is No Longer a Premium Service on Adelphia Cable
BUFFALO, N.Y., June 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridges TV announced today the addition of its network to Adelphia Digital Basic Cable service on channel 260. The network was formerly a premium service for $14.95 per month. Bridges TV is a 24x7 English language network focused on bridging the gap between Western and Muslim worlds.
Dr. Khalid Qazi, President of the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) in Western New York, stated, "By expanding Bridges TV to basic cable, Adelphia has shown genuine openness and outreach towards American Muslims giving them a voice in the mainstream media." Dr. Qazi added, "This is an excellent example of a partnership between the local community and the local cable. The best way for the community to appreciate Adelphia is for them to consider Adelphia as their preferred provider."
Bridges TV is now available on Adelphia's Digital Cable service in the City of Buffalo and surrounding suburbs of Western New York at no extra charge.
The expansion of Bridges TV to basic cable (digital) allows Adelphia Cable customers exclusive 24/7 access to news stories, current affairs and unique programming in English focused on bridging the gap between Western and Muslim worlds. Last month, the FBI & Muslim Town Hall on Bridges TV received significant media attention and viewership. The U.S. State Department plans similar television town halls on Bridges TV."The content on Bridges TV is unique with no duplication on the dial," said Nancy Sanders, the News Director of the network and a 20-year veteran of an ABC News affiliate.
Sanders added, "Americans can now get a completely unique perspective on issues from Danish Cartoons to Dubai Ports." After the uproar over the Danish cartoons about Prophet Muhammad, Bridges TV is airing the award winning film "Muhammad, Legacy of the Prophet" on Tuesday, June 20th at 8pm ET / 9pm PT. The film, produced by Michael Wolfe and Alex Kronemer, delivered record Nielsen ratings last year for PBS.
Bridges TV got started in 2005, after 10,000 people contributed $100 each to start a network that would give American Muslims a voice in the mainstream media. However, the network got launched as a subscription-based premium service. This limited the ability of the network to build bridges, as mainstream Americans were unlikely to watch a "Muslim" pay channel. "Today Adelphia has made the dream a reality," said Fayyaz Hussain, President of the Pakistan American Association in WNY.
Mr. Hussain added, "Our organization now plans a community-wide initiative to bring new Digital Cable and High- Speed Internet customers to Adelphia."
Last month MPAC awarded its prestigious annual Media Award to Mo Hassan, CEO of Bridges TV, for helping 8 million American Muslims gain a voice in the mainstream media. "When you give a disenfranchised people a voice, it creates a win-win for everyone," said Hassan.
About Bridges
TV Bridges TV is a 24/7 English language network available in nearly one million cable and satellite television households nationwide. The first of its kind, Bridges TV gives 300 million Americans an opportunity to engage in a dialog with 1.2 billion Muslims worldwide. For more information about Bridges TV, call 716-961-3109 or visit
http://www.bridgestv.com
About Adelphia CommunicationsAs one of the nation's leading cable companies, Adelphia serves more than 5.3 million residential customers nationwide, including over 300,000 customers throughout the Buffalo Niagara region. In addition to cable entertainment, Adelphia offers Digital Cable, High Definition TV (HDTV), Digital Video Recorder (DVR), High-Speed Internet (HSI) and OnDemand services.
Contact Information:Mo S. Hassan, CEO of Bridges TV, Tel: 716-308-6593; EM: mohassan@bridgestv.comEarl Wells, E-3 Communications, Tel: 716-854-8182This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.
Source: Bridges TV CONTACT: Mo S. Hassan, CEO of Bridges TV, +1-716-308-6593,mohassan@bridgestv.com, or Earl Wells of E-3 Communications, +1-716-854-8182Web site: http://www.bridgestv.com/
The Network Is No Longer a Premium Service on Adelphia Cable
BUFFALO, N.Y., June 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridges TV announced today the addition of its network to Adelphia Digital Basic Cable service on channel 260. The network was formerly a premium service for $14.95 per month. Bridges TV is a 24x7 English language network focused on bridging the gap between Western and Muslim worlds.
Dr. Khalid Qazi, President of the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) in Western New York, stated, "By expanding Bridges TV to basic cable, Adelphia has shown genuine openness and outreach towards American Muslims giving them a voice in the mainstream media." Dr. Qazi added, "This is an excellent example of a partnership between the local community and the local cable. The best way for the community to appreciate Adelphia is for them to consider Adelphia as their preferred provider."
Bridges TV is now available on Adelphia's Digital Cable service in the City of Buffalo and surrounding suburbs of Western New York at no extra charge.
The expansion of Bridges TV to basic cable (digital) allows Adelphia Cable customers exclusive 24/7 access to news stories, current affairs and unique programming in English focused on bridging the gap between Western and Muslim worlds. Last month, the FBI & Muslim Town Hall on Bridges TV received significant media attention and viewership. The U.S. State Department plans similar television town halls on Bridges TV."The content on Bridges TV is unique with no duplication on the dial," said Nancy Sanders, the News Director of the network and a 20-year veteran of an ABC News affiliate.
Sanders added, "Americans can now get a completely unique perspective on issues from Danish Cartoons to Dubai Ports." After the uproar over the Danish cartoons about Prophet Muhammad, Bridges TV is airing the award winning film "Muhammad, Legacy of the Prophet" on Tuesday, June 20th at 8pm ET / 9pm PT. The film, produced by Michael Wolfe and Alex Kronemer, delivered record Nielsen ratings last year for PBS.
Bridges TV got started in 2005, after 10,000 people contributed $100 each to start a network that would give American Muslims a voice in the mainstream media. However, the network got launched as a subscription-based premium service. This limited the ability of the network to build bridges, as mainstream Americans were unlikely to watch a "Muslim" pay channel. "Today Adelphia has made the dream a reality," said Fayyaz Hussain, President of the Pakistan American Association in WNY.
Mr. Hussain added, "Our organization now plans a community-wide initiative to bring new Digital Cable and High- Speed Internet customers to Adelphia."
Last month MPAC awarded its prestigious annual Media Award to Mo Hassan, CEO of Bridges TV, for helping 8 million American Muslims gain a voice in the mainstream media. "When you give a disenfranchised people a voice, it creates a win-win for everyone," said Hassan.
About Bridges
TV Bridges TV is a 24/7 English language network available in nearly one million cable and satellite television households nationwide. The first of its kind, Bridges TV gives 300 million Americans an opportunity to engage in a dialog with 1.2 billion Muslims worldwide. For more information about Bridges TV, call 716-961-3109 or visit
http://www.bridgestv.com
About Adelphia CommunicationsAs one of the nation's leading cable companies, Adelphia serves more than 5.3 million residential customers nationwide, including over 300,000 customers throughout the Buffalo Niagara region. In addition to cable entertainment, Adelphia offers Digital Cable, High Definition TV (HDTV), Digital Video Recorder (DVR), High-Speed Internet (HSI) and OnDemand services.
Contact Information:Mo S. Hassan, CEO of Bridges TV, Tel: 716-308-6593; EM: mohassan@bridgestv.comEarl Wells, E-3 Communications, Tel: 716-854-8182This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.
Source: Bridges TV CONTACT: Mo S. Hassan, CEO of Bridges TV, +1-716-308-6593,mohassan@bridgestv.com, or Earl Wells of E-3 Communications, +1-716-854-8182Web site: http://www.bridgestv.com/
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Israel denies role in Gaza beach massacre -- despite evidence
In typical Israeli military and government style to deny responsibility for anything negative, israel again claimed it was not responsible for the murder of civilians on a Gaza Beach earlier in the week.
Remarkably, no other weapon could have caused the damage or killed so many people at one time.
Onesided news reports quickly promoted Israel's denials, although many of the same news media in the United States rarely report in detail on Israel's alleged war crimes and violations of the Fourth Geneva Conventions.
One report:
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel on Tuesday denied responsibility for an explosion on a Gaza beach last week that killed seven Palestinian civilians and led militant group Hamas to call off a 16-month truce.
Defence Minister Amir Peretz told reporters the explosion was not caused by the Israeli Defence Forces but did not provide an explanation for what might have caused the blast, which killed several members of the same family.
Major General Meir Califi, who headed the army's investigation into Friday's incident, said Israel's shelling of Gaza had stopped by the time the beach explosion occurred.
"The chances that artillery fire hit that area at that time are nil," Califi told a news conference.
Hamas, which heads the Palestinian Authority after winning elections earlier this year, has blamed Israel for the explosion, which came on a day of heavy shelling of Gaza.
Israel frequently fires artillery rounds into the coastal strip in response to Palestinian rockets fired at Israel.
There has been a surge in violence between Israel and the Palestinians since the beach explosion, the immediate aftermath of which was caught on film and showed an 8-year-old girl desperately searching for her dead father.
An investigator from international rights group Human Rights Watch told reporters in Gaza earlier that evidence pointed to Israel having fired the shell, but he had to leave the door open to the possibility that the explosion was caused by something else.
END
Remarkably, no other weapon could have caused the damage or killed so many people at one time.
Onesided news reports quickly promoted Israel's denials, although many of the same news media in the United States rarely report in detail on Israel's alleged war crimes and violations of the Fourth Geneva Conventions.
One report:
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel on Tuesday denied responsibility for an explosion on a Gaza beach last week that killed seven Palestinian civilians and led militant group Hamas to call off a 16-month truce.
Defence Minister Amir Peretz told reporters the explosion was not caused by the Israeli Defence Forces but did not provide an explanation for what might have caused the blast, which killed several members of the same family.
Major General Meir Califi, who headed the army's investigation into Friday's incident, said Israel's shelling of Gaza had stopped by the time the beach explosion occurred.
"The chances that artillery fire hit that area at that time are nil," Califi told a news conference.
Hamas, which heads the Palestinian Authority after winning elections earlier this year, has blamed Israel for the explosion, which came on a day of heavy shelling of Gaza.
Israel frequently fires artillery rounds into the coastal strip in response to Palestinian rockets fired at Israel.
There has been a surge in violence between Israel and the Palestinians since the beach explosion, the immediate aftermath of which was caught on film and showed an 8-year-old girl desperately searching for her dead father.
An investigator from international rights group Human Rights Watch told reporters in Gaza earlier that evidence pointed to Israel having fired the shell, but he had to leave the door open to the possibility that the explosion was caused by something else.
END
Palestinians condemn new round of violence by Israel
11 Palestinians, Including a Man, His Two Children and Two paramedics, Killed and 30 Others Wounded in an IOF Air Strike on a Civilian Car inGaza
Palestinian Centre for Human Rights
PRESS RELEASE
Ref: 51/2006
Date: 13 June 2006
Time: 13:00 GMT
11 Palestinians, Including a Man, His Two Children and Two paramedics, Killed and 30 Others Wounded in an IOF Air Strike on a Civilian Car inGaza
On Tuesday noon, 13 June 2006, Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF)committed a new extra-judicial execution in Gaza City, which killed 11Palestinians, including 9 civilian bystanders. A man, his twochildren and two paramedics were among the victims. The targetedperson in this attack was a member of the Islamic Jihad. Investigations conducted by PCHR indicate that IOF aircrafts launched amissile at dozens of civilians, including paramedics, who gathered neara civilian car shortly after IOF aircrafts attacked it, targeting amember of the al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Jihad. Thus, the number of extra-judicial executions committed by IOF in thepast 4 days has mounted to 6, which have killed 18 Palestinians andhave wounded at least 40 others. This latest attack and other similarattacks have come as an implementation of a series of decisions takenby the Israeli Defense Minister Amir Peretz to escalate extra-judicialexecutions against Palestinian militants to stop launching locally maderockets at Israeli towns. Peretz has been also considering intensifyingmilitary operations in the Gaza Strip, whose victims are often unarmedcivilians.
According to investigations conducted by PCHR, at approximately 11:45on Tuesday, 13 June 2006, an IOF aircraft launched one missile at acivilian vehicle (Voks Wagen) that was traveling near Martyr Mohammedal-Durra Hospital in al-Tuffah neighborhood in the northeast of GazaCity. Two members of the al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of theIslamic Jihad, were traveling in the car. The missile directly hit thecar, killing the two members of the al-Quds Brigades: Hammoudaal-Wadiya; and Shawqi al-Saiqali. Palestinian civilians living in thearea gathered around the car and two paramedics from the nearbyhospital came to provide first medical aid.
Immediately, IOF aircraftslaunched another missile at the car, killing 10 civilians, including aman, his two children and the two paramedics:
1. Hussam Hamad, a paramedic;
2. ‘Adnan Daoud Taleb, 35;
3. Ashraf Farouq al-Mughrabi;
4. Hisham Ashraf al-Mughrabi, 7;
5. Maher Ashraf al-Mughrabi;
6. ‘Ali al-‘Omari;
7. Ibrahim al-Da’lees;
8. Rafeeq al-Mubayed; and
9. Mousa Nasrallah.
In addition, at least 30 other civilians, including a number ofchildren, were wounded; the wounds of 12 of them have been described bymedical sources as serious. PCHR strongly condemns this latest attack. PCHR is gravely concernedover the Israeli escalation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT). PCHR asserts that such crimes serve to escalate tension in theregion and threaten the lives of Palestinians.
PCHR calls upon the international community to immediately intervene to stop such crimes,and reiterates its calls for the High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 to meet their obligations to ensure protection for Palestinian civilians in the OPT.
-End-
Palestinian Centre for Human Rights
PRESS RELEASE
Ref: 51/2006
Date: 13 June 2006
Time: 13:00 GMT
11 Palestinians, Including a Man, His Two Children and Two paramedics, Killed and 30 Others Wounded in an IOF Air Strike on a Civilian Car inGaza
On Tuesday noon, 13 June 2006, Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF)committed a new extra-judicial execution in Gaza City, which killed 11Palestinians, including 9 civilian bystanders. A man, his twochildren and two paramedics were among the victims. The targetedperson in this attack was a member of the Islamic Jihad. Investigations conducted by PCHR indicate that IOF aircrafts launched amissile at dozens of civilians, including paramedics, who gathered neara civilian car shortly after IOF aircrafts attacked it, targeting amember of the al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Jihad. Thus, the number of extra-judicial executions committed by IOF in thepast 4 days has mounted to 6, which have killed 18 Palestinians andhave wounded at least 40 others. This latest attack and other similarattacks have come as an implementation of a series of decisions takenby the Israeli Defense Minister Amir Peretz to escalate extra-judicialexecutions against Palestinian militants to stop launching locally maderockets at Israeli towns. Peretz has been also considering intensifyingmilitary operations in the Gaza Strip, whose victims are often unarmedcivilians.
According to investigations conducted by PCHR, at approximately 11:45on Tuesday, 13 June 2006, an IOF aircraft launched one missile at acivilian vehicle (Voks Wagen) that was traveling near Martyr Mohammedal-Durra Hospital in al-Tuffah neighborhood in the northeast of GazaCity. Two members of the al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of theIslamic Jihad, were traveling in the car. The missile directly hit thecar, killing the two members of the al-Quds Brigades: Hammoudaal-Wadiya; and Shawqi al-Saiqali. Palestinian civilians living in thearea gathered around the car and two paramedics from the nearbyhospital came to provide first medical aid.
Immediately, IOF aircraftslaunched another missile at the car, killing 10 civilians, including aman, his two children and the two paramedics:
1. Hussam Hamad, a paramedic;
2. ‘Adnan Daoud Taleb, 35;
3. Ashraf Farouq al-Mughrabi;
4. Hisham Ashraf al-Mughrabi, 7;
5. Maher Ashraf al-Mughrabi;
6. ‘Ali al-‘Omari;
7. Ibrahim al-Da’lees;
8. Rafeeq al-Mubayed; and
9. Mousa Nasrallah.
In addition, at least 30 other civilians, including a number ofchildren, were wounded; the wounds of 12 of them have been described bymedical sources as serious. PCHR strongly condemns this latest attack. PCHR is gravely concernedover the Israeli escalation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT). PCHR asserts that such crimes serve to escalate tension in theregion and threaten the lives of Palestinians.
PCHR calls upon the international community to immediately intervene to stop such crimes,and reiterates its calls for the High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 to meet their obligations to ensure protection for Palestinian civilians in the OPT.
-End-
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Searching for Peace in the Middle East film now available
New film "Searching for Peace in the Middle East
The Foundation for Middle East Peace is proud to introduce Searching for Peace in the Middle East, a film by Landrum Bolling
This 30 minute DVD is a compelling portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by a veteran educator, Middle East expert, and peacemaker. Through the voices of Israelis and Palestinians, it reveals their hopes and fears and explores the issues that divide them. It also describes a common yearning for peace, pointing the way toward a resolution of this tragic conflict that would meet the deepest needs of both societies.
"... Searching for Peace in the Middle East is a superb presentation of the intricate relations betweenIsraelis and Palestinians, presented dramatically by people from both sides. Their combined proposals, clearly presented, comprise the only pathway to peace, with justice, in the Holy Land."
FormerPresident Jimmy Carter
The film features these Israelis and Palestinians:Hanan Ashrawi, Palestinian legislator; Rami Elhanan,Bereaved Parents Circle; Daniel Taubman, Israelidiplomat; Prof. Naomi Chazan, Hebrew University;Jonathan Kuttab, Palestinian lawyer; Gershon Baskin,Co-Director, IPCRI; Arik Ascherman, Rabbis for HumanRights; Gary Cooperberg, settler, Kiryat Arba; ColonelBenzi Gruber, IDF, retired, settler, Efrat; JadIsaac, environmentalist; Mahmoud Zahar, PalestinianForeign Minister.
Send for a free copy of Searching for Peace in theMiddle East. Email info@fmep.org, call (202)835-3650,or write to us at FMEP, 1761 N Street NW, Washington,D.C. 20036. Include your name, mailing and emailaddress. The DVD includes a study guide. You may also view Searching for Peace online. 1761 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
END
The Foundation for Middle East Peace is proud to introduce Searching for Peace in the Middle East, a film by Landrum Bolling
This 30 minute DVD is a compelling portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by a veteran educator, Middle East expert, and peacemaker. Through the voices of Israelis and Palestinians, it reveals their hopes and fears and explores the issues that divide them. It also describes a common yearning for peace, pointing the way toward a resolution of this tragic conflict that would meet the deepest needs of both societies.
"... Searching for Peace in the Middle East is a superb presentation of the intricate relations betweenIsraelis and Palestinians, presented dramatically by people from both sides. Their combined proposals, clearly presented, comprise the only pathway to peace, with justice, in the Holy Land."
FormerPresident Jimmy Carter
The film features these Israelis and Palestinians:Hanan Ashrawi, Palestinian legislator; Rami Elhanan,Bereaved Parents Circle; Daniel Taubman, Israelidiplomat; Prof. Naomi Chazan, Hebrew University;Jonathan Kuttab, Palestinian lawyer; Gershon Baskin,Co-Director, IPCRI; Arik Ascherman, Rabbis for HumanRights; Gary Cooperberg, settler, Kiryat Arba; ColonelBenzi Gruber, IDF, retired, settler, Efrat; JadIsaac, environmentalist; Mahmoud Zahar, PalestinianForeign Minister.
Send for a free copy of Searching for Peace in theMiddle East. Email info@fmep.org, call (202)835-3650,or write to us at FMEP, 1761 N Street NW, Washington,D.C. 20036. Include your name, mailing and emailaddress. The DVD includes a study guide. You may also view Searching for Peace online. 1761 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
END
DAIR Condemns Israeli massacre of Palestinian civilians
The PLO condemns the Israeli Occupation Crimes and demands International protection to the Palestinian Civilians
On Friday, June 9th 2006, another Israeli massacre was committed against the Palestinian civilians in Gaza strip; 7 of the 10 victims are members of the same family, among those are 4 children and a 5-month-old toddler. The Israeli tanks shelled the shore where the family was resorting at Beit-Lahia's beach in the weekend.
During the past 24 hours, 17 martyrs died as a result of Israeli extra-judicial assassinations in Gaza Strip; in the past six years the number of martyrs escalated to 4100 Palestinian, 800 children are among those.
The above crime is just an episode in the series of the ongoing Israeli massacres against the Palestinians to impose the Israeli Prime minister's, Ehud Olmert, unilateral solutions; the economic siege against the Palestinians is as harmful as the military war.
The Department of Arab and International Relations /PLO condemns the targeting of the Palestinian civilians and denounce the American Official stand, which contradicts with all international resolutions and laws; many other states shyly denounced the Israeli crimes.
The Israeli state terror should be stopped, and that can only be done if and when:
- The International society acts according to its human responsibilities and provide protection for the Palestinian people.
- The UN Security Council issues a clear statement to denounce the Israeli massacre.
- Similar stands are expected from the side of all friends and solidarity movements from all over the world
The Department of Arab and International Relations
PLO
Ramallah –Palestine
June 10th 2006
END
On Friday, June 9th 2006, another Israeli massacre was committed against the Palestinian civilians in Gaza strip; 7 of the 10 victims are members of the same family, among those are 4 children and a 5-month-old toddler. The Israeli tanks shelled the shore where the family was resorting at Beit-Lahia's beach in the weekend.
During the past 24 hours, 17 martyrs died as a result of Israeli extra-judicial assassinations in Gaza Strip; in the past six years the number of martyrs escalated to 4100 Palestinian, 800 children are among those.
The above crime is just an episode in the series of the ongoing Israeli massacres against the Palestinians to impose the Israeli Prime minister's, Ehud Olmert, unilateral solutions; the economic siege against the Palestinians is as harmful as the military war.
The Department of Arab and International Relations /PLO condemns the targeting of the Palestinian civilians and denounce the American Official stand, which contradicts with all international resolutions and laws; many other states shyly denounced the Israeli crimes.
The Israeli state terror should be stopped, and that can only be done if and when:
- The International society acts according to its human responsibilities and provide protection for the Palestinian people.
- The UN Security Council issues a clear statement to denounce the Israeli massacre.
- Similar stands are expected from the side of all friends and solidarity movements from all over the world
The Department of Arab and International Relations
PLO
Ramallah –Palestine
June 10th 2006
END
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Palestinians-Israelis at Haifa University study impact of Wall -- highlight tensions in Israel between Jewish and non-Jewish citizens
At Haifa University: Study day on separation walls between Arabs and Jews in Israel
'Separation Walls between Arabs and Jews in Israel' was the conference held on Sunday, June 4 at Haifa University, organised by the Arab Association for Human Rights (HRA) and the Jewish-Arab Centre for Middle Eastern studies at Haifa University.
The study day dealt with the political, legal and psychological aspects of the separation walls between Arab and Jewish communities in three mixed cities and neighbourhoods in Israel and their impacts on all aspects of an Arab citizen's life.
The study day was opened with words from Professor Arye Rattner, Dean of Social Sciences at Haifa University and from the Chairman of the HRA, Adv. Salim Wakeem.
Adv. Wakeem spoke about the HRA's activities and emphasised the importance of cooperation between NGOs and academia. Dan Bavly, Chairman of the Board at the Jewish-Arab Centre, Dr. Rassem Khamaisi, a lecturer from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Haifa University, Hermann Bünz, Director of Friedrich Ebert Stiftung in Israel, all offered welcoming remarks. Finally, Dr. Faisal Azaiza spoke, emphasising the importance of open public discussion on such issues, and its particular relevance to academia.
The first session of the conference was 'Walls and their Legal and Psychological Ramifications', and also involved the participants analysing the walls in geographical and political contexts. Discussion brought forth how the phenomenon of wall construction between Arab and Jewish towns is on the rise, and how through local Jewish planning institutions, walls are constructed without Arab representation in the decision-making process.
The HRA's Director, Mohammad Zeidan, reviewed the separation walls in three areas in Israel – Lid, Ramleh, and between Jisr al-Zarqa and Qesariya, which were addressed in the Behind the Walls report published in December 2005, while also elaborating on the violations of human rights and the rights of the citizen. He said, "The Jewish majority sees the minority as a threat and as an unwelcome people. The danger here is that in some cases the building of the walls was a government initiative – in making the decision and funding the construction. This, if not stopped, will be governmental policy in dealing with the Palestinian minority in the country". Zeidan also added that the walls' construction would increase the feeling of discrimination based on ethnicity and will impose separation on the ground. He stressed that building walls does not solve problems but only accentuate them.
Dr Yusuf Jabareen, from the Faculty of Law at the universities of Haifa and Tel Aviv, analysed the recent court decision on separation wall construction within Israel. He said, "The walls separate between Jews and Arabs and are therefore racial walls. They are forced by the strong side on the weak one. This leads to the violation of the rights of the minority. And there is a clear message in this – 'We don't want you; we here, you there'."
Mouna Karkabi, from the Department of Psychology at Haifa University, said there was a lot of psychological damage on Arab citizens as a result of the wall's construction, effecting crucial decisions in an Arab citizen's life – his educational and career choices, as well his place of residence.
The second session, chaired by Dr Deborah Shmueli from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Haifa University, was 'Separation Walls from Theory to Reality: Environmental Aspects'. Professor Nurit Kliot, also from the same department, Dr Tobi Fenster, from the Department of Geography at Tel Aviv University, and Dr. Rassem Khamaisi all participated in this session. Dr. Khamaisi reviewed the impacts of the separation walls in the public sphere from the technical and planning aspects.
The final session was the 'Round Table: Separation or Cooperation in the Shadow of the Walls' headed by Hussein Abu Hussein, Board Member of the HRA. Sheikh Murad 'Ammash, head of the Jisr al-Zarqa municipality, testified to the negative effects on his community and that of neighbouring Qesariya as a result of the earth embankment, and how it would affect the neighbourhood's future economical development and construction. MK 'Abbas Zakour offered his personal perspective on the current status of relations between Arabs and Jews in the country, with special focus on his home town, the mixed city of 'Akka. He reiterated that the idea of building separation walls would only increase the discrimination and tension between Arabs and Jews. Dr. Edy Kaufman, from the Centre for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland, spoke about similar situations of separation in the world and called to oppose or struggle against the idea of separation on national background.
The comments made by Professor Arnon Sofer, from the Geography Department at Haifa University, whose take on the Arab minority in Israel is well known, made for a lively discussion throughout the conference. The participation of the speakers and the public made for a particularly engaging study day that helped introduce the issue of separation walls to academia and helped foster new ideas on the same.
For further information, please contact us directly:
Mohammad Zeidan, Director
Arab Association for Human Rights (HRA)
PO Box 215, Nazareth 16101, Israel
Telephone: +972 (0)4 6561923
Fax: +972 (0)4 6564934
Email: mzeidan@arabhra.org; hra1@arabhra.org
'Separation Walls between Arabs and Jews in Israel' was the conference held on Sunday, June 4 at Haifa University, organised by the Arab Association for Human Rights (HRA) and the Jewish-Arab Centre for Middle Eastern studies at Haifa University.
The study day dealt with the political, legal and psychological aspects of the separation walls between Arab and Jewish communities in three mixed cities and neighbourhoods in Israel and their impacts on all aspects of an Arab citizen's life.
The study day was opened with words from Professor Arye Rattner, Dean of Social Sciences at Haifa University and from the Chairman of the HRA, Adv. Salim Wakeem.
Adv. Wakeem spoke about the HRA's activities and emphasised the importance of cooperation between NGOs and academia. Dan Bavly, Chairman of the Board at the Jewish-Arab Centre, Dr. Rassem Khamaisi, a lecturer from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Haifa University, Hermann Bünz, Director of Friedrich Ebert Stiftung in Israel, all offered welcoming remarks. Finally, Dr. Faisal Azaiza spoke, emphasising the importance of open public discussion on such issues, and its particular relevance to academia.
The first session of the conference was 'Walls and their Legal and Psychological Ramifications', and also involved the participants analysing the walls in geographical and political contexts. Discussion brought forth how the phenomenon of wall construction between Arab and Jewish towns is on the rise, and how through local Jewish planning institutions, walls are constructed without Arab representation in the decision-making process.
The HRA's Director, Mohammad Zeidan, reviewed the separation walls in three areas in Israel – Lid, Ramleh, and between Jisr al-Zarqa and Qesariya, which were addressed in the Behind the Walls report published in December 2005, while also elaborating on the violations of human rights and the rights of the citizen. He said, "The Jewish majority sees the minority as a threat and as an unwelcome people. The danger here is that in some cases the building of the walls was a government initiative – in making the decision and funding the construction. This, if not stopped, will be governmental policy in dealing with the Palestinian minority in the country". Zeidan also added that the walls' construction would increase the feeling of discrimination based on ethnicity and will impose separation on the ground. He stressed that building walls does not solve problems but only accentuate them.
Dr Yusuf Jabareen, from the Faculty of Law at the universities of Haifa and Tel Aviv, analysed the recent court decision on separation wall construction within Israel. He said, "The walls separate between Jews and Arabs and are therefore racial walls. They are forced by the strong side on the weak one. This leads to the violation of the rights of the minority. And there is a clear message in this – 'We don't want you; we here, you there'."
Mouna Karkabi, from the Department of Psychology at Haifa University, said there was a lot of psychological damage on Arab citizens as a result of the wall's construction, effecting crucial decisions in an Arab citizen's life – his educational and career choices, as well his place of residence.
The second session, chaired by Dr Deborah Shmueli from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Haifa University, was 'Separation Walls from Theory to Reality: Environmental Aspects'. Professor Nurit Kliot, also from the same department, Dr Tobi Fenster, from the Department of Geography at Tel Aviv University, and Dr. Rassem Khamaisi all participated in this session. Dr. Khamaisi reviewed the impacts of the separation walls in the public sphere from the technical and planning aspects.
The final session was the 'Round Table: Separation or Cooperation in the Shadow of the Walls' headed by Hussein Abu Hussein, Board Member of the HRA. Sheikh Murad 'Ammash, head of the Jisr al-Zarqa municipality, testified to the negative effects on his community and that of neighbouring Qesariya as a result of the earth embankment, and how it would affect the neighbourhood's future economical development and construction. MK 'Abbas Zakour offered his personal perspective on the current status of relations between Arabs and Jews in the country, with special focus on his home town, the mixed city of 'Akka. He reiterated that the idea of building separation walls would only increase the discrimination and tension between Arabs and Jews. Dr. Edy Kaufman, from the Centre for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland, spoke about similar situations of separation in the world and called to oppose or struggle against the idea of separation on national background.
The comments made by Professor Arnon Sofer, from the Geography Department at Haifa University, whose take on the Arab minority in Israel is well known, made for a lively discussion throughout the conference. The participation of the speakers and the public made for a particularly engaging study day that helped introduce the issue of separation walls to academia and helped foster new ideas on the same.
For further information, please contact us directly:
Mohammad Zeidan, Director
Arab Association for Human Rights (HRA)
PO Box 215, Nazareth 16101, Israel
Telephone: +972 (0)4 6561923
Fax: +972 (0)4 6564934
Email: mzeidan@arabhra.org; hra1@arabhra.org
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Israeli violations of Palestinian Rights continues, DAIR Report
Israeli violations of Palestinian Rights, May 2006
Report of the Palestine Liberation Organization
Report of the Department of Arab and International Relations (DAIR)
The Palestinian National Dialogue
On the 25th May, the Palestinian National dialogue launched its sessions in Gaza and Ramallah at the same time, with the intention to reach a formula that might help the Palestinian people to find a way out of the current catastrophic situation. The dialogue that included all Palestinian political identities is hoped to save the Palestinian people and their national project that are now facing the most vicious Israeli imposed unilateral on ground steps.
The national reconciliation paper proposed by leaders of the major Palestinian groups in the Israeli jails forms the bases for the ongoing dialogue as it initiates a comprehensive political vision that acceptable by most parties.
In his speech before the meeting, President Mahmoud Abbas reaffirmed that the meeting had to conclude their sessions and consultations within ten days - according to his words, "time is running very fast and we don't have the luxury of going on talking indefinitely". He warned that the Israeli side is investing every minute to impose their unilateral plans – that would destroy all hopes to establish an independent viable Palestinian state within the 1967 territories.
A genuine applicable national dialogue would no doubt lead to national unity and to the establishment of a strong protective shield to the Palestinians and their national project in the foundation of their independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. This sacred goal required high standard of responsibility from the different parties involved, and a true well from their part to put the general and national concerns on top of the specific and individual interests of each of them, and most of all it need a firm stand against those who would take their differences and disputes out to the streets.
The dialogue must come to an agreement between the parties as soon as possible. Points of agreement should take into consideration the highest Palestinian national interests and aspirations in freedom and independence.
The clock works against us, and we demand a prompt
clear and specific dialogue away from sophistications, complexities and superiorities.
-Summary of the Israeli violations against Palestinian Human rights (May 2006)
-By the time that the Palestinians are almost facing a starvation due to the Israeli and the International society siege imposed on them; the IOF expanded its military invasions to the Occupied Palestinian territories and committed more war crimes.
-During May 2006, the IOF continued its incursions against the Palestinian areas:
*44 Palestinians, including 2 children, 12 of the victims were extra-judicially executed by IOF;
*134 Palestinian civilians, 5 members of the International Solidarity movement(ISM) and 5 journalists were injured by IOF;
*229 Palestinian civilians were arrested by IOF;
*10 Palestinian houses were evacuated and transformed by IOF into military sites.
*1 house was demolished by IOF;
*55 olive & fig trees were uprooted;
*7 dunums were expropriated to construct the Apartheid Segregation Wall;
-During the period between 29/9/2000 and 31/5/2006, the IOF killed 4087 Palestinians; 792 of the martyrs were children, 273 were women, 348 were members of the Palestinian National Forces, 415 were assassinated in cold blood, 138 of the martyrs were ill and passed away on Israeli Military checkpoints, 58 were killed by Jewish settlers, 6 were foreign volunteers from the ISM, 9 of the martyrs were journalists and 220 are athletes.
-During the same period, 36,060 Palestinians were injured, 7500 were children and young men who were left with permanent disabilities. 40,000 Palestinians were detained Palestinians, 9400 are still in the Israeli jails. Total number of the affected Palestinian houses is 65,443; 7,682 of which were demolished leaving thousands of the Palestinian citizens with no shelter.
-Agricultural Substance is the main resource of living for the Palestinians; but the Israeli measurements affected it severely; by uprooting, burning and sweeping away more than a million tree. Since 29/3/2003, the IOF have expropriated more than 295,542 dunums; to construct new settlements, expand the old ones and build the Apartheid Segregation Wall.
-The IOF enhanced its policy of closures and checkpoints preventing the Palestinian workers from the movement between the Palestinian areas and the access to their jobs; due to this the unemployment Palestinians number increased to 272,000 and poverty is estimated to be extended to 72% of the Palestinian society.
**
1- Assassination in Cold Blood:
1/5/2006: The IOF killed the 41-years old female Palestinian civilian 'Itaf Azzalat, , in the city of Tulkarem and wounded her two daughters (Ahlam & Ansam Yossef).
4/5/2006: The IOF killed Mohammed Abu Mouhsen, 40-years old, from the city of Tubas; Abu Mouhsen was driving his taxi in the area of Wadi Al-Bathan checkpoint, along Nablus- Tubas main road.
5/5/2006: The Israeli army killed Mohammed Mustafa al Qutub in the city of
Nablus.
5/5/2006: The IOF extra-judicially killed 5 Palestinian civilians in an air raid to Rafah: Jum’ah Dughmush, Mahmoud Dughmush, Hamadeh Dughmush, Saeb Dughmush and Khaled Deeb Wakid.
7/5/2006: An Israeli tank shell hit the area where Hassan Al-Shafi'ee, 55-years old, and Mosa Sawarkeh, 60-years old, were planting the land; the both Palestinian were instantly killed.
12/5/2006: The IOF killed Raed Tubeileh, 28-years old, from the city of Nablus; Tubeileh was seriously wounded and evacuated by an ambulance but the IOF prevented the ambulance from continuing its way towards the hospital till the injured man died.
15/5/2006: During a raid into Qabatya village, southeast of Jenin, the IOF killed : Elias Khairi Mohammed al-Ashqar, 26-year-old, Mo’tassem ‘Ali Baheej Ja’ar, 25-year-old, Tha’er Subhi Sadiq Hanaisha, 23-year-old, and his 21-year-old brother Mujahed and Jihad Kameel, 21-year-old. Ali Jabareen, 22-year-old, was shot dead, while he was on duty guarding the headquarters of the Palestinian General Intelligence Services,by the IOF inside the city of Jenin.
17/5/2006: During an IOF raid to the city of Nablus, the IOF killed Othman Sadakah, 26-year-old, and Mustafa Abdul Ghani, 22-year-old.
17/5/2006: The 73-year-old man, Mushref Al-Mubaslat, died of a heart attack in the city of Nablus; Al-Mubaslat was unable to reach the hospital because of the severe restrictions on movement the IOF is being imposing in the city.
20/5/2006: An IOF aircraft launched its missiles at a civilian car that was traveling in the city of Gaza. The Palestinian civilian Mohammed Al-Dahdouh ,25-year-old, who had been traveling in the car was instantly killed; another civilian car was hit causing the death of the grandmother Na'iemeh Amin, 50-year-old, the daughter Hanan Amin, 25-year-old,and her grandson Mohannad Amin, 5-year-old.
21/5/2006: The IOF killed Aysheh Abu Emsallam, 48-year-old, in Balata refugee camp /Nablus; Abu Emsallah was shot dead while looking outside of her house window.
23/5/2006: The IOF soldiers at Al-Sheikh Sa'ed checkpoint /Occupied Jerusalem beat to death the 51-year-old man Ahmed Mohesein from Abu Deis.
24/5/2006: The IOF invaded of Ramallah the killing 3 civilians and 1 Palestinian security officer: Aysar Jameel Abu ‘Arrah, a Palestinian National Security officer, Meelad ‘Atallah Abu Al- ‘Arayes, 20-year-old, Khaled Ja’far Yassin, 22-year-old, and Ghaleb Rabah; another 57 Palestinian civilians were injured.
24/5/2006: The Palestinian farmer Omer Abu Radeh, 43-year-old, was killed by an Israeli tank shell while working in his farm in Jabalia Refugee Camp /Gaza.
25/5/2006: Ala' Hujeir, 20-year-old, died of sustained wound; the IOF wounded Hujeir in April 2006.
25/5/2006: An Israeli tank shell hit Al-Kasim family house in Beit Lahia /Gaza; Mustafa Kasim, 19-year-old, Mohammed Kasim, 18-year-old, and Arafeh Sarandeh, 15-year-old, were instantly killed. Another 7 members of the family were injured.
30/5/2006: The IOF killed Mohammed Matar, 20-year-old, Yousef Al-Ma'zeh, 24-year-old, Abdul Rahman Abu Shanab, 27-year-old, and Sabri Abu Iqleeq, 23-year-old, in Al-Shati' Refugee Camp /Gaza Strip.
30/5/2006: The IOF opened its fire during an invasion to the town of Qabatieh /Jenin; Tareq Zakarneh, 24-year-old, was instantly killed.
30/5/2006: The IOF extra-judicially killed Osamah Al-Namari, 29-year-old, from the town of Anabta /Tulkarem.
30/5/2006: Hani Al-Saqqa, 24-year-old, was killed during an IOF invasion to Balata Refugee Camp /Nablus.
**
2-The Apartheid Segregation Wall (ASW)
1/5/2006: Tens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli solidarity activists participated in replanting 200 dunums, the IOA intend to confiscate, in the village of Om Salmoneh /Bethlehem.
4/5/2006: The IOF issued a military order to confiscate 7 dunums of land belonging to the town of Al-Samou' /Hebron to construct a military post.
7/5/2006: The IOF bulldozers uprooted 55 olive and fig trees, which were planted 50 years ago in the village of Rameen /Tulkarem.
7/5/2006: The Israeli Peace Block said: "The ASW is separating between members of the same family; students and teachers and their schools. It is the reason behind closing 3 of the Arab schools; besides transforming the neighborhood of Al-Ram into a big jail that used to be a vital place".
9/5/2006: The settlers of "Ariel" settlement /Nablus freed tens of wild pigs in the area between the city of Salfeet and the village of Iskaka in the West Bank; an attempt to ruin the agricultural crops and expose the Palestinians over there to danger. Another group of the pigs was released in May 16th.
10/5/2006: The settlers of "Rot Yashai" settling post inside the city of Hebron expropriated a dunum of land in Tal Al-Rameedeh area inside the old city of Hebron; the land belong to the Palestinian family "Abu Haikal".
11/5/2006: The IOF swept away 20 dunums from a farm planted with almond and olive trees in the town of Al-Kararah /Khan Younis.
12/5/2006: The IOF wounded Adeeba Suleiman Husni, 60-year-old, by a rubber-coated metal bullet to the head; while chasing the demonstrators who were protesting to the construction of the Wall in Bal'ien village.
12/5/2006: About 500 Palestinian civilians and 60 international and Israeli solidarity activists organized a peaceful demonstration in Bal’ein village, west of Ramallah, in protest to the construction of the Wall. IOF fired rubber-coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the demonstrators. Nine demonstrators and a journalist were wounded; Jamal al-‘Aarouri, 40-year-old, a photographer from the local daily al-Ayyam, was wounded by a rubber coated metal bullet to the hand.
13/5/2006: About 1500 Palestinian civilian and international and Israeli solidarity activists organized a peaceful demonstration near the entrance of Dahiat al-Barid area, north of the occupied Jerusalem, in protest to the construction of the Wall in the area. IOF fired dozens of tear gas canisters at the demonstrators, violently beat a number of them and arrested a number of them.
13/5/2006: SFS burned a fire in Al Qanouni stone quarry near Huwwara checkpoint and burnt a number of barracks therein.
.
17/5/2006: The Israeli newspaper "Ha'aretz" affirmed that the IOF had finished the construction of 336 km of the ASW, 42% of the West Bank; ASW length is about 790 km and extends through the Palestinian Lands.
27/5/2006: SFS burnt 4 trucks belonging to Palestinian citizens from the town of Howara /Nablus; an IOF curfew was imposed on the town.
**
3- Israeli Checkpoints and Barriers:
1/5/2006: The Israeli army had assaulted and beaten Su’ad ‘Ilayyan Al-Madani, 65-year-old, in Al-Karantina neighborhood /Hebron, detained her, and prevented an ambulance from transporting the injured woman to hospital.
2/5/2005: The IOF soldiers positioned at the checkpoints in the Jordan valley are imposing a new regulation that allows certain people from the west bank only to enter the area – the regulation in known by "the ID and place of the original registration", which denies the access of Palestinian civilians and employees from the West Bank to the Jordan Valley.
2/5/2006: The IOF soldiers beat the 12-year-old disable boy Mohammed Karariyeh, in a flying checkpoint on the road between Jenin and Qalqilyeh
2/5/2006: The IOF soldiers detained tens of the Palestinian civilian cars in 'Arabeh valley on Jenin-Nablus road /Jenin; the Palestinians were forced to leave their cars and take off their clothes in order to be searched by the IOF soldiers.
2/5/2006: The IOF continued to close Al-Hamra checkpoint set up on the Jericho-Nablus road, denying civilian access, except for farmers holding Jericho-issued IDs; claiming that it is a military closed area.
8/5/2006: The IOF tightened its siege around the district of Salfit, set up 4 flying checkpoint on the entrances of the Palestinian villages Jam'een, Bidia and Brokeen; denying civilian access.
8/5/2006: The IOF set up a sudden flying checkpoint on the northern entrance of Tubas city /Jenin, stopped and searched the Palestinians civilian cars and detained the Palestinian civilians for many hours.
10/5/2006: The IOF soldiers detained a bus transforming 20 Palestinian children on their way to the kindergarten in the village of Al-Bathan for more than 4 hours.
15/5/2006: The IOF soldiers closed Za'tara checkpoint /Nablus and denied civilian access to the road to Ramallah city.
12/5/2006: The 42-year-old Palestinian Omar Al-Malhi passes away due to a heart attack on Shu'fat's Camp checkpoint /Occupied Jerusalem; the IOF soldiers prevented the ambulance from evacuating Al-Malhi to a hospital in the occupied Jerusalem.
**
4- Arrests and Jails
1/5/2005:Family of the female Palestinian prisoner Itaf E'layan blead to legal institutions International and Local human rights organizations to enforce pressure on the Israeli Government in order to release their daughter Itaf with her 19-month-old baby; Itaf has been detained as an administrative prisoner and the IOF renewed the sentence lately.
2/5/2006: The IOF arrested the 45-year-old Palestinian female Rakiyah Lubadah from the city of Nablus for the fourth time, in an attempt to practice pressure on her wanted son to the IOF in order to handle himself; an Israeli policy that is used always with the mothers of the wanted Palestinians to the IOF.
10/5/2006: The Negev jail administration forced 36 Palestinian prisoners to be searched naked in a humiliated way, claiming that the prisoners obtain prohibited materials.
10/5/2006: More 9000 Palestinian male and female prisoners in the Israeli Jails started a food strike, to protest on the isolation policy the IO jails Authorities are using with many Palestinian prisoners.
16/5/2006: The IOF arrested 760 Palestinian workers inside Israel, claiming that the Palestinians didn't obtain the required permissions to be and work in Israel.
**
5- House Demolition:
3/5/2006: The IOF issued two military orders to demolish a house belonging to Issa Al-Jabareen from the town of Sa'eer /Hebron and an agricultural kiosk belonging to Isma'il Al-Rajabi in Jabal Johar /Hebron.
9/5/2006: The IOA raided the town of Beit Hanina and demolished a 2- storey house belonging to two brothers from Al-Ja'bari family, claiming that it was built without the required license.
10/5/2006: The IOA handed a warning to demolish the house belonging to the Palestinian civilian Ratib Badawi, under the claim that the house was built without an Israeli building permission.
24/5/2006: The IOF bulldozers demolished a 150 meter square building belonging to Abdullah Abbas, a land wall and an under construction kiosk belonging to Mohammed Muheisen from the village of Al-Funduq /Qalqilyeh.
25/5/2006: The IOF demolished a garage for fixing cars and selling cars' parts belonging to Habis and Ayman Al-Alameh in the town of Beit Ommar /Hebron.
**
6- Violations against Education and Health Institutions
2/5/2006: The IOF invaded Beit Sahoor medical centre and the Deer Al-Roum Al-Catholic medical centre in the town of Beit Sahoor /Bethlehem; they ruined some of centers property.
2/5/2006: The IOF bulldozers demolished a part of Howwara Secondary school wall /Nablus, continued to close the dust road in front of the school to put more pressure on the students.
12/5/2006: The IOF soldiers positioned at ‘Atara checkpoint detained for two hours a civilian vehicle transporting Nour ad Din Taleb ‘Arar, an ill 2-month-old child, to Ramallah Public Hospital for medical treatment.
13/5/2006: SFS attacked the Palestinian students in Al-Shuhada' street and Wadi Al-Haseen neighborhood using spoiled eggs and empty glass bottles in the city of Hebron.
13/5/2006: The IOF raided the village of Sur Bahir as well as raided the offices of the Cultural Forum during the launching of a book fair entitled “Supporting Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him”. The IOF also confiscated computers, cassettes, and books from the book fair.
13/5/2006: The IOF raided the village of ‘Anata /Occupied Jerusalem, raided the village’s Girls School, and fired tear gas grenades, injuring 1 female student after a tear gas grenade hit her in the head. The female student was transported to hospital for medical treatment.
27/5/2006: The IOF opened fire towards a Palestinian ambulance transporting to hospital a pregnant female civilian, Najah Al-Sadiq, who was in labour. The Israeli army also forced the ambulance to stop and the Al-Sadeq to step out the ambulance.
**
7-Religious Violations:
7/5/2006: The IOF closed the Ibrahimi Mosque in the Old city of Hebron, prevented the access of the Palestinian worshippers to the Mosque under the claim that the area around the Mosque in a closed military area.
14/5/2006: The IOF prevented Palestinian civilians under 30 years of age from accessing and performing prayers at the Ibrahimi Mosque in the old city of Hebron.
23/5/2006: The IOF invaded Anata Mosque / Occupied Jerusalem, detained and searched the worshippers.
**
8- Press:-
1/5/2006: The IOF soldiers beat the Palestinian journalists Hazem Badir and Abdul Hafeeth Al-Hashlamoon in the city of Hebron.
13/5/2006: The IOF soldiers on Eretz Checkpoint searched a female member of the ISM "Kareen Winger" from Switzerland, naked under the excuse of security reasons.
15/5/2006: The IOF injured the camera man of Associated Press Sameer Abu Al-Rub with a pullet in the back; Abu Al-Rub was covering an IOF invasion to the town of Qabatiyah /Jenin.
16/5/2006: The IOF detained the camera man of the Palestinian press agency "Wafa" Ahman Mizhir while doing his job in the city of Bethlehem.
30/5/2006: The journalist Yahia Al-Madhoun in Al-Shabab radio and the cameraman Mahmoud Al-Mabayed of Ramattan agency for news, were injured during covering the news in Gaza Strip.
**
9- After 58 years from the Palestinian Nakba, The refugee problem is still there
The 15th of May was a special day for the Palestinians in and outside Palestine, they commemorate the catastrophic 1948 war that scattered their lives and forced millions of them to live as refugees all over the region; memorials were held in order for the Palestinian generations "not to forget".
The1948 Palestinian catastrophe coincided with the ending of the British mandate on Palestine and the establishment of the state of Israel on the Palestinian soil. The Israeli state came to light accordingly with the UN resolution no. 181 that divided Palestine into two states- Israel and Palestine; the part of resolution regarding Israel was implemented immediately while the part on the Palestinian state is yet to be realized.
The Palestinian catastrophe is a black mark in the world's modern history; the majority of the Palestinians were expelled from their homeland- leaving their properties behind to scatter as refugees all over the region and to suffer all sorts of abuses and discriminations. Three quarters of Palestine was abducted at that time; 531 Palestinian towns and villages were destroyed and removed from the map, and 85% of the population were driven away and were never allowed back to their homeland.
Number of the Palestinian refugees who were to leave Palestine in 1948 was estimated to about 750,000 persons, and in 1967 another 350,000 Palestinians were made refugees as a result of the Israeli "six days war" launched at the rest of Palestine that came to be known as the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza strip.
Statistics show that 5.1 million Palestinians are now living outside Palestine; 4.2 millions of them are distributed over 10 UNRWA camps in Syria and Jordan, 12 camps in Lebanon, 8 camps in Gaza strip and another 19 camps in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Several Palestinian, Arab and International rational initiatives were launched during the six past decades to maintain the "right of all" in a dignified life in the area, but none of those initiatives had been interpreted on the ground.
However, the Israeli consecutive governments went on with its war against the Palestinians- without listening or reacting to any of the calls of the International community.
The Palestinians In the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza, while commemorating the 1948 Nakba, are still suffering the worst human, political, and social conditions ever been imposed on them.
The figures that appear in this bulletin regarding the Palestinian martyrs, imprisoned, and injured are real although they might sound devastating; the massive abduction and sweeping of the Palestinian houses and fertile lands is another issue that can't be isolated from the Israeli vicious and violent ongoing policy to enlarge the Jewish settlements and to erect the separation wall on the Palestinian soil- regardless of the cost on the Palestinian people and on peace and security in the region.
Editor: Abdul Rasool Tom
Translator: Suha Al-Khatib
END
Report of the Palestine Liberation Organization
Report of the Department of Arab and International Relations (DAIR)
The Palestinian National Dialogue
On the 25th May, the Palestinian National dialogue launched its sessions in Gaza and Ramallah at the same time, with the intention to reach a formula that might help the Palestinian people to find a way out of the current catastrophic situation. The dialogue that included all Palestinian political identities is hoped to save the Palestinian people and their national project that are now facing the most vicious Israeli imposed unilateral on ground steps.
The national reconciliation paper proposed by leaders of the major Palestinian groups in the Israeli jails forms the bases for the ongoing dialogue as it initiates a comprehensive political vision that acceptable by most parties.
In his speech before the meeting, President Mahmoud Abbas reaffirmed that the meeting had to conclude their sessions and consultations within ten days - according to his words, "time is running very fast and we don't have the luxury of going on talking indefinitely". He warned that the Israeli side is investing every minute to impose their unilateral plans – that would destroy all hopes to establish an independent viable Palestinian state within the 1967 territories.
A genuine applicable national dialogue would no doubt lead to national unity and to the establishment of a strong protective shield to the Palestinians and their national project in the foundation of their independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. This sacred goal required high standard of responsibility from the different parties involved, and a true well from their part to put the general and national concerns on top of the specific and individual interests of each of them, and most of all it need a firm stand against those who would take their differences and disputes out to the streets.
The dialogue must come to an agreement between the parties as soon as possible. Points of agreement should take into consideration the highest Palestinian national interests and aspirations in freedom and independence.
The clock works against us, and we demand a prompt
clear and specific dialogue away from sophistications, complexities and superiorities.
-Summary of the Israeli violations against Palestinian Human rights (May 2006)
-By the time that the Palestinians are almost facing a starvation due to the Israeli and the International society siege imposed on them; the IOF expanded its military invasions to the Occupied Palestinian territories and committed more war crimes.
-During May 2006, the IOF continued its incursions against the Palestinian areas:
*44 Palestinians, including 2 children, 12 of the victims were extra-judicially executed by IOF;
*134 Palestinian civilians, 5 members of the International Solidarity movement(ISM) and 5 journalists were injured by IOF;
*229 Palestinian civilians were arrested by IOF;
*10 Palestinian houses were evacuated and transformed by IOF into military sites.
*1 house was demolished by IOF;
*55 olive & fig trees were uprooted;
*7 dunums were expropriated to construct the Apartheid Segregation Wall;
-During the period between 29/9/2000 and 31/5/2006, the IOF killed 4087 Palestinians; 792 of the martyrs were children, 273 were women, 348 were members of the Palestinian National Forces, 415 were assassinated in cold blood, 138 of the martyrs were ill and passed away on Israeli Military checkpoints, 58 were killed by Jewish settlers, 6 were foreign volunteers from the ISM, 9 of the martyrs were journalists and 220 are athletes.
-During the same period, 36,060 Palestinians were injured, 7500 were children and young men who were left with permanent disabilities. 40,000 Palestinians were detained Palestinians, 9400 are still in the Israeli jails. Total number of the affected Palestinian houses is 65,443; 7,682 of which were demolished leaving thousands of the Palestinian citizens with no shelter.
-Agricultural Substance is the main resource of living for the Palestinians; but the Israeli measurements affected it severely; by uprooting, burning and sweeping away more than a million tree. Since 29/3/2003, the IOF have expropriated more than 295,542 dunums; to construct new settlements, expand the old ones and build the Apartheid Segregation Wall.
-The IOF enhanced its policy of closures and checkpoints preventing the Palestinian workers from the movement between the Palestinian areas and the access to their jobs; due to this the unemployment Palestinians number increased to 272,000 and poverty is estimated to be extended to 72% of the Palestinian society.
**
1- Assassination in Cold Blood:
1/5/2006: The IOF killed the 41-years old female Palestinian civilian 'Itaf Azzalat, , in the city of Tulkarem and wounded her two daughters (Ahlam & Ansam Yossef).
4/5/2006: The IOF killed Mohammed Abu Mouhsen, 40-years old, from the city of Tubas; Abu Mouhsen was driving his taxi in the area of Wadi Al-Bathan checkpoint, along Nablus- Tubas main road.
5/5/2006: The Israeli army killed Mohammed Mustafa al Qutub in the city of
Nablus.
5/5/2006: The IOF extra-judicially killed 5 Palestinian civilians in an air raid to Rafah: Jum’ah Dughmush, Mahmoud Dughmush, Hamadeh Dughmush, Saeb Dughmush and Khaled Deeb Wakid.
7/5/2006: An Israeli tank shell hit the area where Hassan Al-Shafi'ee, 55-years old, and Mosa Sawarkeh, 60-years old, were planting the land; the both Palestinian were instantly killed.
12/5/2006: The IOF killed Raed Tubeileh, 28-years old, from the city of Nablus; Tubeileh was seriously wounded and evacuated by an ambulance but the IOF prevented the ambulance from continuing its way towards the hospital till the injured man died.
15/5/2006: During a raid into Qabatya village, southeast of Jenin, the IOF killed : Elias Khairi Mohammed al-Ashqar, 26-year-old, Mo’tassem ‘Ali Baheej Ja’ar, 25-year-old, Tha’er Subhi Sadiq Hanaisha, 23-year-old, and his 21-year-old brother Mujahed and Jihad Kameel, 21-year-old. Ali Jabareen, 22-year-old, was shot dead, while he was on duty guarding the headquarters of the Palestinian General Intelligence Services,by the IOF inside the city of Jenin.
17/5/2006: During an IOF raid to the city of Nablus, the IOF killed Othman Sadakah, 26-year-old, and Mustafa Abdul Ghani, 22-year-old.
17/5/2006: The 73-year-old man, Mushref Al-Mubaslat, died of a heart attack in the city of Nablus; Al-Mubaslat was unable to reach the hospital because of the severe restrictions on movement the IOF is being imposing in the city.
20/5/2006: An IOF aircraft launched its missiles at a civilian car that was traveling in the city of Gaza. The Palestinian civilian Mohammed Al-Dahdouh ,25-year-old, who had been traveling in the car was instantly killed; another civilian car was hit causing the death of the grandmother Na'iemeh Amin, 50-year-old, the daughter Hanan Amin, 25-year-old,and her grandson Mohannad Amin, 5-year-old.
21/5/2006: The IOF killed Aysheh Abu Emsallam, 48-year-old, in Balata refugee camp /Nablus; Abu Emsallah was shot dead while looking outside of her house window.
23/5/2006: The IOF soldiers at Al-Sheikh Sa'ed checkpoint /Occupied Jerusalem beat to death the 51-year-old man Ahmed Mohesein from Abu Deis.
24/5/2006: The IOF invaded of Ramallah the killing 3 civilians and 1 Palestinian security officer: Aysar Jameel Abu ‘Arrah, a Palestinian National Security officer, Meelad ‘Atallah Abu Al- ‘Arayes, 20-year-old, Khaled Ja’far Yassin, 22-year-old, and Ghaleb Rabah; another 57 Palestinian civilians were injured.
24/5/2006: The Palestinian farmer Omer Abu Radeh, 43-year-old, was killed by an Israeli tank shell while working in his farm in Jabalia Refugee Camp /Gaza.
25/5/2006: Ala' Hujeir, 20-year-old, died of sustained wound; the IOF wounded Hujeir in April 2006.
25/5/2006: An Israeli tank shell hit Al-Kasim family house in Beit Lahia /Gaza; Mustafa Kasim, 19-year-old, Mohammed Kasim, 18-year-old, and Arafeh Sarandeh, 15-year-old, were instantly killed. Another 7 members of the family were injured.
30/5/2006: The IOF killed Mohammed Matar, 20-year-old, Yousef Al-Ma'zeh, 24-year-old, Abdul Rahman Abu Shanab, 27-year-old, and Sabri Abu Iqleeq, 23-year-old, in Al-Shati' Refugee Camp /Gaza Strip.
30/5/2006: The IOF opened its fire during an invasion to the town of Qabatieh /Jenin; Tareq Zakarneh, 24-year-old, was instantly killed.
30/5/2006: The IOF extra-judicially killed Osamah Al-Namari, 29-year-old, from the town of Anabta /Tulkarem.
30/5/2006: Hani Al-Saqqa, 24-year-old, was killed during an IOF invasion to Balata Refugee Camp /Nablus.
**
2-The Apartheid Segregation Wall (ASW)
1/5/2006: Tens of Palestinian civilians and international and Israeli solidarity activists participated in replanting 200 dunums, the IOA intend to confiscate, in the village of Om Salmoneh /Bethlehem.
4/5/2006: The IOF issued a military order to confiscate 7 dunums of land belonging to the town of Al-Samou' /Hebron to construct a military post.
7/5/2006: The IOF bulldozers uprooted 55 olive and fig trees, which were planted 50 years ago in the village of Rameen /Tulkarem.
7/5/2006: The Israeli Peace Block said: "The ASW is separating between members of the same family; students and teachers and their schools. It is the reason behind closing 3 of the Arab schools; besides transforming the neighborhood of Al-Ram into a big jail that used to be a vital place".
9/5/2006: The settlers of "Ariel" settlement /Nablus freed tens of wild pigs in the area between the city of Salfeet and the village of Iskaka in the West Bank; an attempt to ruin the agricultural crops and expose the Palestinians over there to danger. Another group of the pigs was released in May 16th.
10/5/2006: The settlers of "Rot Yashai" settling post inside the city of Hebron expropriated a dunum of land in Tal Al-Rameedeh area inside the old city of Hebron; the land belong to the Palestinian family "Abu Haikal".
11/5/2006: The IOF swept away 20 dunums from a farm planted with almond and olive trees in the town of Al-Kararah /Khan Younis.
12/5/2006: The IOF wounded Adeeba Suleiman Husni, 60-year-old, by a rubber-coated metal bullet to the head; while chasing the demonstrators who were protesting to the construction of the Wall in Bal'ien village.
12/5/2006: About 500 Palestinian civilians and 60 international and Israeli solidarity activists organized a peaceful demonstration in Bal’ein village, west of Ramallah, in protest to the construction of the Wall. IOF fired rubber-coated metal bullets, tear gas canisters and sound bombs at the demonstrators. Nine demonstrators and a journalist were wounded; Jamal al-‘Aarouri, 40-year-old, a photographer from the local daily al-Ayyam, was wounded by a rubber coated metal bullet to the hand.
13/5/2006: About 1500 Palestinian civilian and international and Israeli solidarity activists organized a peaceful demonstration near the entrance of Dahiat al-Barid area, north of the occupied Jerusalem, in protest to the construction of the Wall in the area. IOF fired dozens of tear gas canisters at the demonstrators, violently beat a number of them and arrested a number of them.
13/5/2006: SFS burned a fire in Al Qanouni stone quarry near Huwwara checkpoint and burnt a number of barracks therein.
.
17/5/2006: The Israeli newspaper "Ha'aretz" affirmed that the IOF had finished the construction of 336 km of the ASW, 42% of the West Bank; ASW length is about 790 km and extends through the Palestinian Lands.
27/5/2006: SFS burnt 4 trucks belonging to Palestinian citizens from the town of Howara /Nablus; an IOF curfew was imposed on the town.
**
3- Israeli Checkpoints and Barriers:
1/5/2006: The Israeli army had assaulted and beaten Su’ad ‘Ilayyan Al-Madani, 65-year-old, in Al-Karantina neighborhood /Hebron, detained her, and prevented an ambulance from transporting the injured woman to hospital.
2/5/2005: The IOF soldiers positioned at the checkpoints in the Jordan valley are imposing a new regulation that allows certain people from the west bank only to enter the area – the regulation in known by "the ID and place of the original registration", which denies the access of Palestinian civilians and employees from the West Bank to the Jordan Valley.
2/5/2006: The IOF soldiers beat the 12-year-old disable boy Mohammed Karariyeh, in a flying checkpoint on the road between Jenin and Qalqilyeh
2/5/2006: The IOF soldiers detained tens of the Palestinian civilian cars in 'Arabeh valley on Jenin-Nablus road /Jenin; the Palestinians were forced to leave their cars and take off their clothes in order to be searched by the IOF soldiers.
2/5/2006: The IOF continued to close Al-Hamra checkpoint set up on the Jericho-Nablus road, denying civilian access, except for farmers holding Jericho-issued IDs; claiming that it is a military closed area.
8/5/2006: The IOF tightened its siege around the district of Salfit, set up 4 flying checkpoint on the entrances of the Palestinian villages Jam'een, Bidia and Brokeen; denying civilian access.
8/5/2006: The IOF set up a sudden flying checkpoint on the northern entrance of Tubas city /Jenin, stopped and searched the Palestinians civilian cars and detained the Palestinian civilians for many hours.
10/5/2006: The IOF soldiers detained a bus transforming 20 Palestinian children on their way to the kindergarten in the village of Al-Bathan for more than 4 hours.
15/5/2006: The IOF soldiers closed Za'tara checkpoint /Nablus and denied civilian access to the road to Ramallah city.
12/5/2006: The 42-year-old Palestinian Omar Al-Malhi passes away due to a heart attack on Shu'fat's Camp checkpoint /Occupied Jerusalem; the IOF soldiers prevented the ambulance from evacuating Al-Malhi to a hospital in the occupied Jerusalem.
**
4- Arrests and Jails
1/5/2005:Family of the female Palestinian prisoner Itaf E'layan blead to legal institutions International and Local human rights organizations to enforce pressure on the Israeli Government in order to release their daughter Itaf with her 19-month-old baby; Itaf has been detained as an administrative prisoner and the IOF renewed the sentence lately.
2/5/2006: The IOF arrested the 45-year-old Palestinian female Rakiyah Lubadah from the city of Nablus for the fourth time, in an attempt to practice pressure on her wanted son to the IOF in order to handle himself; an Israeli policy that is used always with the mothers of the wanted Palestinians to the IOF.
10/5/2006: The Negev jail administration forced 36 Palestinian prisoners to be searched naked in a humiliated way, claiming that the prisoners obtain prohibited materials.
10/5/2006: More 9000 Palestinian male and female prisoners in the Israeli Jails started a food strike, to protest on the isolation policy the IO jails Authorities are using with many Palestinian prisoners.
16/5/2006: The IOF arrested 760 Palestinian workers inside Israel, claiming that the Palestinians didn't obtain the required permissions to be and work in Israel.
**
5- House Demolition:
3/5/2006: The IOF issued two military orders to demolish a house belonging to Issa Al-Jabareen from the town of Sa'eer /Hebron and an agricultural kiosk belonging to Isma'il Al-Rajabi in Jabal Johar /Hebron.
9/5/2006: The IOA raided the town of Beit Hanina and demolished a 2- storey house belonging to two brothers from Al-Ja'bari family, claiming that it was built without the required license.
10/5/2006: The IOA handed a warning to demolish the house belonging to the Palestinian civilian Ratib Badawi, under the claim that the house was built without an Israeli building permission.
24/5/2006: The IOF bulldozers demolished a 150 meter square building belonging to Abdullah Abbas, a land wall and an under construction kiosk belonging to Mohammed Muheisen from the village of Al-Funduq /Qalqilyeh.
25/5/2006: The IOF demolished a garage for fixing cars and selling cars' parts belonging to Habis and Ayman Al-Alameh in the town of Beit Ommar /Hebron.
**
6- Violations against Education and Health Institutions
2/5/2006: The IOF invaded Beit Sahoor medical centre and the Deer Al-Roum Al-Catholic medical centre in the town of Beit Sahoor /Bethlehem; they ruined some of centers property.
2/5/2006: The IOF bulldozers demolished a part of Howwara Secondary school wall /Nablus, continued to close the dust road in front of the school to put more pressure on the students.
12/5/2006: The IOF soldiers positioned at ‘Atara checkpoint detained for two hours a civilian vehicle transporting Nour ad Din Taleb ‘Arar, an ill 2-month-old child, to Ramallah Public Hospital for medical treatment.
13/5/2006: SFS attacked the Palestinian students in Al-Shuhada' street and Wadi Al-Haseen neighborhood using spoiled eggs and empty glass bottles in the city of Hebron.
13/5/2006: The IOF raided the village of Sur Bahir as well as raided the offices of the Cultural Forum during the launching of a book fair entitled “Supporting Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him”. The IOF also confiscated computers, cassettes, and books from the book fair.
13/5/2006: The IOF raided the village of ‘Anata /Occupied Jerusalem, raided the village’s Girls School, and fired tear gas grenades, injuring 1 female student after a tear gas grenade hit her in the head. The female student was transported to hospital for medical treatment.
27/5/2006: The IOF opened fire towards a Palestinian ambulance transporting to hospital a pregnant female civilian, Najah Al-Sadiq, who was in labour. The Israeli army also forced the ambulance to stop and the Al-Sadeq to step out the ambulance.
**
7-Religious Violations:
7/5/2006: The IOF closed the Ibrahimi Mosque in the Old city of Hebron, prevented the access of the Palestinian worshippers to the Mosque under the claim that the area around the Mosque in a closed military area.
14/5/2006: The IOF prevented Palestinian civilians under 30 years of age from accessing and performing prayers at the Ibrahimi Mosque in the old city of Hebron.
23/5/2006: The IOF invaded Anata Mosque / Occupied Jerusalem, detained and searched the worshippers.
**
8- Press:-
1/5/2006: The IOF soldiers beat the Palestinian journalists Hazem Badir and Abdul Hafeeth Al-Hashlamoon in the city of Hebron.
13/5/2006: The IOF soldiers on Eretz Checkpoint searched a female member of the ISM "Kareen Winger" from Switzerland, naked under the excuse of security reasons.
15/5/2006: The IOF injured the camera man of Associated Press Sameer Abu Al-Rub with a pullet in the back; Abu Al-Rub was covering an IOF invasion to the town of Qabatiyah /Jenin.
16/5/2006: The IOF detained the camera man of the Palestinian press agency "Wafa" Ahman Mizhir while doing his job in the city of Bethlehem.
30/5/2006: The journalist Yahia Al-Madhoun in Al-Shabab radio and the cameraman Mahmoud Al-Mabayed of Ramattan agency for news, were injured during covering the news in Gaza Strip.
**
9- After 58 years from the Palestinian Nakba, The refugee problem is still there
The 15th of May was a special day for the Palestinians in and outside Palestine, they commemorate the catastrophic 1948 war that scattered their lives and forced millions of them to live as refugees all over the region; memorials were held in order for the Palestinian generations "not to forget".
The1948 Palestinian catastrophe coincided with the ending of the British mandate on Palestine and the establishment of the state of Israel on the Palestinian soil. The Israeli state came to light accordingly with the UN resolution no. 181 that divided Palestine into two states- Israel and Palestine; the part of resolution regarding Israel was implemented immediately while the part on the Palestinian state is yet to be realized.
The Palestinian catastrophe is a black mark in the world's modern history; the majority of the Palestinians were expelled from their homeland- leaving their properties behind to scatter as refugees all over the region and to suffer all sorts of abuses and discriminations. Three quarters of Palestine was abducted at that time; 531 Palestinian towns and villages were destroyed and removed from the map, and 85% of the population were driven away and were never allowed back to their homeland.
Number of the Palestinian refugees who were to leave Palestine in 1948 was estimated to about 750,000 persons, and in 1967 another 350,000 Palestinians were made refugees as a result of the Israeli "six days war" launched at the rest of Palestine that came to be known as the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza strip.
Statistics show that 5.1 million Palestinians are now living outside Palestine; 4.2 millions of them are distributed over 10 UNRWA camps in Syria and Jordan, 12 camps in Lebanon, 8 camps in Gaza strip and another 19 camps in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Several Palestinian, Arab and International rational initiatives were launched during the six past decades to maintain the "right of all" in a dignified life in the area, but none of those initiatives had been interpreted on the ground.
However, the Israeli consecutive governments went on with its war against the Palestinians- without listening or reacting to any of the calls of the International community.
The Palestinians In the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza, while commemorating the 1948 Nakba, are still suffering the worst human, political, and social conditions ever been imposed on them.
The figures that appear in this bulletin regarding the Palestinian martyrs, imprisoned, and injured are real although they might sound devastating; the massive abduction and sweeping of the Palestinian houses and fertile lands is another issue that can't be isolated from the Israeli vicious and violent ongoing policy to enlarge the Jewish settlements and to erect the separation wall on the Palestinian soil- regardless of the cost on the Palestinian people and on peace and security in the region.
Editor: Abdul Rasool Tom
Translator: Suha Al-Khatib
END
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Arab Media Watch back online after hacker attack
Arab Media Watch is pleased to announce the launch of its new website, several months after a vicious hacking.
It provides our usual services such as media reviews, action alerts, analyses, news, press releases, an events calendar, TV and radio listings, media contacts, quote of the day, tips for media lobbying, forums, polls, a shop etc.
However it is bigger, better and more secure than the previous website, including more country backgrounds, a Palestine Body Count, and lists of AMW's media interactions and events, among other things.
It is also a work in progress, so expect more improvements and additions in the future. AMW owes its success to the efforts and interest of its members. To register, go to:
http://www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/MemberServices
/MyAccount/tabid/54/Default.aspx
Members on our old site will have to re-register. It is free, easy, fast and confidential, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused. To find out more about AMW, go to:
http://www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/
AboutUs/tabid/52/Default.aspx
We continued our activities during the hacking period, including regular media interviews, letter-writing and articles. Our highlights included hosting Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa, and conducting a major study into the BBC's coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, at the invitation of the BBC as part of its impartiality review.
Our findings and recommendations closely mirrored those of an independent panel, the Communications Research Centre at Loughborough University, and Israeli international lawyer Noam Lubell - all officially commissioned by the BBC - as well as previous research by Professor Greg Philo of the Glasgow University Media Group. Comparative highlights of each report are at:
http://www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/Articles
/BBCWatch/tabid/133/newsid476/
2580/Comparative-BBC-analysis-
AMW-independent-panel-Loughborough--
Lubell-reports/Default.aspx
It provides our usual services such as media reviews, action alerts, analyses, news, press releases, an events calendar, TV and radio listings, media contacts, quote of the day, tips for media lobbying, forums, polls, a shop etc.
However it is bigger, better and more secure than the previous website, including more country backgrounds, a Palestine Body Count, and lists of AMW's media interactions and events, among other things.
It is also a work in progress, so expect more improvements and additions in the future. AMW owes its success to the efforts and interest of its members. To register, go to:
http://www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/MemberServices
/MyAccount/tabid/54/Default.aspx
Members on our old site will have to re-register. It is free, easy, fast and confidential, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused. To find out more about AMW, go to:
http://www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/
AboutUs/tabid/52/Default.aspx
We continued our activities during the hacking period, including regular media interviews, letter-writing and articles. Our highlights included hosting Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa, and conducting a major study into the BBC's coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, at the invitation of the BBC as part of its impartiality review.
Our findings and recommendations closely mirrored those of an independent panel, the Communications Research Centre at Loughborough University, and Israeli international lawyer Noam Lubell - all officially commissioned by the BBC - as well as previous research by Professor Greg Philo of the Glasgow University Media Group. Comparative highlights of each report are at:
http://www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/Articles
/BBCWatch/tabid/133/newsid476/
2580/Comparative-BBC-analysis-
AMW-independent-panel-Loughborough--
Lubell-reports/Default.aspx
Friday, May 26, 2006
Toast to King Tut tour Friday June 9
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Paul Lee
847.769.2821
Christina Breslow
312.665.7133
The Field Associates of The Field Museum Present
"THE FIELD TRIP: A Toast to Tut"
CHICAGO (April 7, 2006)—On Friday, June 9, The Field Associates of The Field Museum will host their summer event, The Field Trip: A Toast to Tut. The event will showcase Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs.
The exhibition of nearly 130 priceless treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun and other royal tombs opens May 26 and runs through January 1, 2007.
The Field Associates event is inspired by the mysterious wonders of ancient Egypt. Guests will enjoy food and cocktails on the Museum’s northeast terrace, musical entertainment throughout the night by DJ Plez and a jazz trio, and a special raffle. The evening’s highlight will be a private viewing of Tut and the Museum’s permanent exhibition Inside Ancient Egypt. The event begins at 7 pm and ends at 11 pm.
"We're excited to kick off the summer party season with a much anticipated event that will place the treasures of Tut center stage," says Curtis Spears, co-chair for the event.
Tickets are $95 for individual tickets, $85 for Field Associates members, and $800 for a block of 10 tickets. Tickets may be purchased by phone at 1-866-FIELD-03 or online at www.fieldmuseum.org/fieldassociates.
Proceeds from the event benefit the educational programs of The Field Museum including those geared toward student and teacher enrichment, community outreach, and public lectures.
The Field Associates is a membership organization of young professionals of diverse professions and backgrounds with a common interest in exploring the depth of The Field Museum. This dynamic group was established to promote awareness of The Field Museum’s collections, research and public programs, and to encourage involvement through a variety of activities and events.
For more information about The Field Associates of The Field Museum and The Field Trip: A Toast to Tut, please contact Christina Breslow at 312.665.7133.
This is an exhibition from National Geographic. Organized by Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions in association with The Supreme Council of Antiquities of Egypt and The Field Museum. Tour Sponsor: Northern Trust. Chicago Sponsor: Exelon, Proud Parent of ComEd.
###
Contact: Paul Lee
847.769.2821
Christina Breslow
312.665.7133
The Field Associates of The Field Museum Present
"THE FIELD TRIP: A Toast to Tut"
CHICAGO (April 7, 2006)—On Friday, June 9, The Field Associates of The Field Museum will host their summer event, The Field Trip: A Toast to Tut. The event will showcase Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs.
The exhibition of nearly 130 priceless treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun and other royal tombs opens May 26 and runs through January 1, 2007.
The Field Associates event is inspired by the mysterious wonders of ancient Egypt. Guests will enjoy food and cocktails on the Museum’s northeast terrace, musical entertainment throughout the night by DJ Plez and a jazz trio, and a special raffle. The evening’s highlight will be a private viewing of Tut and the Museum’s permanent exhibition Inside Ancient Egypt. The event begins at 7 pm and ends at 11 pm.
"We're excited to kick off the summer party season with a much anticipated event that will place the treasures of Tut center stage," says Curtis Spears, co-chair for the event.
Tickets are $95 for individual tickets, $85 for Field Associates members, and $800 for a block of 10 tickets. Tickets may be purchased by phone at 1-866-FIELD-03 or online at www.fieldmuseum.org/fieldassociates.
Proceeds from the event benefit the educational programs of The Field Museum including those geared toward student and teacher enrichment, community outreach, and public lectures.
The Field Associates is a membership organization of young professionals of diverse professions and backgrounds with a common interest in exploring the depth of The Field Museum. This dynamic group was established to promote awareness of The Field Museum’s collections, research and public programs, and to encourage involvement through a variety of activities and events.
For more information about The Field Associates of The Field Museum and The Field Trip: A Toast to Tut, please contact Christina Breslow at 312.665.7133.
This is an exhibition from National Geographic. Organized by Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions in association with The Supreme Council of Antiquities of Egypt and The Field Museum. Tour Sponsor: Northern Trust. Chicago Sponsor: Exelon, Proud Parent of ComEd.
###
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Portrait of Syria opens
"LENS ON SYRIA: THIRTY YEARS OF CONTEMPORARY CINEMA" OPENS IN CHICAGO.
New York- After its successful debut at New York's prestigious Lincoln Center (from May 5th-18th 2006), international arts nonprofit ArteEast announced today the the launch of the second station of its North American tour of "Lens on Syrian Cinema: Thirty Years of Contemporary Cinema", at the Gene Siskel Film Center, in Chicago, from June 2nd to 28th, 2006.
The program, titled, "New Stories and Ancient Dreams: The Way to Syrian Cinema," includes four masterworks of Syrian cinema.The series is planned to continue touring at the following institutions: The Canadian Film Institute in Ottawa; The Pacific Cinematheque in Vancouver; The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston; The Pacific Film Archives in Berkley, The San Francisco Arab Film Festival) and The Northwest Film Center in Portland, Oregon.
A complete tour schedule is available at http://www.arteeast.org.
GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER o 164 N. State St. o Chicago, IL
TICKETS: $9 general admission o $7 students o $5 Film Center members.
INFORMATION: 312-846-2800 o
www.siskelfilmcenter.org
DISCOUNTED PARKING: InterPark at 20 E. Randolph, $14 with movie ticket stub, no time limit!ABOUT ARTEEAST
ArteEast is a New York-based international nonprofit organization that supports artists from the Middle East and its diasporas, raising awareness of their most talented and groundbreaking work through public events, exhibits, a dynamic online gallery and a resource-rich website.Since its founding in 2003, ArteEast has brought over 200 feature, short and documentary films; the works of over 40 new visual artists; and 40 filmmakers, artists, actors and critics to the US to discuss their work. ArteEast programs have traveled to a dozen cities in the US and Canada, and are now expanding beyond North America.Visit the ArteEast website at http://www.arteeast.org to learn about our ongoing events, read up on the latest news from the art scene in the Middle East, and access our virtual gallery.MEDIA CONTACTRasha Salti, ArteEast. Mobile: +1 347 448 12 91.
==================
ArteEast490 Third Street, #2Brooklyn, NY 11215Tel & Fax: 718 832 6564Email: info@arteeast.orgwww.arteeast.org
New York- After its successful debut at New York's prestigious Lincoln Center (from May 5th-18th 2006), international arts nonprofit ArteEast announced today the the launch of the second station of its North American tour of "Lens on Syrian Cinema: Thirty Years of Contemporary Cinema", at the Gene Siskel Film Center, in Chicago, from June 2nd to 28th, 2006.
The program, titled, "New Stories and Ancient Dreams: The Way to Syrian Cinema," includes four masterworks of Syrian cinema.The series is planned to continue touring at the following institutions: The Canadian Film Institute in Ottawa; The Pacific Cinematheque in Vancouver; The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston; The Pacific Film Archives in Berkley, The San Francisco Arab Film Festival) and The Northwest Film Center in Portland, Oregon.
A complete tour schedule is available at http://www.arteeast.org.
GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER o 164 N. State St. o Chicago, IL
TICKETS: $9 general admission o $7 students o $5 Film Center members.
INFORMATION: 312-846-2800 o
www.siskelfilmcenter.org
DISCOUNTED PARKING: InterPark at 20 E. Randolph, $14 with movie ticket stub, no time limit!ABOUT ARTEEAST
ArteEast is a New York-based international nonprofit organization that supports artists from the Middle East and its diasporas, raising awareness of their most talented and groundbreaking work through public events, exhibits, a dynamic online gallery and a resource-rich website.Since its founding in 2003, ArteEast has brought over 200 feature, short and documentary films; the works of over 40 new visual artists; and 40 filmmakers, artists, actors and critics to the US to discuss their work. ArteEast programs have traveled to a dozen cities in the US and Canada, and are now expanding beyond North America.Visit the ArteEast website at http://www.arteeast.org to learn about our ongoing events, read up on the latest news from the art scene in the Middle East, and access our virtual gallery.MEDIA CONTACTRasha Salti, ArteEast. Mobile: +1 347 448 12 91.
==================
ArteEast490 Third Street, #2Brooklyn, NY 11215Tel & Fax: 718 832 6564Email: info@arteeast.orgwww.arteeast.org
Congress votes to support violence and end peace process in Middle East
Congress votes to fuel more violence and block peace process
May 24, 2006
The Palestinian American Federation
Press Release
The Palestinian American Federation expresses its disappointment with the passing of HR4681, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006. The vote count was 361 yeas, 37 nays, 9 presents (abstentions), and 25 not voting (Roll Call Vote No. 181).
It is a sad day in the history of a country that prides itself on the principles of "Liberty and Justice for all" This bill places the Palestinian People in great danger and would exacerbate a human catastrophe. This bill targets Palestinian families and children, and deprives them of their basic human needs by our Congress.
Instead our Congress should have voted "NO" to this bill to assure that the Palestinian families and children will be treated in a manner that would reflect our values that human lives are valuable.
A " NO" vote would have sent a message to the World of our intense desire to achieve a just and lasting peace. Our American values of compassion and charity were silenced where they should have been emphasized instead.
This vote was not a vote for peace, it was not a vote for America, it was a vote for more violence and more bloodshed.
As Rep. John Dingell ( D-MI) simply put it" Peace in the Middle East is not going to be achieved at gunpoint. It is going to be achieved by negotiations, by people working together; and that process may be ugly, dirty and slow, but it is the only process that will work."... "Our purpose should be to look to the well-being of the United States, craft a policy which is good for this country. And that policy can only be one which is good for Israel and for the Palestinian people, one which is fair to all, one which puts the United States as a friend and an honest broker of peace to both parties where we can be so accepted
Please go to the link below to find out which way your congressman voted, send him a thank you note if he voted NO, but if he voted YES, before you blame him ask yourself when was the last time he/she heard from you? Educate him, get involved.
(Roll Call Vote No. 181).
Please join: PalestinianAmericanFederation
May 24, 2006
The Palestinian American Federation
Press Release
The Palestinian American Federation expresses its disappointment with the passing of HR4681, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006. The vote count was 361 yeas, 37 nays, 9 presents (abstentions), and 25 not voting (Roll Call Vote No. 181).
It is a sad day in the history of a country that prides itself on the principles of "Liberty and Justice for all" This bill places the Palestinian People in great danger and would exacerbate a human catastrophe. This bill targets Palestinian families and children, and deprives them of their basic human needs by our Congress.
Instead our Congress should have voted "NO" to this bill to assure that the Palestinian families and children will be treated in a manner that would reflect our values that human lives are valuable.
A " NO" vote would have sent a message to the World of our intense desire to achieve a just and lasting peace. Our American values of compassion and charity were silenced where they should have been emphasized instead.
This vote was not a vote for peace, it was not a vote for America, it was a vote for more violence and more bloodshed.
As Rep. John Dingell ( D-MI) simply put it" Peace in the Middle East is not going to be achieved at gunpoint. It is going to be achieved by negotiations, by people working together; and that process may be ugly, dirty and slow, but it is the only process that will work."... "Our purpose should be to look to the well-being of the United States, craft a policy which is good for this country. And that policy can only be one which is good for Israel and for the Palestinian people, one which is fair to all, one which puts the United States as a friend and an honest broker of peace to both parties where we can be so accepted
Please go to the link below to find out which way your congressman voted, send him a thank you note if he voted NO, but if he voted YES, before you blame him ask yourself when was the last time he/she heard from you? Educate him, get involved.
(Roll Call Vote No. 181).
Please join: PalestinianAmericanFederation
Monday, May 22, 2006
Images and Perceptions of Arab Americans Workshop Wed. May 31, 2006
Perceptions of Arab Americans
Dearborn, Michigan, Fairlane Center
Wednesday, 5-31- 2006, 8:30- 2 p.m
"Arab Detroit" will hold its Images and Perceptions of Arab Americans Workshop, entitled "Arab Bashing in America: Fact or Fiction." on Wednesday, 5-31- 2006, 8:30- 2 p.m.
Former Congresswoman Mary Rose Oakar, ADC National President is keynote.
Other presenters include Dr. Nadine Naber, Assistant Professor of the Program on America Culture and Department of Women’s Studies at the University of Michigan;
Dr. Evelyn Azeeza Sultany, Research Investigator on Racism for the Program on American Culture at the University of Michigan;
Ray Hanania, award-winning writer, author and comedian from Chicago.
The cost for the workshop is $95 per person, which includes a continental breakfast, luncheon and workshop. University of Michigan – Dearborn Fairlane Center.
For more information, please call 248.348.7555,
or e-mail: sihamj@davidcomgroup.com
Dearborn, Michigan, Fairlane Center
Wednesday, 5-31- 2006, 8:30- 2 p.m
"Arab Detroit" will hold its Images and Perceptions of Arab Americans Workshop, entitled "Arab Bashing in America: Fact or Fiction." on Wednesday, 5-31- 2006, 8:30- 2 p.m.
Former Congresswoman Mary Rose Oakar, ADC National President is keynote.
Other presenters include Dr. Nadine Naber, Assistant Professor of the Program on America Culture and Department of Women’s Studies at the University of Michigan;
Dr. Evelyn Azeeza Sultany, Research Investigator on Racism for the Program on American Culture at the University of Michigan;
Ray Hanania, award-winning writer, author and comedian from Chicago.
The cost for the workshop is $95 per person, which includes a continental breakfast, luncheon and workshop. University of Michigan – Dearborn Fairlane Center.
For more information, please call 248.348.7555,
or e-mail: sihamj@davidcomgroup.com
Imam of al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem to present in Northbrook, Illinois
A weekend with a Holy Man
Music of the Soul
Bismallah ar Rahman ar Rahim
In the Name of the Allah the Merciful, the Compassionate
Surrendering to Love, Beauty and Peace
A weekend with a Holy Man
Shaykh Muhammad Sa’id al-Jamal ar-Rifa’I ash-Shaduli
Shaykh Sidi Muhammad al- Jamal is head of the Higher Sufi Council in Jerusalem and the Imam for the Al-Aqsa Mosque , and is the Guide to several million students world wide. As an internationally recognized spiritual teacher and man of peace, he was invited to speak as a featured guest at the United Nations World Peace Summit. His mission is to serve all of humanity, regardless of race, religion, nationality or gender, and to give the LOVE to everyone and not make any separation.
June 30, July 1 and 2, 2006
Northbrook, Illinois
You are invited to experience the wisdom of this internationally renowned teacher and Spiritual Guide Sidi Muhammad al-Jamal.
Sidi, as he is known to his students, has dedicated his entire life to helping people of all faiths to open their hearts to a deeply personal relationship with the Loving Reality that is at the core of all the world’s religions.
Surrendering to Love, Beauty and Peace
A weekend with a Holy Man
Shaykh Muhammad Sa’id al-Jamal ar-Rifa’I ash-Shaduli
WHEN: Friday June 30, 6:30 - 9pm
Saturday and Sunday July 1-2, 9:30 - 5pm
Khalwa- Special Prayer Retreat, Sunday night
WHERE: Divine Word International
2001 Waukegan Rd.
Northbrook, IL
COST : early registration $200 by June 7: after $250
New people / No Tuition, Donations Welcome
FOOD: $39 (3meals) per day / $13 lunch onlyper day;
HOUSING: $37 single w/shared bath,$56 single w/bath, $85 double,
$114 triple per nite
REGISTRTATION and INFO: please call PUREPEACE 773-878-0038
Music of the Soul
Bismallah ar Rahman ar Rahim
In the Name of the Allah the Merciful, the Compassionate
Surrendering to Love, Beauty and Peace
A weekend with a Holy Man
Shaykh Muhammad Sa’id al-Jamal ar-Rifa’I ash-Shaduli
Shaykh Sidi Muhammad al- Jamal is head of the Higher Sufi Council in Jerusalem and the Imam for the Al-Aqsa Mosque , and is the Guide to several million students world wide. As an internationally recognized spiritual teacher and man of peace, he was invited to speak as a featured guest at the United Nations World Peace Summit. His mission is to serve all of humanity, regardless of race, religion, nationality or gender, and to give the LOVE to everyone and not make any separation.
June 30, July 1 and 2, 2006
Northbrook, Illinois
You are invited to experience the wisdom of this internationally renowned teacher and Spiritual Guide Sidi Muhammad al-Jamal.
Sidi, as he is known to his students, has dedicated his entire life to helping people of all faiths to open their hearts to a deeply personal relationship with the Loving Reality that is at the core of all the world’s religions.
Surrendering to Love, Beauty and Peace
A weekend with a Holy Man
Shaykh Muhammad Sa’id al-Jamal ar-Rifa’I ash-Shaduli
WHEN: Friday June 30, 6:30 - 9pm
Saturday and Sunday July 1-2, 9:30 - 5pm
Khalwa- Special Prayer Retreat, Sunday night
WHERE: Divine Word International
2001 Waukegan Rd.
Northbrook, IL
COST : early registration $200 by June 7: after $250
New people / No Tuition, Donations Welcome
FOOD: $39 (3meals) per day / $13 lunch onlyper day;
HOUSING: $37 single w/shared bath,$56 single w/bath, $85 double,
$114 triple per nite
REGISTRTATION and INFO: please call PUREPEACE 773-878-0038
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Four Part Theatrical Presentation on 9/11 slated in LA
Los Angeles' "Belle of Baghdad," Iraqi actress Yasmine Hanani is starring in "Blockbuster! The 9/11 Commission Report (2001)," a dramatization of events leading up to the attacks of September 11. Hanani, the 25 yr-old actress who appeared in Albert Brooks' "Looking for Comedy in the Muslim World," portrays Aysel Senguen a dentristy student and the wife of Ziad Jarrah, one of the four terrorists aboard Flight 93. Hanani recently competed as Miss Iraq in the Miss Asia USA Pagaent, held in Southern California April 29.
Blockbuster! is being presented in four segments showing the key players and their actions year by year, from 1998-2001, relating to the events leading up to 9/11. The final segment starring Hanani is to be presented May 31st at the Nakano Theatre in Southern California.
This segment follows the efforts of U.S. officials in 2001 to determine responsibility for the Cole bombing before striking al Qaeda within Afghanistan, all in the context of a new U.S. president stepping into office. As the fresh administration tries to understand national security concerns, al Qaeda operatives enter the U.S. to commence final preparations. The segment climaxes with highjacked airlines crashing into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
All Americans know what happened on September 11, 2001, but few are aware of the events that took place prior to the attack as detailed in the U.S. government’s The 9-11 Commission Report. "Blockbuster" makes vivid how the attack grew from concept to reality, while America and its allies attempted to fight back.
###
Mitch Zamarin
Director, Entertainment Division
Asbury Communications
9615 Brighton Way
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310.859.1831
310.279.9040 - cell
BLOCKBUSTER! THE 9/11 COMMISSION REPORT (2001)
AT NAKANO THEATRE MAY 31
Works in Progress presents Blockbuster! The 9/11 Commission Report (2001) at Nakano Theatre, Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, on Wednesday, May 31, 7:00 p.m.
Works in Progress presents the original epic work Blockbuster!, a dramatization of events leading up to the attacks of September 11 presented in four segments showing the key players and their actions year by year.
All Americans know what happened on September 11, 2001, but few are aware of the events that took place prior to the attack as detailed in the U.S. government’s The 9/11 Commission Report. Blockbuster! makes vivid how the attack grew from concept to reality, while America and its allies attempted to fight back.
The final segment follows the efforts of U.S. security officials to alert the new Administration to the serious threat posed by al Qaeda in 2001 and the mounting evidence that a catastrophic attack on the American homeland is coming. As the Bush Administration tries to put its policies in order, Osama bin Laden pushes hard to execute the planes operations.
Tickets ($15 adults, $13 students / seniors) are available at the Box Office (310) 781-7171. Parking is free. For information, visit http://www.torrancelive.us/ or call (310) 618-6342.
Works in Progress is a program of the Cultural Services Division of the Torrance Community Services Department.
###
Attached Image: yasminemissiraqeg.jpg
Attached Image: yasminephotoMIssIraq.jpg
Blockbuster! is being presented in four segments showing the key players and their actions year by year, from 1998-2001, relating to the events leading up to 9/11. The final segment starring Hanani is to be presented May 31st at the Nakano Theatre in Southern California.
This segment follows the efforts of U.S. officials in 2001 to determine responsibility for the Cole bombing before striking al Qaeda within Afghanistan, all in the context of a new U.S. president stepping into office. As the fresh administration tries to understand national security concerns, al Qaeda operatives enter the U.S. to commence final preparations. The segment climaxes with highjacked airlines crashing into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
All Americans know what happened on September 11, 2001, but few are aware of the events that took place prior to the attack as detailed in the U.S. government’s The 9-11 Commission Report. "Blockbuster" makes vivid how the attack grew from concept to reality, while America and its allies attempted to fight back.
###
Mitch Zamarin
Director, Entertainment Division
Asbury Communications
9615 Brighton Way
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310.859.1831
310.279.9040 - cell
BLOCKBUSTER! THE 9/11 COMMISSION REPORT (2001)
AT NAKANO THEATRE MAY 31
Works in Progress presents Blockbuster! The 9/11 Commission Report (2001) at Nakano Theatre, Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, on Wednesday, May 31, 7:00 p.m.
Works in Progress presents the original epic work Blockbuster!, a dramatization of events leading up to the attacks of September 11 presented in four segments showing the key players and their actions year by year.
All Americans know what happened on September 11, 2001, but few are aware of the events that took place prior to the attack as detailed in the U.S. government’s The 9/11 Commission Report. Blockbuster! makes vivid how the attack grew from concept to reality, while America and its allies attempted to fight back.
The final segment follows the efforts of U.S. security officials to alert the new Administration to the serious threat posed by al Qaeda in 2001 and the mounting evidence that a catastrophic attack on the American homeland is coming. As the Bush Administration tries to put its policies in order, Osama bin Laden pushes hard to execute the planes operations.
Tickets ($15 adults, $13 students / seniors) are available at the Box Office (310) 781-7171. Parking is free. For information, visit http://www.torrancelive.us/ or call (310) 618-6342.
Works in Progress is a program of the Cultural Services Division of the Torrance Community Services Department.
###
Attached Image: yasminemissiraqeg.jpg
Attached Image: yasminephotoMIssIraq.jpg
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Dearborn Workshop challenges Arab stereotypes May 31
WORKSHOP SEEKS TO DISPELL ARAB AMERICAN STEREOTYPES
--IMAGES AND PERCEPTIONS OF ARAB AMERICANS
Arab Bashing in America: Fact or Fiction
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Warren David
313-999-6000
Siham Awada Jaafar
313-910-1955
DEARBORN, MI, April 28, 2006 –Arab Detroit will host an
educational workshop, "Images and Perceptions of Arab Americans" on Wednesday May 31, 2006 from 8:30am to 2:00pm at the University of Michigan-Dearborn Fairlane Center, 1900 Hubbard Drive, Dearborn, Michigan.
Recent events such as the Danish cartoon and Dubai Ports controversies have made Arab bashing fashionable in America. This workshop will examine the culture and diversity of Detroit’s Arab American community and explore the image of the Arab American in the media and the effects of prejudice and discrimination. Finally this workshop will address vital issues affecting Arab Americans, utilizing humor as a vehicle for confronting stereotypes.
"This workshop goes beyond the everyday headlines and looks at some of the vital and pertinent issues affecting Arab Americans in southeastern Michigan," says Siham Awada Jaafar, Vice President of David Communications and one of the principal organizers of the event. She went on to say, "We are hopeful that participants will have a more accurate understanding of Arab Americans as a result of this informative event."
The workshop presenters include:
Hon. Mary Rose Oakar, former Congresswoman and national President of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) in Washington, D.C.
Ray Hanania, award-winning writer, author and comedian from Chicago.
Dr. Nadine Naber, Assistant Professor of the Program on American Culture and Department of Women’s Studies at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Evelyn Alsultany, Research Investigator on Arab racism for the Program on American Culture at the University of Michigan.
Warren David, President and CEO of David Communications, a multi-cultural public relations and marketing firm with specialization in the Arab American market.
The workshop is expected to attract members of the print and broadcast media, business leaders, human resource directors, diversity program managers, advertising, marketing and communications professionals, educators, municipal and government employees, law enforcement personnel, community leaders and those interested in learning more about Arab Americans.
The registration enrollment fee is $95 per person and includes the workshop, continental breakfast, luncheon and workshop materials.
An optional bonus session will be offered from 2:15pm to 3:30pm and will focus on some of the most commonly used Arabic language phrases.
Arab Detroit is dedicated to the promotion and dissemination of accurate information about Arab Americans through the develop-ment of informative print materials, educational and cultural events and multi-media programming.
For more information contact Arab Detroit at 1-877-ARAB-944 (1-877-272-2944), via email, info@arabdetroit.com or on the world- wide web at, www.arabdetroit.com
Sponsored by:
ArabDetroit
In partnership with:
Center for Arab American Studies--University of Michigan-Dearborn
Detroit Edison
Sprint-Nextel
Davenport University
Comerica Bank
Fairlane Club
With support from:
ADC
The Democratic Party
ACCESS
American Arab Chamber of Commerce
AWARE
Smooth Jazz-98.7FM
(30)
--IMAGES AND PERCEPTIONS OF ARAB AMERICANS
Arab Bashing in America: Fact or Fiction
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Warren David
313-999-6000
Siham Awada Jaafar
313-910-1955
DEARBORN, MI, April 28, 2006 –Arab Detroit will host an
educational workshop, "Images and Perceptions of Arab Americans" on Wednesday May 31, 2006 from 8:30am to 2:00pm at the University of Michigan-Dearborn Fairlane Center, 1900 Hubbard Drive, Dearborn, Michigan.
Recent events such as the Danish cartoon and Dubai Ports controversies have made Arab bashing fashionable in America. This workshop will examine the culture and diversity of Detroit’s Arab American community and explore the image of the Arab American in the media and the effects of prejudice and discrimination. Finally this workshop will address vital issues affecting Arab Americans, utilizing humor as a vehicle for confronting stereotypes.
"This workshop goes beyond the everyday headlines and looks at some of the vital and pertinent issues affecting Arab Americans in southeastern Michigan," says Siham Awada Jaafar, Vice President of David Communications and one of the principal organizers of the event. She went on to say, "We are hopeful that participants will have a more accurate understanding of Arab Americans as a result of this informative event."
The workshop presenters include:
Hon. Mary Rose Oakar, former Congresswoman and national President of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) in Washington, D.C.
Ray Hanania, award-winning writer, author and comedian from Chicago.
Dr. Nadine Naber, Assistant Professor of the Program on American Culture and Department of Women’s Studies at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Evelyn Alsultany, Research Investigator on Arab racism for the Program on American Culture at the University of Michigan.
Warren David, President and CEO of David Communications, a multi-cultural public relations and marketing firm with specialization in the Arab American market.
The workshop is expected to attract members of the print and broadcast media, business leaders, human resource directors, diversity program managers, advertising, marketing and communications professionals, educators, municipal and government employees, law enforcement personnel, community leaders and those interested in learning more about Arab Americans.
The registration enrollment fee is $95 per person and includes the workshop, continental breakfast, luncheon and workshop materials.
An optional bonus session will be offered from 2:15pm to 3:30pm and will focus on some of the most commonly used Arabic language phrases.
Arab Detroit is dedicated to the promotion and dissemination of accurate information about Arab Americans through the develop-ment of informative print materials, educational and cultural events and multi-media programming.
For more information contact Arab Detroit at 1-877-ARAB-944 (1-877-272-2944), via email, info@arabdetroit.com or on the world- wide web at, www.arabdetroit.com
Sponsored by:
ArabDetroit
In partnership with:
Center for Arab American Studies--University of Michigan-Dearborn
Detroit Edison
Sprint-Nextel
Davenport University
Comerica Bank
Fairlane Club
With support from:
ADC
The Democratic Party
ACCESS
American Arab Chamber of Commerce
AWARE
Smooth Jazz-98.7FM
(30)
Arab American TV Online launches
Arab American TV Online launches web access to documentaries and films
Arab American culture is the focus
Chicago -- Documentaries and films on Arab American and Arab World culture are now available on-demand on the Internet through a new web page called Arab American TV Online.
The web page is:
http://www.ArabAmericanTVOnline.com
The first films to be posted are interviews hosted by award winning Arab American journalist Ray Hanania on his monthly Comcast Cable TV program "30 Minutes." Now playing is a 30 minute interview with former Jordanian legislator and Civil Rights activist Ms. Toujan Faisal.
Also posted are 30 minute documentaries on A Walk Through Arab East Jerusalem, a tour of war-ravaged Jenin in the occupied West Bank, and a walk through an Israeli military checkpoint/examination of the apartheid Wall erected by Israel as a means of confiscating Palestinian-owned land as a part of Israel's illegal land and settlement expansion.
"The American media is driven by an anti-Arab and anti-Muslim bias. Most American can't even tell the difference between Palestinians and Pakistanis, a racism that drives this bias that is also reflected in the mainstream news media. The ignorance of most Americans is tragic and a reflection of their lack of education about Middle East issues and the Arab American community," says Hanania, a 30-year veteran of American journalism and twice winner of the Soictey of Professional Journalists/Chicago Headline Club Lisagor Column Writing Awards.
"The Internet gives Arab Americans the opportunity to confront this media bias and help educate Americans about the truth of the Middle East conflict, Arab culture and the Muslim religion. The fact is that most Americans don't even know that the majority of Arabs in America are in fact Christians, and that the Christian population in Palestine is suffering along with Muslims as a result of Israeli oppression and the military occupation."
Hanania says that the web portal Arab American TV Online will present films and documentaries that challenge the biases in the American media and in the greater media of Hollywood films, television and broadcast cable TV.
"Arab Americans only have a limited presence in the media, mainly because of bias that prohibits them from participating fully. They are intentionally excluded by bigots and racists and by unprofessional journalism that pervades the mainstream American media system," Hanania says.
"My objective is to change this and help make journalism the profession of fairness and objectivity that it should be and is not in this country."
END
Arab American culture is the focus
Chicago -- Documentaries and films on Arab American and Arab World culture are now available on-demand on the Internet through a new web page called Arab American TV Online.
The web page is:
http://www.ArabAmericanTVOnline.com
The first films to be posted are interviews hosted by award winning Arab American journalist Ray Hanania on his monthly Comcast Cable TV program "30 Minutes." Now playing is a 30 minute interview with former Jordanian legislator and Civil Rights activist Ms. Toujan Faisal.
Also posted are 30 minute documentaries on A Walk Through Arab East Jerusalem, a tour of war-ravaged Jenin in the occupied West Bank, and a walk through an Israeli military checkpoint/examination of the apartheid Wall erected by Israel as a means of confiscating Palestinian-owned land as a part of Israel's illegal land and settlement expansion.
"The American media is driven by an anti-Arab and anti-Muslim bias. Most American can't even tell the difference between Palestinians and Pakistanis, a racism that drives this bias that is also reflected in the mainstream news media. The ignorance of most Americans is tragic and a reflection of their lack of education about Middle East issues and the Arab American community," says Hanania, a 30-year veteran of American journalism and twice winner of the Soictey of Professional Journalists/Chicago Headline Club Lisagor Column Writing Awards.
"The Internet gives Arab Americans the opportunity to confront this media bias and help educate Americans about the truth of the Middle East conflict, Arab culture and the Muslim religion. The fact is that most Americans don't even know that the majority of Arabs in America are in fact Christians, and that the Christian population in Palestine is suffering along with Muslims as a result of Israeli oppression and the military occupation."
Hanania says that the web portal Arab American TV Online will present films and documentaries that challenge the biases in the American media and in the greater media of Hollywood films, television and broadcast cable TV.
"Arab Americans only have a limited presence in the media, mainly because of bias that prohibits them from participating fully. They are intentionally excluded by bigots and racists and by unprofessional journalism that pervades the mainstream American media system," Hanania says.
"My objective is to change this and help make journalism the profession of fairness and objectivity that it should be and is not in this country."
END
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Commemoration of actor Ahmed Zaki
tribute to legendary actor Ahmed Zaki
Tuesday, April 25, 6:30 PM
Cantor Film Center, 36 East 8 Street
Please join us for a special tribute to legendary actor Ahmed Zaki on the first anniversary of his death
HIS EXCELLENCY, THE MINISTR (Maali al-Wazir)by Samir Seif.
Egypt, 2003, 120 min, 35 mmUS PremiereIn his last film to be screened commercially before his death, the impossibly talented Ahmed Zaki takes us to the dark world of official corruption in Egypt.
In the film His Excellency, The Minister, Zaki brilliantly plays the part of Mr. Rustom, who after being mistakenly appointed to the ministerial cabinet due to a confusion of names, uses his position of power to illegally amass a huge fortune.
The film investigates the price that Mr. Rustom pays for such power manipulation, which ultimately leads him to suffer from intense alienation from his family and friends. Through the tribulations of Rustom, the film takes an audacious and critical stance towards the current political situation in Egypt. In Arabic with English subtitles.
Post-screening discussion with Karim Tertousieh (NYU) and Mona Eltahawy (journalist, NYC)Arte News's April issue is dedicated to Zaki and his legacy. Read new and recently translated articles and reviews about the life and legacy of Zaki as well as his filmography and biography by visiting
www.arteeast.org
==================
General admission $9; Student admission $7For your convenience, you may purchase tickets online at
http://www.arteeast.org/cinemaeast/
spring06/ce_tickets_spring06.html
A CINEMA EAST FILM SCREENINGPresented by AretEast, the Department of Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies, and the Kevorkian Center at NYU Present:
=================
UPCOMING:ArteEast and the Film Society of Lincoln Center Present:A RETROSPECTIVE OF SYRIAN CINEMA. MAY 5-18, 2006More details coming soon.
=========================
Cinema East is a collaborative project of ArteEast, Inc., the Department of Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies and the Kevorkian Center at NYU. This program is supported in part by the New York State Council on the Arts and New York City's Department of Cultural Affairs. It is sponsored by the American University of Beirut and The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee's New York Chapter. Additional support is provided by Persian Arts Festival, the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, and Print Icon.
==================
ArteEast490 Third Street, #2Brooklyn, NY 11215Tel & Fax: 718 832 6564Email: info@arteeast.orgwww.arteeast.org
Tuesday, April 25, 6:30 PM
Cantor Film Center, 36 East 8 Street
Please join us for a special tribute to legendary actor Ahmed Zaki on the first anniversary of his death
HIS EXCELLENCY, THE MINISTR (Maali al-Wazir)by Samir Seif.
Egypt, 2003, 120 min, 35 mmUS PremiereIn his last film to be screened commercially before his death, the impossibly talented Ahmed Zaki takes us to the dark world of official corruption in Egypt.
In the film His Excellency, The Minister, Zaki brilliantly plays the part of Mr. Rustom, who after being mistakenly appointed to the ministerial cabinet due to a confusion of names, uses his position of power to illegally amass a huge fortune.
The film investigates the price that Mr. Rustom pays for such power manipulation, which ultimately leads him to suffer from intense alienation from his family and friends. Through the tribulations of Rustom, the film takes an audacious and critical stance towards the current political situation in Egypt. In Arabic with English subtitles.
Post-screening discussion with Karim Tertousieh (NYU) and Mona Eltahawy (journalist, NYC)Arte News's April issue is dedicated to Zaki and his legacy. Read new and recently translated articles and reviews about the life and legacy of Zaki as well as his filmography and biography by visiting
www.arteeast.org
==================
General admission $9; Student admission $7For your convenience, you may purchase tickets online at
http://www.arteeast.org/cinemaeast/
spring06/ce_tickets_spring06.html
A CINEMA EAST FILM SCREENINGPresented by AretEast, the Department of Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies, and the Kevorkian Center at NYU Present:
=================
UPCOMING:ArteEast and the Film Society of Lincoln Center Present:A RETROSPECTIVE OF SYRIAN CINEMA. MAY 5-18, 2006More details coming soon.
=========================
Cinema East is a collaborative project of ArteEast, Inc., the Department of Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies and the Kevorkian Center at NYU. This program is supported in part by the New York State Council on the Arts and New York City's Department of Cultural Affairs. It is sponsored by the American University of Beirut and The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee's New York Chapter. Additional support is provided by Persian Arts Festival, the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, and Print Icon.
==================
ArteEast490 Third Street, #2Brooklyn, NY 11215Tel & Fax: 718 832 6564Email: info@arteeast.orgwww.arteeast.org
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Chicagoland Independent Middle East Film & Comedy Festival Oct. 7-8, 2006
Independent Middle East Film & Comedy Festival
Chicago, October 7 and 8, 2006.
More than 24 films will be screened. Entries that include films, documentaries and comedies that address any aspect of the Middle East can be submitted for judging and screening.
The festival is hosted by the Southwest Arab American Coalition, the National Arab American Journalists Association (Chicago Chapter), The Future News Newspaper, and al-Offok al-Arabi Newspaper.
Screenings will be held on Saturday Oct. 7, 2006 and Sunday Oct. 8, 2006 at the Bridgeview Community Center Theater (seating 450).
Categories include:
Film: Under 15 minutes, 16-45 Minutes; 46-90 Minutes
Documentary: Under 15 minutes, 16-45 Minutes; 46-90 Minutes
Comedy/Humor: Under 15 minutes, 16-45 Minutes; 46-90 Minutes
Miscellaneous (PSAs, Advertising, Commercials, other) (Under 5 minutes only)
Submission deadline (Postmarked) August 15, 2006.
Finalists will be notified by email Sept. 15, 2006. Entry fee is $45. Download and complete the entry submission form.
The Festival is also seeking comedians who wish to appear as emcees introducing submission entries. Any interested comedian or performer should send a Demo Tape to: Hanania Enterprises Ltd., PO Box 2127, Orland Park, IL., 60462.
The festival is seeking mainly performers who live in the Midwest, but performers from other regions are also welcome to submit a request to perform. Comedians who use foul language, swear or use offensive religious references will be eliminated from consideration. All comedy performances must be family oriented.
For more information, visit: www.hanania.com/cimeff.htm (Please circulate widely) This festival is open to ALL filmmakers, producers and screenwriters of all races, nationality of religions. All entries will be considered.
END
Friday, March 31, 2006
AMANA announces Knowing Islam Contest
SECOND ANNUAL AMANA COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
"Bringing Communities Together" A Mission of AMANA
Saturday & Sunday April 15-16, 2006
(Sat. 11:00AM to 9:00PM & Sun. 11:00AM to 6:00PM)
Location at: MASJID AL-MUMINEEN
3222 Holiday Springs Blvd., Margate, FL 33063, Tel. 954-575-3872
The First Exhibit of its kind on:
"Pakistan Earthquake"
(AMER, American Muslims for Emergency & Relief, Inc.
With the association of "BAITULMAAL" will present a unique Exhibit on
"Pakistan Earthquake" at the AMANA Festival.)
- Rides for the kids, Free Toys & Candies, Games, Sports &
Lots of Fun for the entire Family.
- Islamic Market-Great Products for Sale
- Tickets $5.00 /Donation/Meal
(Proceeds will go to purchase Qur’an, books and out reach efforts)
* SPONSORS AND VENDORS ARE WELCOMED.
Contact us: (305) 898-9314
For More Information and for tickets Contact:
(Br. Sofian, AMANA 305-898-9314), (Br. Yazid, Masjid Al-Mumineen 954-977-6753), (Br. Rashid, AMANA 954-647-0306), (Br. Shazam, Masjid Shamsuddin 305-502-5585), (Br. Osman, Masjid Al Mutaqeen 954-593-2751), (Br. Bassam, Masjid Al Iman )(Br. M. Sanhaji, Masjid ICBR 561-436-2756), (Br. Shabir, Masjid Miami Gardens 305-624-5555), (Br. Moen, IMOF 954-963-9154), (Br. Rashid AMANA 954-647-0306), Sister Safiya, Al-Mumineen 954-600-6848), (Sister Rafee, Al-Mumineen 954-984-4571), (Br. Nael Pompano Masjid 954-274-0111)
Event by: AMANA, The American Muslim Association of North America
http://www.al-amana.org/ info@al-amana.org
Media Contact Br. Sofian Abdelaziz, Tel. (305) 898-9314
The American Muslim Association of North America, AMANA Proudly Serving the U. S. Communities Since 1992 (A Member in the "Florida SAC", Florida State Advisory Committee tothe United States Commission on Civil Rights){The Islamic Center for Reaching & Preaching} Al-AMANA Voice HEAD OFFICE MIAMI / FLORIDA: P. O. Box 5212, Miami, FL 33014 USA Tel. 305-898-9314, Fax. 305-945-0399 E-mail: info@al-amana.org ~ www.al-amana.org
MICHIGAN OFFICE7642 Calhoun Street, Dearborn, MI 48126Tel: 313-531-9210, e-mail: dhomasey@sbcglobal.net
PUERTO RICO OFFICEP. O. Box 140494, Arecibo, Puerto Rico 00614 Tel. 787-879-5425, e-mail : amanaPR@hotmail.com
CONNECTICUT OFFICE163 Elmhurst St., West Hartford, CT 06110Tel. 860-216-6211, E-mail: wruizlaw@yahoo.com To Subscribe or Un-Subscribe from Al-AMANA e-mail list: www.al-amana.org/subscribe.php
"Bringing Communities Together." A mission of AMANA
FIRST CONTEST:
50 Questions on Islam
(The Questions are in the Back of this flyer)
1st Prize $75.00,2nd Prize $50.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00
SECOND CONTEST:
Cake Baking & Decorating Contest
(Home Made Round or Square Cakes)
"No Store Bought Cake – please"
1st Prize $50.00, 2nd Prize $25.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00
THIRD CONTEST:
Hand Drawn Picture of Any of the three Holy Mosques:
(Color Pencil or Crayon)
Size – 14 x 17 Constructions Paper
1st Prize $25.00, 2nd Prize $25.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00
At the AMANA Festival: Masjid Jamaat Al-Mu’mineen / Tel. 954-575-3872
3222 Holiday Springs Blvd., Margate, FL 33063 (West Sample Rd.)
All work must be submitted by:
Saturday, 4/15/2006 before 3:00PM
Prizes Awarded: Sunday, 4/16/2006 at 5:00 PM
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact: Sr. Safiya Tel. 954-600-6848
Or AMANA at: 305-898-9314 or 954-647-0306
"Bringing communities together is AMANA mission"
The American Muslim Association of North America, AMANA
http://www.al-amana.org
50 QUESTIONS ON ISLAM
(Please Submit your Answers with your Name, Address and Phone Number)
(1st Prize $75.00, 2nd Prize $50.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00)
1- What is Da’wah means?
2- How many Surah (Verse) are there in the Qur’an?
3- How many Ayah are there in the longest Surah?
4- Which is the longest Surah?
5- How many Ayah is there in the shortest Surah?
6- What is the sin that Allah will claim war against who committed?
7- Where was the Prophet Muhammad born?
8- Name the prophet’s father?
9- What is Sunnah?
10- Can Angels do anything without permission of Allah?
11- Why Islam prohibit "Back Biting"?
12- How old was the prophet when he died?
13- What was the most important characteristic of the prophet’s first wife?
14- What did the prophet do to earn his living as a young man?
15- Who the most qualified to lead the prayer according to our prophet Hadith.
16- It is OK to read the Qur’an without understand it! True False
17- How old was the Prophet when his mother died?
18- How old was the prophet when Allah’s first message of Qur’an revealed to him?
19- Where was Allah’s first message of Qur’an revealed to the Prophet Muhammad
20- What did Khadeejah answer after the prophet told her of the first revelation?
21- Who were the first to accept Islam?
22- Who was the closest to the prophet and one of the most hostile?
23- What is AL-Isra and Al-Mi-rag ?
24- What does faith (Iman) mean?
25- People are questioned in the grave by two Angels. True or False?
26- What make the Halal meat Halal?
27- What are the Angels who write the deeds of everybody called?
28- What is the meaning of Al-Jabbar mentioned in the last two verses of Surah Al-Hashr?
29- Does Islam permit to keep statues at the house?
30- True or False: It is Haram to not speak with your Muslim brother after a fight more than three days.
31- True or False: Muslims should be respectful to their non-Muslim parents even if
they are arguing with them to renounce Islam.
32- Is smoking tobacco Haram?
33- True or False: the Prophet (PBUH) said: "The most perfect believers are the best in conduct and
the best of you are those who are best to their wives."
34- True or False: Mistreatment of Muslim women occurs when traditions and extremism end become
more important than following the teaching of Islam.
35- How the mother of the believers ‘Aisha (RAA) contributed to Islam?
36- When did Prophet Mohammad visited Jerusalem?
37- What was the capital of Spain during the Islamic Rule?
38- Who are the Righteous Caliphs?
39- Was prophet Isa (Jesus) (AS) crucified and killed?
40- Who is the mother of Prophet Isa?
41- What are Allah’s signs which Prophet Musa (AS) used to convince the pharaoh?
42- How many prophet s have Allah mentioned by name in His Qur’an?
43- Continue the following hadith of the prophet (PBUH): "You will not believe unless you love..
44- What is the greatest sin of all?
45- What should the listener do when hearing the Azan?
46- What is Salat Al Duha?
47- What is the meaning of Al Rahman Al Raheem?
49- What is the heaviest word to Allah?
50- Did any of the Prophets claim to be God?
END
"Bringing Communities Together" A Mission of AMANA
Saturday & Sunday April 15-16, 2006
(Sat. 11:00AM to 9:00PM & Sun. 11:00AM to 6:00PM)
Location at: MASJID AL-MUMINEEN
3222 Holiday Springs Blvd., Margate, FL 33063, Tel. 954-575-3872
The First Exhibit of its kind on:
"Pakistan Earthquake"
(AMER, American Muslims for Emergency & Relief, Inc.
With the association of "BAITULMAAL" will present a unique Exhibit on
"Pakistan Earthquake" at the AMANA Festival.)
- Rides for the kids, Free Toys & Candies, Games, Sports &
Lots of Fun for the entire Family.
- Islamic Market-Great Products for Sale
- Tickets $5.00 /Donation/Meal
(Proceeds will go to purchase Qur’an, books and out reach efforts)
* SPONSORS AND VENDORS ARE WELCOMED.
Contact us: (305) 898-9314
For More Information and for tickets Contact:
(Br. Sofian, AMANA 305-898-9314), (Br. Yazid, Masjid Al-Mumineen 954-977-6753), (Br. Rashid, AMANA 954-647-0306), (Br. Shazam, Masjid Shamsuddin 305-502-5585), (Br. Osman, Masjid Al Mutaqeen 954-593-2751), (Br. Bassam, Masjid Al Iman )(Br. M. Sanhaji, Masjid ICBR 561-436-2756), (Br. Shabir, Masjid Miami Gardens 305-624-5555), (Br. Moen, IMOF 954-963-9154), (Br. Rashid AMANA 954-647-0306), Sister Safiya, Al-Mumineen 954-600-6848), (Sister Rafee, Al-Mumineen 954-984-4571), (Br. Nael Pompano Masjid 954-274-0111)
Event by: AMANA, The American Muslim Association of North America
http://www.al-amana.org/ info@al-amana.org
Media Contact Br. Sofian Abdelaziz, Tel. (305) 898-9314
The American Muslim Association of North America, AMANA Proudly Serving the U. S. Communities Since 1992 (A Member in the "Florida SAC", Florida State Advisory Committee tothe United States Commission on Civil Rights){The Islamic Center for Reaching & Preaching} Al-AMANA Voice HEAD OFFICE MIAMI / FLORIDA: P. O. Box 5212, Miami, FL 33014 USA Tel. 305-898-9314, Fax. 305-945-0399 E-mail: info@al-amana.org ~ www.al-amana.org
MICHIGAN OFFICE7642 Calhoun Street, Dearborn, MI 48126Tel: 313-531-9210, e-mail: dhomasey@sbcglobal.net
PUERTO RICO OFFICEP. O. Box 140494, Arecibo, Puerto Rico 00614 Tel. 787-879-5425, e-mail : amanaPR@hotmail.com
CONNECTICUT OFFICE163 Elmhurst St., West Hartford, CT 06110Tel. 860-216-6211, E-mail: wruizlaw@yahoo.com To Subscribe or Un-Subscribe from Al-AMANA e-mail list: www.al-amana.org/subscribe.php
"Bringing Communities Together." A mission of AMANA
FIRST CONTEST:
50 Questions on Islam
(The Questions are in the Back of this flyer)
1st Prize $75.00,2nd Prize $50.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00
SECOND CONTEST:
Cake Baking & Decorating Contest
(Home Made Round or Square Cakes)
"No Store Bought Cake – please"
1st Prize $50.00, 2nd Prize $25.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00
THIRD CONTEST:
Hand Drawn Picture of Any of the three Holy Mosques:
(Color Pencil or Crayon)
Size – 14 x 17 Constructions Paper
1st Prize $25.00, 2nd Prize $25.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00
At the AMANA Festival: Masjid Jamaat Al-Mu’mineen / Tel. 954-575-3872
3222 Holiday Springs Blvd., Margate, FL 33063 (West Sample Rd.)
All work must be submitted by:
Saturday, 4/15/2006 before 3:00PM
Prizes Awarded: Sunday, 4/16/2006 at 5:00 PM
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact: Sr. Safiya Tel. 954-600-6848
Or AMANA at: 305-898-9314 or 954-647-0306
"Bringing communities together is AMANA mission"
The American Muslim Association of North America, AMANA
http://www.al-amana.org
50 QUESTIONS ON ISLAM
(Please Submit your Answers with your Name, Address and Phone Number)
(1st Prize $75.00, 2nd Prize $50.00 & 3rd Prize $25.00)
1- What is Da’wah means?
2- How many Surah (Verse) are there in the Qur’an?
3- How many Ayah are there in the longest Surah?
4- Which is the longest Surah?
5- How many Ayah is there in the shortest Surah?
6- What is the sin that Allah will claim war against who committed?
7- Where was the Prophet Muhammad born?
8- Name the prophet’s father?
9- What is Sunnah?
10- Can Angels do anything without permission of Allah?
11- Why Islam prohibit "Back Biting"?
12- How old was the prophet when he died?
13- What was the most important characteristic of the prophet’s first wife?
14- What did the prophet do to earn his living as a young man?
15- Who the most qualified to lead the prayer according to our prophet Hadith.
16- It is OK to read the Qur’an without understand it! True False
17- How old was the Prophet when his mother died?
18- How old was the prophet when Allah’s first message of Qur’an revealed to him?
19- Where was Allah’s first message of Qur’an revealed to the Prophet Muhammad
20- What did Khadeejah answer after the prophet told her of the first revelation?
21- Who were the first to accept Islam?
22- Who was the closest to the prophet and one of the most hostile?
23- What is AL-Isra and Al-Mi-rag ?
24- What does faith (Iman) mean?
25- People are questioned in the grave by two Angels. True or False?
26- What make the Halal meat Halal?
27- What are the Angels who write the deeds of everybody called?
28- What is the meaning of Al-Jabbar mentioned in the last two verses of Surah Al-Hashr?
29- Does Islam permit to keep statues at the house?
30- True or False: It is Haram to not speak with your Muslim brother after a fight more than three days.
31- True or False: Muslims should be respectful to their non-Muslim parents even if
they are arguing with them to renounce Islam.
32- Is smoking tobacco Haram?
33- True or False: the Prophet (PBUH) said: "The most perfect believers are the best in conduct and
the best of you are those who are best to their wives."
34- True or False: Mistreatment of Muslim women occurs when traditions and extremism end become
more important than following the teaching of Islam.
35- How the mother of the believers ‘Aisha (RAA) contributed to Islam?
36- When did Prophet Mohammad visited Jerusalem?
37- What was the capital of Spain during the Islamic Rule?
38- Who are the Righteous Caliphs?
39- Was prophet Isa (Jesus) (AS) crucified and killed?
40- Who is the mother of Prophet Isa?
41- What are Allah’s signs which Prophet Musa (AS) used to convince the pharaoh?
42- How many prophet s have Allah mentioned by name in His Qur’an?
43- Continue the following hadith of the prophet (PBUH): "You will not believe unless you love..
44- What is the greatest sin of all?
45- What should the listener do when hearing the Azan?
46- What is Salat Al Duha?
47- What is the meaning of Al Rahman Al Raheem?
49- What is the heaviest word to Allah?
50- Did any of the Prophets claim to be God?
END
Friday, March 24, 2006
US House condemns Detroit News for anti-Arab bias
House Resolution condemns anti-Palestinian column in Detroit News
Released March 23, 2006
Contact: Osama Siblani / 313-582-4888
LANSING - State Representative LaMar Lemmons III has introduced House Resolution 214, condemning a recent anti-Palestinian column in the Detroit News by the newspaper's editorial page editor, Nolan Finley. The resolution also calls for an apology from Finley.
The resolution draws attention to the dehumanizing, cruel and discriminatory comments made by Finley, who refers in the column to all Palestinians as bloodthirsty through such blanket prejudicial statements as "Palestinian lust for Jewish blood is stronger than their desire for peace" and "terrorism is the history of the Palestinian people."
Lemmons, an African American who represents Detroit's far east side, said he felt disgust and anger when he first read the column. "Nolan Finley's generalization of all Palestinians as terrorists is reminiscent of many stereotypes that my people have been victimized by," he said.
"History is riddled with tyrants who have painted with a broad brush to negatively characterize entire groups and races of people," he added. "I think it's time to say we as a society are more humane and intelligent than one would guess from this column. I presented this resolution to say I believe it¹s time we all stand together to show our revulsion for this rhetoric because an attack against one is an attack against us all."
The Congress of Arab American Organizations in Michigan (CAAO), representing more than forty organizations, called last week for continued pressure on the Detroit News until the issue is resolved.
"We support Resolution 214 and thank the representatives for their action on this very important issue," said CAAO president Abed Hammoud.
The resolution has been referred to the Government and Operations Committee. It was co-sponsored by Representatives Lemmons, Jr. (father of Lemmons III), George Cushingberry, Jr., Matthew Gillard, Alexander C. Lipsey, Fred Miller, Barbara Farrah, and Gino Polidori.
###
Released March 23, 2006
Contact: Osama Siblani / 313-582-4888
LANSING - State Representative LaMar Lemmons III has introduced House Resolution 214, condemning a recent anti-Palestinian column in the Detroit News by the newspaper's editorial page editor, Nolan Finley. The resolution also calls for an apology from Finley.
The resolution draws attention to the dehumanizing, cruel and discriminatory comments made by Finley, who refers in the column to all Palestinians as bloodthirsty through such blanket prejudicial statements as "Palestinian lust for Jewish blood is stronger than their desire for peace" and "terrorism is the history of the Palestinian people."
Lemmons, an African American who represents Detroit's far east side, said he felt disgust and anger when he first read the column. "Nolan Finley's generalization of all Palestinians as terrorists is reminiscent of many stereotypes that my people have been victimized by," he said.
"History is riddled with tyrants who have painted with a broad brush to negatively characterize entire groups and races of people," he added. "I think it's time to say we as a society are more humane and intelligent than one would guess from this column. I presented this resolution to say I believe it¹s time we all stand together to show our revulsion for this rhetoric because an attack against one is an attack against us all."
The Congress of Arab American Organizations in Michigan (CAAO), representing more than forty organizations, called last week for continued pressure on the Detroit News until the issue is resolved.
"We support Resolution 214 and thank the representatives for their action on this very important issue," said CAAO president Abed Hammoud.
The resolution has been referred to the Government and Operations Committee. It was co-sponsored by Representatives Lemmons, Jr. (father of Lemmons III), George Cushingberry, Jr., Matthew Gillard, Alexander C. Lipsey, Fred Miller, Barbara Farrah, and Gino Polidori.
###
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
CAIR urges release of Afghan who faces death penalty for converting from Islam to Christianity
CAIR CALLS FOR RELEASE OF AFGHAN CHRISTIAN
Islamic civil rights group says conversion a personal, not state matter
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 3/22/2006) - A prominent national Islamic civil rights and advocacy group today called on the government of Afghanistan to release Abdul Rahman, a man facing the death penalty for converting from Islam to Christianity.
The Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) says the man's conversion is a personal matter not subject to the intervention of the state. SEE: Afghan Christian Could Face Death
In its statement, CAIR said:"Islamic scholars say the original rulings on apostasy were similar to those for treasonous acts in legal systems worldwide and do not apply to an individual's choice of religion. Islam advocates both freedom of religion and freedom of conscience, a position supported by verses in the Quran, Islam's revealed text, such as:1) 'If it had been the will of your Lord that all the people of the world should be believers, all the people of the earth would have believed! Would you then compel mankind against their will to believe?' (10:99)2) '(O Prophet) proclaim: 'This is the Truth from your Lord. Now let him who will, believe in it, and him who will, deny it.'' (18:29)3) 'If they turn away from thee (O Muhammad) they should know that We have not sent you to be their keeper. Your only duty is to convey My message.' (42:48)4) 'Let there be no compulsion in religion.' (2:256)"
Religious decisions should be matters of personal choice, not a cause for state intervention. Faith imposed by force is not true belief, but coercion. Islam has no need to compel belief in its divine truth. As the Quran states: 'Truth stands out clear from error. Therefore, whoever rejects evil and believes in God has grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold that never breaks.' (2:256)
"We urge the government of Afghanistan to order the immediate release of Mr. Abdul Rahman."
Before issuing its statement, CAIR consulted with members of the Fiqh Council of North America, an association of Islamic legal scholars that interprets Muslim religious law.CAIR, America's largest Muslim civil liberties group, has 32 offices, chapters and affiliates nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
- END -
CONTACT: Ibrahim Hooper, 202-488-8787 or 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair-net.org;
Rabiah Ahmed, 202-488-8787 or 202-439-1441, E-Mail: rahmed@cair-net.org
CAIR
Council on American-Islamic Relations
453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.Washington, D.C. 20003
Tel: 202-488-8787, 202-744-7726Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: cair@cair-net.orgURL: http://www.cair-net.org
Islamic civil rights group says conversion a personal, not state matter
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 3/22/2006) - A prominent national Islamic civil rights and advocacy group today called on the government of Afghanistan to release Abdul Rahman, a man facing the death penalty for converting from Islam to Christianity.
The Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) says the man's conversion is a personal matter not subject to the intervention of the state. SEE: Afghan Christian Could Face Death
In its statement, CAIR said:"Islamic scholars say the original rulings on apostasy were similar to those for treasonous acts in legal systems worldwide and do not apply to an individual's choice of religion. Islam advocates both freedom of religion and freedom of conscience, a position supported by verses in the Quran, Islam's revealed text, such as:1) 'If it had been the will of your Lord that all the people of the world should be believers, all the people of the earth would have believed! Would you then compel mankind against their will to believe?' (10:99)2) '(O Prophet) proclaim: 'This is the Truth from your Lord. Now let him who will, believe in it, and him who will, deny it.'' (18:29)3) 'If they turn away from thee (O Muhammad) they should know that We have not sent you to be their keeper. Your only duty is to convey My message.' (42:48)4) 'Let there be no compulsion in religion.' (2:256)"
Religious decisions should be matters of personal choice, not a cause for state intervention. Faith imposed by force is not true belief, but coercion. Islam has no need to compel belief in its divine truth. As the Quran states: 'Truth stands out clear from error. Therefore, whoever rejects evil and believes in God has grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold that never breaks.' (2:256)
"We urge the government of Afghanistan to order the immediate release of Mr. Abdul Rahman."
Before issuing its statement, CAIR consulted with members of the Fiqh Council of North America, an association of Islamic legal scholars that interprets Muslim religious law.CAIR, America's largest Muslim civil liberties group, has 32 offices, chapters and affiliates nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
- END -
CONTACT: Ibrahim Hooper, 202-488-8787 or 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair-net.org;
Rabiah Ahmed, 202-488-8787 or 202-439-1441, E-Mail: rahmed@cair-net.org
CAIR
Council on American-Islamic Relations
453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.Washington, D.C. 20003
Tel: 202-488-8787, 202-744-7726Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: cair@cair-net.orgURL: http://www.cair-net.org
IBDAA Tours US -- Palestinian refugee camp near Bethlehem discusses health issues
Two Chicago-area opportunities to hear about health care projects serving Palestinian refugees in Bethlehem s Dheisheh refugee camp!
The Ibdaa Health Committee U.S. Tour
Thursday April 6 and Friday April 7, 2006 (A free-will donation will be accepted to support healthcare programs at Dheisheh camp; please bring your checkbook!)
* * *
Thursday April 67pm refreshments; 7:30 Powerpoint presentationGrace Lutheran Church, River Forest(Enter from Bonnie Brae)7300 Division StreetRiver Forest, IL 60305
Information: 312/427-2533 x18 or 708/366-6900
Friday April 7Noon-1pmNorthwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine The Lurie Research Building (on Fairbanks Ave. between Huron and Superior Sts.) Searle Auditorium (ground floor, Huron side)
Information: 312/731-2727
About the Ibdaa Heath Committee
The Ibdaa Health Committee was founded in June 2003 in Dheisheh Refugee Camp (Bethlehem, Palestine), in response to urgent needs of the population whose health and mental health needs were not being met. The committee is comprised of volunteer health and mental health professionals, including nurses, physicians, social workers, and others. Three representatives of the Ibdaa Health Committee will visit the Chicago area over two days in April as part of a multi-city US tour. While in the Chicago area, they will hold two public presentations about their work among refugees and promote support for their projects-in-development to improve healthcare in diabetes, cancer, ophthalmology, women s health and mental health. On the tour, the committee representatives will have site visits to observe how health and mental health services are delivered to stressed populations, especially economically-challenged patients who experience violence in their environments. In addition, they will establish mentoring relationships with American health professionals.
* * *Ibdaa Health Committee tour delegates:
Areej Jafari (f)Areej is the coordinator of the Women's Committee of the Ibdaa Health Committee, in which capacity she organizes educational programs and other activities for women such as English and computer classes, and empowerment and leadership training for female youth.
Wisam Hasanat (m)Wisam is director of the Ibdaa Health Committee. He received his practical nursing degree in Hebron; he is currently completing his BSN at Al Quds University. He works at Bethlehem Arab Society for Rehabilitation and Surgery. His specialty areas include surgical and emergency care, including patients wounded by assaults, gunshots, and explosions. He also provides psychological support services to the families of political prisoners.
Talal Shihada (m)Talal is a founding member of the Ibdaa Health Committee and currently serves as the Director of Public Relations. A nurse with more than 17 years of experience, Talal is currently working toward am advanced nursing degree at Bethlehem University and an MA in Public Health at Al Quds University. He currently works at Beit Jala General Hospital, where his specialty areas include surgical and emergency care and pediatrics.
* * *
The Ibdaa Health Committee U.S. Tour
Thursday April 6 and Friday April 7, 2006 (A free-will donation will be accepted to support healthcare programs at Dheisheh camp; please bring your checkbook!)
* * *
Thursday April 67pm refreshments; 7:30 Powerpoint presentationGrace Lutheran Church, River Forest(Enter from Bonnie Brae)7300 Division StreetRiver Forest, IL 60305
Information: 312/427-2533 x18 or 708/366-6900
Friday April 7Noon-1pmNorthwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine The Lurie Research Building (on Fairbanks Ave. between Huron and Superior Sts.) Searle Auditorium (ground floor, Huron side)
Information: 312/731-2727
About the Ibdaa Heath Committee
The Ibdaa Health Committee was founded in June 2003 in Dheisheh Refugee Camp (Bethlehem, Palestine), in response to urgent needs of the population whose health and mental health needs were not being met. The committee is comprised of volunteer health and mental health professionals, including nurses, physicians, social workers, and others. Three representatives of the Ibdaa Health Committee will visit the Chicago area over two days in April as part of a multi-city US tour. While in the Chicago area, they will hold two public presentations about their work among refugees and promote support for their projects-in-development to improve healthcare in diabetes, cancer, ophthalmology, women s health and mental health. On the tour, the committee representatives will have site visits to observe how health and mental health services are delivered to stressed populations, especially economically-challenged patients who experience violence in their environments. In addition, they will establish mentoring relationships with American health professionals.
* * *Ibdaa Health Committee tour delegates:
Areej Jafari (f)Areej is the coordinator of the Women's Committee of the Ibdaa Health Committee, in which capacity she organizes educational programs and other activities for women such as English and computer classes, and empowerment and leadership training for female youth.
Wisam Hasanat (m)Wisam is director of the Ibdaa Health Committee. He received his practical nursing degree in Hebron; he is currently completing his BSN at Al Quds University. He works at Bethlehem Arab Society for Rehabilitation and Surgery. His specialty areas include surgical and emergency care, including patients wounded by assaults, gunshots, and explosions. He also provides psychological support services to the families of political prisoners.
Talal Shihada (m)Talal is a founding member of the Ibdaa Health Committee and currently serves as the Director of Public Relations. A nurse with more than 17 years of experience, Talal is currently working toward am advanced nursing degree at Bethlehem University and an MA in Public Health at Al Quds University. He currently works at Beit Jala General Hospital, where his specialty areas include surgical and emergency care and pediatrics.
* * *
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