YOUR VOICES
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EgyptMarwa
Cairobasmallah@hotmail.com
Dear Illinois,
Israel never hurt America as much as America work for Israel business and gave
her more money and modern military technology. Israel take permission from USA
to do any thing with her Arab neighbor, kill kids and women and let America
involves in Iraq war. Just for Israel sake, no matter for Americans died there
and Iraqi people. let Mr bush ask Israel to do something it didn't want, as
respect Arab Palestinian kids right and humanity, and watch what Israel
reaction, if America stand in face off any Israelis desires.
yemenstudent
taizosama-5611@hotmail.com
hello I'm Hammam from Yemen I want speak with American
egyptsara kira
cairomissykira777@hotmail.com
I'm Sara Kira and I'm inviting any American who'd like to know more about Egypt
or any Arab culture on my msn as my email is provided but I've two points to
mention:
-we don't know much about bin laden
- the US who created bin laden back to political history and the cold war)
- government is different from the people
- politics doesn't really care about the ugly image of the Arabs all what they
care about is the cash!
- being an Arab or Muslim is not equal to being terrorist. by the way terrorism
has no nationality or religion ,because what you may do I may see it terrorism
in a way and if the Palestinians could have the power and money to do the 9/11
attacks they could bomb Israel first because it's the one occupying their land
and not America.
I agree with the post mentioned the suggestion of what if we change places with
the Americans or even the Israelis ,,how would you feel? put yourself in our
position where you have no country, didn't the Jews suffer the same in their
history and made of the holocaust a tragedy so what would we make now of
Palestine, it's a tragedy too believe me, have some sympathy and in all cases
violence is never accepted but do you call a stone terrorism and do not call
rockets and guns pointed to your heads and destroying your houses terrorism, or
is it ok? Jesus is coming back people and he's coming back in Palestine as
mentioned in Islam and Christianity. do you know that Muslims believe in all
prophets and religions and whoever attacks any other religion is not considered
a Muslim? do you know that Islam is tolerance? the true meaning of tolerance is
in the quraan take a look at it's chapters
please make a difference between some minorities' actions and true people!
welcoming any reply
egyptsara kira
missykira777@hotmail.com
hello Mrs.Samar:
I'm Sara kira a student in Cairo university faculty of art English department
third year, the class we had your honorable visit to. the impact you left on m
that day of your visit will keep affecting me as long as I live, you managed to
enter my heart as you did with many other people and that's of how nice and
cultured you are ,am so grateful to you for the information you gave us that
day, god bless you. I watched you tonight on the Egyptian television channel
two, I'm very proud that there's an Arab woman like you and as you said under
the cover there're lots of women who think the same way you do we're just not
revealed and our voices don't reach but that why am here posting my comment and
I consider it a terrific job that you do too to reach our voices to the other. I
don't like to use the word "the other" because eat makes me feel that am talking
about any thing else but human beings, being an American or Egyptian or whatever
at the end we 're all human beings who appreciate the meaning of peace and not
only hearing the word. how can peace be defined into words conveying it's
comforting meaning? in my own thinking which I'd like it to be heard, peace is
freedom,comfort,human rights, safety, appreciation do human beings as a whole. I
believe that every one in the whole world would like to live in a peaceful world
where he's never criticized nor attacked for his own beliefs or color or his
identity, I believe every one is already fed up of the violent world we are
living in, but who does actually make earth heaven or hell? it's us...WE are the
controllers of this and the rulers of earth as God gave us the authority to, for
example nature can not be controlled a wind can't be controlled but changing our
lives, we are the ones in charge of that, earth can be heaven if we are angels.
I'm Moslem and an Arab girl and what I'd like to post is that the problem I have
in my country is not my freedom at all and not my rights at all I've all the
rights and may be more than men as a girl but the problem is in freedom ,the
freedom to live freely and practice my own beliefs of identity and religion
freely, am bringing you something from the internal societies of Egypt, may be
some Americans would believe that all what I can be suffering from as a girl
here is the head scarf or the ability to choose my husband but I tell them NO!
this'd not the issue as a girl am very respected in my own country , but what
really aches is that our voices are not reachable, because ether dominating
culture after globalization in my own country is not what I really follow. women
as you see in your media in Arab countries are not as covered as you may imagine
and as not revealed as you may see in Arabic songs, and by the way camels do not
exist on the streets!! we don't use it as means of transportation any more! all
what I suffer from as a girl is that am not well conveyed in the media ,the Arab
women are not really known from what we see on media! live images like you and
dr.ahdaf el sweefy ( another Egyptian writer) are rare on our media and your
media so where's the space of getting to be introduced to the women's' culture
in a! rab counties tries? I want to say that Arab girls are so well educated and
smart and cultured and they reserve their identity as Egyptians and religion
comes at the end of the list, we live Muslims and Christians on one land just as
in Palestine we cry from the same things and laugh at the same things. we have
the freedom to choose what to do and what to be but as I told you we are just
not seen as we really are and here's my voice from the heart of Egypt and the
heart of an Egyptian girl. I lived in Spain for 11 years and when I came back to
my country I fell in love with a guy who's Palestinian and my love to those
people and that land really increased after knowing him more and more, what made
think about peace more and more and as mentioned , it's all about us ,we are the
peace makers! so how are you Americans as people as me contributing to this
process, am ready for what it takes. love you Samar Jarrah. yours Sara kira( one
of the trying to be peace makers).
EgyptMarwa
Egyptbasmallah@hotmail.com
Dear Illinois,
Israel didn't act wrong with America because u always protect, Try to come
against Israel to c what it going to do. What is your opinion in Israel trials
to kill all Palestinians, their culture, their culture, their kids.... please
check all its behavior with all countries not just AMERICA who protect her,
stand beside Israel and fully commitment to any request from Israel, even it is
a commitment to KILL. Israel's generals convince USA to enter a war with Iraq
not for nothing just it's benefit, I think u find nothing to enter Iraq war, and
Americans peoples who killed there and Arab kids and woman, nothing deserve that
except Israel's desire and benefits.
USA,
Illinois,
The reason that we ignore Israeli nuclear weapons is that we trust them not to
use them against us.
No Israeli doctrine has ever called for the annihilation of any other country or
culture. No Israeli government has ever called any other country evil or the
Great Satan.
We do not interfere with Israeli defense capability because they are an
obviously sane country. Iran is obviously not.
tqii
EGYPTahmad
SOHAGahmidsaood@yahoo.com
I wish that any Western citizen answer my questions
1-Why they consider OUR BOOK THE QURAN)and OUR PROPHET MOHAMMED(PBUH)encouraging
terrorism, although there is no verse in THE QUMRAN or any HADITH of OUR
PROPHRT(PBUH)that encourages terrorism 2-IS there isn't any other method except
war and bad suffering for citizens of Iraq to spread Democracy in Iraq or any
country in the M.E. 3-Why U.S.concentrates it's protests on Iran Nuclear Power
and forgets Israeli Nuclear Power 4-Why U.S consider Hams a terrorist
organization while it defends the rights of Palestinians who drove out their
lands by Israeli gang men in 1948.
USA,
ALASKA,
can we just all get along?
gyptnouran kamal mohammed
cairobaby_nouran@hotmail.com
I know that we have no problem with the American people we disagree about our
image in their minds. I think that they carry no respect for us. but still its
our fault that we don't explain ourselves or correct this image that what made
me think that this book and this site is a great chance for us to show the world
that we have respect to ourselves and to the world ,that we are not gypsies nor
barbarians we are civilized and we have minds to think.
U.S.A.,
S.C.,
I would like to communicate with the person from Egypt, but the e-mail address
he gave (cairofreewonderingscorpion@yahoo.com) doesn't seem to work. I would
like to ask him to correct that if there is a mistake in it. Thanks. C.B. U.S.A.
EGYPT,
ALEXANDRIA,
I 'D LIKE TO ASK EACH AMERICAN TWO QUESTIONS :-
WHAT WOULD THEY THINK ABOUT OR DO, IF WE CHANGE PLACES ?
WHY DO THEY JUDGE US BEFORE KNOWING IS IT FAIR?
Egypt,
Cairo,
I want to ask Americans are they satisfied by the current political and social
situations in their country now & if not why are they silent? If it happened to
you and you come to any Arab country what do you expect to see people like?
egyptemy
cairofreewonderingscorpion@yahoo.com
I would like to communicate with anyone who want to know more on the Arab and
particularly Islamic world. I am 20 years old & I am studying English literature
in Cairo University. My dream is that the West would understand our culture ,our
religion. I do have many contacts with people who were ignorant with our world &
through our discussion we reached an agreement & we even now are frinds.What I
want to say is that through discussion people can solve any problem. I am
willing to be asked any question about any subject 7 I promise I will answer is
whatever harsh they are. Thanks.
EGYPT,
ALEXANDRIA,
I 'D LIKE TO ASK EACH AMERICAN TWO QUESTIONS :-
WHAT WOULD THEY THINK ABOUT OR DO, IF WE CHANGE PLACES ?
WHY DO THEY JUDGE US BEFORE KNOWING IS IT FAIR?
U.S.A.Edward
South Carolina,
I am an American Christian who has visited Israel twice. I would like to know if
Arabs are aware that when American hear "Palestinian", they think "terrorist."
The actions of Palestinians have made that word synonymous with "terrorist." I
doubt if Americans are ever going to support the "legitimate rights and
aspirations" of Palestinians as long as they associate Palestinians with
terrorists. This is even more true after 9/11. I believe that we citizens of the
U.S.A. could be better informed, but I also believe that if the Palestinians
were to learn from the example of Ghandi in Indian and Martin Luther King in the
U.S.A., and practice non-violence, that they would quickly have the world,
including the U.S.A., on their side.
U.S.A.Edward
South Carolina,
I enjoyed reading the book (Arab Voices Speak to American Hearts), and I think
it is a useful exercise to try to promote dialogue between Arabs and Americans.
My comment has to do with the common complaint by Arabs that the American
government is not even-handed in the Israeli-Palestinian dispute. I would like
to know if Arabs are aware that to Americans, "Palestinian" is synonymous with
"terrorist". We Americans are probably not as knowledgeable or sensitive as we
could be on that subject, but as long as the Palestinians are seen as
terrorists, we will always favor the party that doesn't bomb busloads of
innocent civilians, etc., namely, the Israelis. I believe that if Palestinians
would learn from the example of Ghandi in Indian, or Martin Luther King in
America, and practice non-violence resistance to oppression, that the world
would rally to their side. However, that doesn't seem to be an option for the
Palestinians. Instead, we continue to see rage expressing itself in terrorist
acts, and the U.S.A. continues and will continue to support Israel as it battles
what Americans see as terrorism.
United StatesShereen
Florida,
This book was well-written and allows an often unspoken voice to be heard. It
has been more common to learn of the negative actions of a few from the Arab
population. Also, the media tends to express their story in a format focused on
making a sale. Reading this book, it is apparent the interviewees are similar to
others of us - people trying to live a life where they can provide for their
family, learn from experiences, and maintain some level of spirituality and
perspective over their circumstance. The Arab's purpose is as multi-faceted as
any American's. Yet they have been so misunderstood. Perhaps we don't take the
time, perhaps the general media perspective wins out because the populous is too
busy to investigate the validity of what they read in newspapers, hear on the
radio and see on TV. Perhaps if we tune into this and other independent
literature like this more open-mindedly we can learn that the real terrorist is
not a true Christian Arab or true Muslim Arab. The real terrorist, like a gang
member in America, is fighting for a cause very few have come to associate with.
Using the media and the lure of belonging, he recruits those amongst him lost
and defines a purpose for these recruits. The purpose and its rewards are false!
How can we combat this if we do not understand the environment, the population,
or the lure? We have so much more to learn about the Arabs --- Samar Jarrah
please bring us more information!
USAAl
Florida,
Hi all,
Here are a few web sites that show the rich heritage of non Muslims in the heart
of the Arab world. Thanks
http://www.egyptologyonline.com/coptic_egypt.htm
http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Judaism/synegypt.html
USAWorld Religion
Florida,
As far as dialogue between various religions, the society to whom the concept is
a new one are those of Europe and America.
A huge myth in the west; often even used by CNN, is "The Middle East: Centuries
of Conflict." Centuries of conflict? Try nearly half of one century.
Before that, ask your grandparents where all the conflict took place. It was
always Europe. "Europe: Centuries of Conflict." That's the more accurate title.
For centuries, Muslims, Christians and Jews lived peacefully in the Middle East;
all while Europeans were busy butchering one another. From the Spanish
Inquisition to the Holocaust to World Wars I and II, your forefathers will never
recall a "Middle East: Centuries of Conflict." With the two exceptions of: (1)
The Crusades (European intrusion of yesterday); and (2) Israel (European
intrusion of today).
Europe was always a bastion of conflict anytime a religion other than her own
would encounter or penetrate her borders. The fact is Civilizations of European
descent have never historically had a tradition of dialogue. Synagogues and
Mosques are only a new edition to European societies.
On the other hand, the oldest churches and synagogues have stood and stand
proudly in Muslim lands. Reflecting centuries of dialogue and not merely
"tolerance," but actual understanding.
Funny, how history gets flipped around so easily.
USAWorld Religion
Florida,
"A Muslim can enter into any Christian church in the U.S.A. Is that not true?"
Yes.
A Muslim can enter into any number of Christian churches in Morocco, Algeria,
Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Sudan, Yemen, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Iraq,
Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia and any other number of
predominately Muslim countries.
"Can a Christian enter into any mosque of Islam in Saudi Arabia?"
Saudi Arabia is the one exception to the many Muslim countries having a long
history of churches and synagogues: a country containing two cities of Muslim
reverence: (1) Mecca; and (2) Medina.
You've accidentally, I'm sure, made an exception the rule.
"If not, why not?"
As for the two holy cities, again the two exceptions to the rule of thousands of
Muslim cities proudly boasting a rich history of churches and synagogues, the
intent of not allowing those other than Muslim inside these two cities is to
keep the cities completely within the spirit of Islamic worship.
A matter of fact, it's not impossible for people to enter the cities that
pretend to be Muslim. It's happened throughout history numerous times. It's
really not even an issue; because the point is for everyone in the cities to
conduct themselves in a purely Islamic fashion so as to not interfere with the
otherwise purely spiritual environment. Someone not interested in that
particular type of spirituality wouldn't have no interest in visiting the city,
anyhow.
"Can a Christian in Saudi Arabia open a Christian church in Saudi Arabia? If
not, why not?"
Saudi Arabia, "ONE" Muslim country, has apparently interpreted the prohibition
of churches in Mecca and Medina as being a prohibition throughout its entire
territory of the Arabian peninsula. This is a present government decision. This,
despite a history of warm dialogue with numerous churches and priests of Yemen
in Southern Arabia by the Prophet Mohammed, himself.
Perhaps it is frustrating that Christians can not build churches in the remote
deserts of Saudi Arabia; however:
Is it permissible for a Muslim to open a mosque in the precinct limits of the
Vatican, a Catholic city of its own? As a Muslim, I wouldn't even want to. Not
out of spite; but out of respect.
"You talk about dialogue but it seems you want it one way - your way without the
possibility of compromise."
Not true. All I've written about is the existence of churches throughout Muslim
countries. Unfortunately, we'll have to leave the centuries of dialogue between
Christians and Muslims, so often ignored by the West, for another time.
"Wouldn't true dialogue allow the presence of a Christian church in an Islamic
country?"
As I've explained, there are so many beautiful churches throughout the many
Muslim countries and cities of the world. Visit one and get back with us.
U.S.A.Bogitar
Colorado,
A Muslim can enter into any Christian church in the U.S.A. Is that not true? Can
a Christian enter into any mosque of Islam in Saudi Arabia? If not, why not? Can
a Christian in Saudi Arabia open a Christian church in Saudi Arabia? If not, why
not? You talk about dialogue but it seems you want it one way - your way without
the possibility of compromise. Wouldn't true dialogue allow the presence of a
Christian church in an Islamic country?
USAli
Florida,
Bravo! This book is a great resource of information, not only for Americans but
for Arabs too. As an Arab, Palestinian and a Muslim, I found this book to be the
best method to start the dialogue between the East and West. I personally don't
think there are any differences between nations, it has all to do with politics
and hidden agendas. At the end, we are all humans and we all want to live free
and with dignity.
From the views from ordinary Arab citizens (Muslim, Christian, Liberal,
conservative) I see that the common issue is the Palestinian/Israeli conflict.
And a solution for that will be a just solution for both parties. I can't wait
to read the second edition of the book and read the American response to the
Arab questions.
Saudi Arabiaahmed
jeddahman777@hotmail.com
as an Arab and a Muslim who came to America years ago to go to college I fell in
love with the country and the people. most Americans are nice and kind. they
treated me good and opened their homes to me. the only thing that bother me, and
bothers most Arabs and Moslems is the foreign policy with regards to Israel.
Israel is the main and only reason America is hated in the middle east. Israel
committed war crimes and atrocities against the Palestinians for over 50 years.
Israel occupied Arab land. and violated international law. Israel did this with
the help of the USA. 98% of what you read and hear in America is Israeli
propaganda, the American people are not allowed to know the truth. The Israeli
propaganda machine is about in total control of the us media, talk show masters,
newspapers, TV, all protect Israel and keep the truth from the people. In the
last 30 years America was going through an israelization procces.this is now
complete under Bush who handed America to Israel through the Israeli agents
known as the neocons,like wolfowitz,fieth,perle,scoob libby,elioy
abrams,bolton,kristol, rumsfeld .these people are in control of much of Americas
national security and foreign policy, their aim is to serve the Israeli agenda
and not that of America. they planned and pushed the Iraq was to serve Israel,
they don't care how many Iraqis and Americans die. they support the terrorist
Sharon and his plans. hats why America is hated around the world. the biggest
threat to America is not Islam or Arabs, but the Israeli spy and espionage
network in America. America is under occupation by the Zionist likudist
Israelis. end this occupation and you will have no violence coming out of the
middle east.
I wanted to say that I am simply from all over the place as I
was Kuwait, lived in Jordan , Dubai and Canada..(not to forget to mention that I
am originally from Palestine) Wow what happened to me and why did we move so
much ( well you know the answer) our home was ripped off taken from us and we
have no where to GO...infact sometimes I think that this made is better people
as we need to study hard and work hard and become better people and unique and
strong so other people and countries will accept us into there little world...
Ironic isn't it!
I have couple of issues to mention in terms of religion and in terms of being
Arabic.. and in particular a Palestinian.. OK if any American guy (just simple
anyone was living in his house and someone (anyone) came and destroyed his house
and killed his wife and rapped his daughter and took his house (what would this
guy do? tell this person oh hi thanks for the destruction and killing please
feel free to take my house and I will live in the garage or leave the area..? or
would the guy just go nuts and I can't even imagine what he would do to that
guy? well this is what happened in Palestine and simply no one understands...
the stole the privacy of people and took what they owned and lived for! so the
issue is not Palestine vs. Israeli's it's someone took something that belongs to
someone else regardless of that persons religion, culture, background, roots or
anything..
anyway the other issue is that why would people accept a nun and not a lady in a
scarf, a seikh guy and not a shiekh, a Jewish lady covering her hair or wearing
a Wig to cover her hair (this is how they were the scarf by the way) they wear a
wig to cover the original hair why this is OK and a simple scarf with very good
behavior and honestly, self respect and kindness HURTS!!!
I rest my case
thanx
USA,
Illinois,
I'm sorry to see that Jock in Australia is about as hate-filled toward America
as the people Ms Jarrah fears. She is doing all of us a service by trying to
foster dialog and understanding. Prejudice is dispelled by getting to know
individuals — whatever their country, race or religion.
United States Laura
Washingtoneatkale@hotmail.com
I just read about this project and book in "In These Times" and was moved to
tears. How beautiful and simple and idea - to let people speak in their own
voices to earnest questions. It put in sharp focus the depth of the damage that
can be done when we don't have a way to cultivate the understanding that comes
from open exchange. I am thankful for your example of how one person can decide
to create that bridge and give others a chance to speak for themselves.
When I was 15, I was lucky to live for one year in Amman. I did not speak (or
learn) Arabic, I went to a private American school, and lived in an affluent
suburb. Obviously my experience was specific and limited. I still deeply value
the small window into Arab culture that time offered me. With the events and
changes in the Arab world the last years, I've come to realize that the most
important thing I know about that part of the world is how much I have to learn
still.
What a strange feeling it is to know that so much of what I see in the media is
not consistent with the wonderful impression that time in Jordan left on me. At
the same time not knowing what exactly to say, aware that my own understanding
is so limited that I wouldn't know how to speak for anyone there now. Thank you
for providing this forum for people to speak for themselves!!
United States Dick Bankhead
FloridaHBankhead@AOL.com
Samar, once I started to read your book I couldn't stop. Not only did I enjoy
your smooth writing skills but more importantly was the fact the book was
enlightening. I fully agree with Paul Findley, this book is a must read for ALL
Americans and should be mandatory for every member of Bush's administration and
elected members of Congress. I understand that President Bush has made the
statement that he doesn't read books or newspapers. I can understand that
because he isn't intelligent enough to understand what he reads. I am so very
pleased to see Bush's popularity in the low 40%. Where were these people at
election time?
Samar, I only have praise for your noble efforts. You can't quit now. I wish to
encourage you to become a film director like Enas and do the documentaries.
Start with exposing the "slanted" media. I truly am embarrassed and ashamed of
the Zionism in this country. We certainly never started off with it in 1776. May
God give you the strength and stamina to continue with your ambitions. My wife
and I will dock on a cruise ship at 07:00 am May 18, 2006, in Alexandria, Egypt.
Naturally, I want to see the Great Pyramid and the Sphynx. We will be docked
until 10:30 pm. Could you recommend someone we could meet and would be willing
to sit down with us over coffee and get acquainted? I accept the fact that this
might not be possible but I just had to ask. I look forward to the opportunity
to meet you some day. God Bless. Dick, West Palm Beach.
Usabrian Farrell brother of Terry Farrell Rescue4/fdny
new yorkbf1555@optonline.net
I truly enjoyed the book. However, as a family member of a firefighter murdered
on 9/11/01 I find it completely unbelievable that some Arabs do not believe how
evil Bin Linden is. Most disturbing is the interview where the speak claimed
that Osmma Bin Linden was not even a real person. They need to come to New York
city and talk to us the family and survivors of that day.
BrasilTom
SP
I am a bit puzzled about the contents of the book on one recurring theme: It
seems that according to several people who were interviewed we in the West are
being misled by our press, but that seems contradictory because anyone can have
a realistic view or be misled by the press in any country since most of us have
access to the news from almost anywhere.
It seems to me that the issue is not necessarily the press but how people
interpret the same news in different areas of the world, or more precisely how
certain groups vs. others look at the same facts.
As an example: if one person in the US is more aligned with the Palestinians'
views and accuses another that is more aligned with the Israelis' and tells them
that they have been duped by the press, the same exact argument can be made by
the person being accused and leads nowhere.
I would suggest that folks give specific examples instead of a blanket
statement, which could lead to more productive discussions, because telling me
or anyone else I have been duped is telling me that I am dumber than the person
making the criticism, which really seems to point the argument back to the
person making it.
USATom O'Kane
Florida
Dear Mohamed in Cairo - wasn't this a wonderful idea that Samar had to bring
peoples of the world together & have an opportunity to exchange ideas & thoughts
- I just completed the chapter w/her interview w/you - I wish that we were
sitting in a cafe in Cairo or here in Punta Gorda, Florida over a cup of coffee,
discussing the Middle East & the US - my wife & I as well as millions of
Americans share your views of the President - he is an extremist - he has not
compassion for anyone, not US soldiers, not the Iraqi people, not the poor, no
one who disagrees w/him - what a horror it was to see American soldiers treating
Iraqi prisoners in the disgusting manner at Abu Ghraib - you are correct, it is
a style, a culture, attitude from those in charge all the way up the line that
caused this outrage to occur - I am an Independent - I always vote for the
person & not the party - the President is a Republican, but he does not
represent the principles of he party - this is a party of humanitarians, the
party of Abraham Lincoln - in the past this has not been a group of extremists,
but the party has been taken over & until the leadership changes, the US & the
world are stuck w/them & their distorted view of life & the world.
In answer to your questions about what it would take for Americans to be
interested in knowing more about the Arab world, many people are beginning to
show an interest in the people of the Middle East - Samar got a tremendous
response from the public in this conservative part of Florida so there is hope -
I do not expect things to change rapidly because it took so long to get into
this situation, but we must all work to bring about this change - thank you for
participating.
Tom O'Kane
USA,
California
If one is to believe what is being written here about America, America would be
the last place anyone would want to be. America is so evil but yet no one can
figure out how to keep people out.. I could move to the Middle East where
justice prevails. Yeah, right! From the postings I just read you lost me as a
reader.
Dear Samar, Thank you for providing this opportunity. Connie
American responses to Mohammed, Cairo, Egypt by Connie, an American retired
elementary school teacher.
1. The potential for travel to Egypt would be a strong motivating force for
learning more about Egypt.
2. National Public Radio features book reviews by foreign authors. I have
followed up on several books I have learned about through these reports.
Americans learn some about Egyptian history and culture in school.
3. I would like to see a television program about Egypt. Perhaps Bill Moyers
could be enticed out of retirement to do such a project for American audiences.
He is an excellent journalist. Perhaps Egypt has some journalists also that
might like to work on such a project. He has a new program Wide Angle on PBS I
just learned of and tonight (7-19-05) the topic is a film on Lebanese men and
women who are trying to build a new future.
Response to Kamil, Amman, Jordan
1. Although President Bush was elected a second term indicating he has majority
support, the past two elections were very divisive for our nation. I voted for
his opponent in both elections. I did not support our going to war in Iraq,
however I do feel responsible for the greater mess we have made there and would
like to see political stability and the infrastructure repaired and even
improved before we as a nation feel free to leave Iraq.
2. I would like to see the Palestinian situation resolved in a just manner. I
wish Hannan Ashrawi, author of This Side of Peace, were still on the national
scene in Palestine.
Response to Enas, Cairo
1. My country is not following its own ideals around the world. It talks of
freedom but benefits from the unjust labor situations of workers in other
countries, and in this country as well sometimes. There are Americans working to
change this. Our government wishes to free the Iraqi people, yet restricts the
business opportunities in the newly developing “free” Iraq. There are policies
which the United States pursues which I think are unwise.
Enas, can you do anything to assist Mukhtaran Bibi in Pakistan? (See NY Times
6-14-2005 article by Nicholas D. Kristof)
Response for Osama, Cairo
1. This is a good question for all countries. I think it points to the need for
better multicultural education as well as education in tolerant attitudes.
2. Americans are a very diverse group of people. Some judge without knowing,
many others do not.
Response for Hassan, Amman
1. No one I know would condone such actions! The United States does have
criminals and one who murders is a criminal, no matter the motivation.
Response for Ola, Amman
Each of your questions is based on an incorrect assumption about most Americans.
Most Americans would like you and all people to live as they wish, working and
caring for their families. Most Americans believe each person has a right to
self defense and to correct unjust situations through legal recourse. We believe
people have the right to pursue life, liberty and happiness.
Response for Khaled, Cairo
1. I do not hate you.
2. I listen to you through Samar Dahmash-Jarrah’s book.
3. Reading Arab Voices Speak to American Hearts and responding to your questions
is my attempt to meet with you.
4. There are many students of politics and religion in our universities, and
there have been for many years. There are also good books in our libraries about
Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism and many other religions. Those
authors have taken the time and effort to explain those religions to those who
wish to learn about them. You are free to do the same. There is an interested
audience.
5. I believe that both Palestinians and Israelites are human beings who have the
right to live freely just as I do. I believe that all humans are my brothers and
sisters and are deserving of love and respect.
6. I do not expect anyone to welcome the United States Army when it destroys
mosques, schools, hospitals and houses. I do know that the policy of our
military is to minimize damage to civic institutions. Responsible armed forces
do not bivouac in hospitals, schools, mosques, churches, and houses where
non-combatants are congregated.
7. Americans do not expect you to like our government when it supports
undemocratic systems. Many Americans do not like our government when it supports
undemocratic systems or unjust policies and those Americans attempt to influence
our government to correct those mistakes.
8. I do not support President Bush’s policies in many arenas. He intends to
govern for all Americans, but not all Americans agree with his choices. I do not
believe he is seeking personal gain but that he is in support of and supported
by corporations and other interest groups which are driven finally by profit
motive. The elder President Bush had the goal of getting Iraqi forces out of
Kuwait. This he accomplished.
9. I do not believe that war with Iraq was just. I think it will take much work
to remove our forces from Iraq in a responsible way and I wish we had the help
of other nations to accomplish this goal. Other nations are justifiably
reluctant to get involved as those opposed to a free, independent Iraqi society
are barbaric in their means of thwarting this goal.
Response to Haifa, Kuwait
1. Palestine and Israel would have made much more progress towards solving their
political problems with or without outside help if both sides refused violent
means. Neither side has been willing to do this. America has been unsuccessful
in brokering peace there. Peace must develop in the hearts of the people
involved in order for politicians to work out solutions to thorny problems. I
think I do not know enough to really answer your question.
Response to Mohamed, Cairo
1. I already have stopped believing all I read. A healthy skepticism is part of
collecting information from all sides.
Response to Dr. Khaled, Amman
1. I am neither an American diplomat nor a professor, but I am a person who is
open to learning all aspects of a given circumstance. I support Israel’s
existence, but certainly not all it has done. I think all states (Arab and
non-Arab) have things to be proud of and things requiring more work.
Response to Um Walid, Amman
Although your question is directed to Samar I would like to give an answer as
well.
1. As a wife or mother I could only hope to persuade my husband or son to avoid
war as a solution to world problems. The choice of what to do with their lives
is theirs. I would feel devastated by a death in battle of my son or husband.
The carnage of those unknown to me in Iraq or Sudan for example is also very sad
despite the fact they are unknown.
2. Death of a Palestinian or Israeli in fighting is equally sad as is all loss
of life due to fighting or killing.
3. I am able to write my government officials to express my opinion and I have.
I am able to vote for candidates who most closely reflect my opinions.
Response to Madam Soad, Cairo
1. Yours is a good and beautiful concept. Many in America share this work.
2. An attitude of gratitude is wise and work for justice an imperative. Many in
America agree with you.
3. Many people do this kind of work also here in America. I think those who see
the “other” as their own do these types of charity as they are able. Thank you
for your good work.
AustraliaKangaroo Jock
Almost as bad as Americaormg@bigpond.com
The Yanks understand only one language - the same spoken by the Zionists - and
that is: Force and Make-believe. To make them understand anything, they have to
be defeated and, from my perch here in Australia, the only way I see that
happening is for the Arab nations first, to stop fighting amongst themselves
(impossible I reckon) then, align with South America, China and Russia, to force
Uncle Sam into submission; that can be done by dint of economics alone! America
is vulnerable, due to her debt and, loss of manufacturing power. Go for it and,
good luck.
AmericaJean Hendrick
Georgiaghendrick@alltel.net
My name is Jean Hendrick. Both my husband and I earned MBAs, and then worked in
the corporate world in manufacturing and banking until 1998. That year we both
realized how destructive large corporations are to humans and the environment.
So we left our jobs, sold everything we owned and moved to the Blue Ridge
Mountains in North Georgia. Greg now markets nutritional supplements and I help
disabled people get Social Security.
While we were in the corporate world both Greg and I were moderately
conservative in our politics, mostly because that was the way we were raised.
However, that changed 100% when we moved to Georgia, and especially when
President Bush started to talk about going to war in Iraq. We knew this was
wrong and that the reasons he listed for war were lies to the American people.
We stopped listening to the corporate controlled media and started to think for
ourselves. We started to get very active in promoting progressive policies and
ideas.
I have spoken out against the war in Iraq since the day President Bush started
beating his war drum. I have spoken out against Guantanamo. I have spoken out
about the injustice being done to the Palestinians. Every day we see new
evidence of how President Bush and his administration have lied to the American
people, and I am deeply ashamed of my government.
I have spent many hours trying to understand why so many Americans still support
President Bush and this disastrous war in Iraq. The answer is complex, but
basically it comes down this: First of all, most Americans do not realize that
our news media is no longer independent, that it has become a tool for
corporations to push products and propaganda. And since the Bush administration
and the Republican Party favor corporate wealth over individual American
prosperity, the corporations who own the media will not show the truth about
what is really happening unless they absolutely have to. It is in their best
interest to promote Bush Administration propaganda, because if they do they get
favors. If they don’t they get attacked – like Newsweek was attacked for it’s
coverage of Quran abuses at Guantanamo. Secondly, average Americans do not lie,
and therefore cannot believe that our government lies. We have all been taught
since childhood that America is the land of the free and stands for truth, honor
and justice. It is very difficult to break away from that concept to see things
as they really are. The lies from this administration are so big, so
unprecedented that most Americans can’t believe they are lies, no matter what
facts are given to show them as such. Thirdly, in order to retain support for
his lies, President Bush has played upon the base fears of Americans, as well as
their sense of patriotism. First he tried to make us afraid of more terrorist
attacks. Then he used fear of gay people and abortion to incite the Religious
right, which has become more fundamentalist in nature for the past 10 years. If
anyone speaks out against this, or the war in Iraq, they are attacked
professionally and personally, including those in the media who question the
lies. They are called unpatriotic. The Bush Administration does not listen to
critics; they surround themselves only with supporters, even at taxpayer funded
events. When they could not win the 2000 and 2004 election fairly, they rigged
the vote! ng machi nes and took the results to court. We are very much in danger
of becoming a fascist state.
The American government has been a tyrant since the 1950’s. Most Americans have
no idea what our government has done in our name, since most of it has been done
in secret. If the truth did come out, the information was “spun” to make it look
like we were still the good guys. The American government does not really care
about democracy and freedom; it only cares about what is good for those few
individuals and corporations who make a lot of money as a result of American
policies. That is why the American government appears inconsistent to the world,
creating dictators, bringing them down, and then propping them up again. The
underlying common thread is money, and what is needed to make sure the money
keeps flowing. That is why our government takes what does not belong to it, and
this is wrong.
I don’t know why Americans judge Arabs without knowing them. I suspect that the
media has done this, creating a scary picture of Arabs in order to retain
support for the unconstitutional policies the Bush Administration decrees that
curtail our civil liberties. Most Americans believe this propaganda rather than
doing the hard work to find out for themselves. Now, with the heightened level
of fear in this country, anyone who looks like an Arab is suspect. This is
wrong, wrong, wrong. I am ashamed of the way our government has abused American
Arabs and Arab immigrants. I am appalled at the attack on Aljazeera that caused
the death of the reporter. I am disgusted with what is going on in Guantanamo
and Iraq. I am deeply embarrassed and deeply ashamed that my government has done
this.
I have not had much contact with Arabs in the U.S. I did have some Arab
acquaintances when I went to school in southern France. It was only recently
that I learned the difference between an Arab, an Afghani, an Iraqi and an
Iranian. Since we don’t understand the languages, we cannot tell the difference
on TV. I have taught myself a little about Islam and Mohammed (PBUH), the
difference between Sunni and Shi’ite and I deeply respect the contributions that
Arabs have made to the world. I am almost envious of the closeness of Arab
families, although I do understand that this closeness can sometimes be hard to
deal with. America has become a rootless society and I long for the sense of
belonging that you must have. When I watched the documentary “Control Room”
about Aljazeera, I wished that I could invite every employee interviewed over to
my house for dinner. I am very much impressed with how many Arabs speak English,
and how open and welcoming you are to strangers.
It has only been very recently that average Americans have begun to wake up to
the tremendous injustice done to the Palestinians. I hear about it more and more
every day, but mostly from independent media. National Public Radio is being
criticized for being too pro-Palestinian in it’s coverage of the Middle East,
and is in danger of losing its government funding. The reality is that NPR is
telling both sides of the story, and the Bush Administration doesn’t like it.
When I was a young girl I grew up with the romantic myth of Exodus and the Jews
creating a nation of their own. However, I do remember wondering how land could
simply be taken away from one people and given to another. But then, Americans
are used to that because that it is what we did to Native Americans. Again, I
believe the root of the problem is money. Wealthy American Jews who can make or
break a politician’s career heavily lobby the U.S. government. My experience of
American Jews is that most of them cannot see past the Holocaust, and therefore
cannot see that Palestinians are being treated by Israelis the same way Jews
have been treated for thousands of years. Even highly educated progressive Jews
that I know in Georgia cannot open their minds to the Palestinian issue, and
refuse to read anything that contradicts their assumptions. I agree with those
who say that America must either become an even-handed broker, or get out of the
way. However, I don’t think America is capable of being even-handed, due to the
influence of wealthy Jews. I suggest that the Palestinians and the Israelis find
some other group or country to help them through this – like the UN, or
Switzerland.
I know that what I have said here is very depressing. So let me end with hope.
Hassan Abrahim (I hope I got his name right) said in “Control Room” that the
only thing that will stop America is the American people. I felt joy when I
heard it. It is absolutely true. What I want the Arab world, and the rest of the
world, to know is that there are millions of Americans who feel just like I do,
who see things as clearly as I hope I do, who have stopped listening and
believing the lies from the corporate media and our government. We still have a
few members of Congress who speak the truth and challenge the lies. We are
coming together and working hard every single day in this great struggle to
change America – not back to what it was, but into what it says it is. There is
an American expression – “walk the talk.” This means to act as you speak. We
want America to act as she speaks, openly, honestly, fairly and with great
compassion for all Americans and the people of all other nations. This is going
to take a long time to accomplish. We have strayed way too far down the wrong
path. We may not accomplish this in my lifetime. But I do know that what our
government is most afraid of is the power inherent in the American people; that
is why they lie to us. Once we have the truth, we cannot be stopped.
United States of AmericaJoann Crain
Floridajocrain@ewol.com
It seems that the major problem is one that has been very difficult to solve and
that is the Israeli/Palestinian problem. This seems to be the predominate
opinion of most of the interviewees in the book.
I wish I knew how Americans could help resolve this and the only way seems to be
educating our people who seem not to have any idea of the magnitude of the
situation. Our efforts should be aimed at our president and our legislators in
Congress and especially at the ballot box.
The other equation in the matter is the military/industrial complex which should
be reined in and that is an enormous job as they have reigned supreme throughout
the entire history of our country. We should have listened to Eisenhower when he
warned us of this element which is so dangerous to our "health".
U.S.Penny Deutsch
Floridac1943x@comcast.net
To Enas, I would say Bravo for stepping out a traditional female role. Yes, I
believe also that our present administration is making our country look like a
tyrant and I hope that attitude is soon corrected. What would you say to
American women who break the mold?
To Hassani: Many people fear what they don't know. Many Americans are not well
educated in world affairs and are not well traveled. Therefore, they know little
about Arabs and the differences between them. Instead, they see them as all the
same, the historically ignorant behavior that brought about the American-Indian
wars, interred the Japanese during WWII, encouraged segregation and brutal
behavior against American citizens simply because of the color of their skin.
Our children should be better educated in world affairs and respect for people
of all nationalities. Many Arabs visit the U.S. and attend our colleges. Very
few Americans ever visit the Middle East. What advice would you give our
leaders?
For Khaled: You may already know by now that most intelligent Americans realize
the war in Iraq was bogus. Once again, ignorance make people unaware of the
problems with Israel and Palestine. What advice you give to your American
counterparts in becoming more knowledgable in world affairs?
Nineteen year-old Mohamed is much more knowledgeable in political and world
affairs than many of his American counterparts. His exposure to other cultures
and world history certainly contributed to that. What would you say to 19
year-old college students in America to make them more aware and more
responsible for our future?
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