MarApr02

March & April 2002 Guest List

Our people will never stop the heroic and courageous struggle for freedom and independence from the yahood foreigners! LONG LIVE PALESTINE AND LONG LIVE THE ARAB WORLD !!!
JS
Israeli Occupied, USA - Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 14:10:56 (PDT)

I am glad to hear that the Ramallah convention has not been cancelled.
No Name Provided
USA - Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 12:05:04 (PDT)

WOMEN IN UNITY AGAINST WAR / WOMEN IN BLACK Please join us in another silent protest march against U.S.-sanctioned violence in Afghanistan, Iraq and Palestine. ALL EVENTS START PROMPTLY AT NOON! This is a very busy day at Eastern Market. Carpooling is strongly suggested. ALLOW EXTRA TIME FOR PARKING. Sat., May 18, 2002 EASTERN MARKET, CORNER OF RUSSELL AND WILKINS (Parking suggestion: Rivard, one block west of Russell) EVERYONE WELCOME, PLEASE WEAR BLACK & BE SILENT WIUNITY @ HOTMAIL.COM WOMEN IN BLACK/WOMEN IN UNITY AGAINST WAR: WHO WE ARE AND WHY WE GATHER: We are women of varied ethnic and racial heritage who gather to oppose the use of violence and terror as a means to political ends. We wear black in the spirit of Women in Black of Israel and Palestine who call for a dialogue to restore the human rights of the Palestinian people, and of the Argentine mothers of the Plaza de Mayo who gathered to demand that the military regime be held accountable for their children who had "disappeared." We join other women of the earth who oppose the war mentality by revealing its catastrophic rationale. We are determined to expose the hypocrisy of leaders who condemn terrorism and the killing of innocent civilians while they employ these same means for their own political objectives. State violence always serves to escalate violence. A secure world requires recognizing the legitimate claims of other peoples. As American women, we call for an end to U.S. support for regimes and policies which oppress people, deny their access to basic needs, and obstruct their right to self-determination. We oppose the expansion of military operations into other countries. We oppose the suspension of civil liberties and the detention of individuals based on their religion or ethnicity. We denounce the bombing of Afghanistan, the sanctions against the people of Iraq and the U.S.-backed Israeli occupation of Palestine. PLEASE ORGANIZE TO PROTEST THESE INJUSTICES IN YOUR OWN COMMUNITY WIUNITY @ HOTMAIL.COM
Basima Farhat, Detroit Club President <Basima@aol.com>
Detroit, MI USA - Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 06:48:32 (PDT)

Please Note: There will be a RALLY Protesting Sharon's War Crime Against The Palestinian When: Friday May 3rd 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Where: City of Southfield Municipal Complex West Lawn 26000 Evergreen Rd. (on Evergreen between 10 & 11 Mile Road) Please tell all of your friends and family. Contact me if you need more information
Basima Farhat, Detroit Club President <Basima@aol.com>
Detroit, MI USA - Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 06:39:03 (PDT)

Hello to all arabs out their. This web site is very cool.wish their was more ones like this. Hope to see everyone at the convention this year.Chicago people are very fun.you will enjoy it very much. Stay cool take care, talk to you later by.
kathy mufarreh <kathy271@msn.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 20:29:21 (PDT)

Got info from friends in Jordan u about a new sight all in America should view..RAMALLAHONLINE.COM ITS GREAT AMD VEY NFORMATIVE..PLEASE ALL OF YOU TRY IT ITS GREAT
Sal Khoury
Michigan, USA - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 19:25:06 (PDT)

ASALAMU ALAIKUM
nasir imran <imran@umich.edu>
ann arbor, MI USA - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 12:49:25 (PDT)

http://www.petitiononline.com/JENIN/petition.html PLease sign !!!!!!!!!!!!!
For Justice and Peace
Houston, USA - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 13:06:48 (PDT)

Salam! I'm Russian young woman who loves Palestine as own native land! My dream to go to Palestine to take part in Holy struggle against Israeli. I want to have many friends from Palestine and other countries who loves Palestine like me. And I need real advise how I can go there. I know English and learn Arabic and Islam now. Please, write me on tarika@omen.ru Yours - Tarika
Tarika <tarika@omen.ru>
Moscow, Russia - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 02:52:51 (PDT)

A GOOD FRIEND OF PALESTINE STARTED THIS LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN - PLEASE JOIN IT AND ENCOURAGE OTHERS AS WELL!! Dear Friend of Palestine, I am sure that you are as horrified by the news from Jenin and other parts of the Palestinian territories as I am. You are not powerless. There is something you can do to help the Palestinian people. Below this letter is a sample letter to President Bush, which I will send to 500 or more people. I am asking you to help by sending this letter by regular postal mail to President Bush at the address provided, and to forward a copy of this letter to at least 10 other people, asking that they will also send a letter to President Bush and forward this letter to at least 10 people that they know. In this internet age e-mailing this letter to 10 people is easy and simple to do. The reason it is important that letters to President Bush should be sent by regular postal mail is because it is likely that e-mails will be ignored. With your help 500 letters can become 5,000 letters, and then 50,000 letters, and then 500,000 letters. Believe me, I have lobbied the U.S. government before, and 50,000 letters, or 500,000 letters, will get their attention. You can add your own thoughts to your letter to President Bush, but four things in the letter should stay the same: *The three actions we are requesting that the President take should stay the same, so that we present a unified message; *The tone of the letter should be very respectful; *You should indicate what state or country you are writing from; and *Below where you sign your name at the bottom of your letter and on the return address of the envelope you should write Friend of Palestine. Please send and forward this letter to help the people of Palestine as soon as possible. Take care, J.A.B. Friend of Palestine SAMPLE LETTER: President George W. Bush The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Bush, I am a peace-loving Friend of Palestine writing to you from [write state or country here]. I am very worried about the devastating conditions that the Palestinian people are subjected to every day. It is not surprising to me that the Palestinian people have lost all hope in the possibility of a just and peaceful resolution of this terrible conflict. I am asking you to take three steps that will help to restore Palestinian hope, and will also preserve the image of the United States as a balanced and fair mediator: 1. Now that President Arafat has once again publicly condemned violence in Arabic, as he did before on December 16, 2001 and March 28, 2002, I want you to publicly call on Prime Minister Sharon to freeze the construction of all new settlements or growth in existing settlements, as he is already required to do by the Mitchell Commission guidelines that you have indicated that you want Israelis and Palestinians to implement; and 2. Another step that the Israelis are required to take under the Mitchell Commission guidelines is the eventual elimination of all Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Gaza. As a minimal showing of good faith that he even accepts the Mitchell Commission guidelines, I want you to publicly call on Prime Minister Sharon to state in public that he will be willing to eliminate all settlements in the West Bank and Gaza as part of a final peace agreement ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; and 3. The most fundamental shortcoming of the Oslo Peace Accords signed in 1993, was the excruciatingly slow timeline. It simply is not realistic to anticipate that Palestinians and Israelis can maintain their trust throughout several years of minute implementation. Therefore, my third and final request is that you call on the Israelis and Palestinians to move to "Final Status" negotiations, using the agreement at Taba and the peace offer of Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia as an established beginning point for these negotiations, which should be completely implemented within two years of reaching a "Final Status" agreement. Thank you for your consideration of these requests. Respectfully yours, [NAME] Friend of Palestine
Summer
USA - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 15:45:30 (PDT)

PLEASE ACT NOW Please distribute this action alert internationally, on your lists and to your friends, to all people who believe that the voice of justice in Palestine should be heard despite all attempts of censorship. * The University of California at Berkeley suspended a group called Students for Justice in Palestine(SJP) after the group commemoration of the massacre of Deir Yassin by having a 1,200 people strong rally, then participating in a call on the administration to divest from the Apartheid State of Israel. * In the best tradition of free speech and non-violent anti-Apartheid resistance, the students participated in a sit-in where 79 people were arrested. As a punitive measure, all the arrested people face criminal charges and the students face up to one year of suspension from the university. * These actions against SJP are unique and unjustified. No other student group that has participated in non-violent civil disobedience has been suspended and no students have faced charges of this severity in the past several years at UC Berkeley. We believe that this is a systematic attempt to silence pro-Palestinian voices on campus and to intimidate students from being activists. * The chancellor of the university instituted a Zero-Tolerance policy in Berkeley only a few days prior to the well-publicized protest to single out the Palestinian voice, hinting that such protests are inherently violent. WE NEED YOUR HELP-CONTACT UC BERKELEY WHEREVER YOU LIVE Please lend your support to pro-Palestinian student activists and activists who are fighting for social justice by letting the administration know that their actions constitute an infringement on free speech, are suppressive, and are not supported by the community. CHANCELLOR ROBERT BERDAHL- MAIL: 200 California Hall #1500 Berkeley, CA 94720-1500 TEL:(510)642-7464 FAX:(510)643-5499 ASSISTANT CHANCELOOR JOHN CUMMINS- MAIL: Office of the Chancellor 200 California Hall Berkeley, CA 94720-1500 EMAIL: jcummins@uclink4.berkeley.edu TEL: (510) 642-7516 FAX: (510) 643-5499 VICE CHANCELLOR GENARO PADILLA-MAIL: Undergraduate Affairs 130 California Hall Berkeley, CA 94720-1504 EMAIL:gpadilla@uclink4.berkeley.edu TEL: (510) 642-6727 STUDENT JUDICIAL AFFAIRS OFFICER RAJMAIA EMAIL: osc@uclink4.berkeley.edu 326 Sproul Hall Berkeley, CA 94720 TEL:(510) 643-9069 FAX:(510) 643-3133
No Name Provided
CA USA - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 15:37:35 (PDT)

As Always .thanks for your visiting Ramallah . i hope to see you soon here . Just i want to say let us rebuilt Ramallah together
Shadi <shadi_pls@yahoo.com>
Ramallah, West NBank Palestine - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 09:49:04 (PDT)

Spielberg wants to make a film which shows that brutality that Israel has imposed upon the Palestinians during the current uprising. To read more about it check out this link. http://www.palestinemonitor.org/comments/spielberg_to_direct_feature.htm
Sabrina Bateh <coconido@attbi.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 06:48:24 (PDT)

PALESTINIAN FAMILY in HOUSTON, TX NEEDS YOUR HELP!!! Please follow the link to the petition and sign. With your support, this family will be one step closer to living a secure life here in the U.S. rather than facing deportation and despair. http://www.petitiononline.com/Kesbeh/petition.html Thanks....and may God reward you for your support.
Caring Individual <Shazarr79@aol.com>
Houston, TX USA - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 14:30:53 (PDT)

I'd like to comment on whether we should cancel the convention or not. I beleive that this would be a mistake only for the reason that with so many palestinians at one place, we could seriously discuss how ways we could help are struggling brothers and sisters back home.
Anthony Kandah <Ak4life00@aol.com>
Darien, IL USA - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 11:02:49 (PDT)

http://www.petitiononline.com/Kesbeh/petition.html palestinian family in the u.s. needs your support. please sign and pass on.
Support
houston, USA - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 10:10:05 (PDT)

Hey Maha, I hope you have been to this website and read this cause this is kinda your cousin Natalie..... anyways I have enjoyed seeing you in alabama! Your hair looks really cool hilited. Well anyways I tried but i didnt have the blood. I hope you find the MATCH FOR MAHA!
Natalie <angelnat11@hotmail.com>
casselberry, florida USA - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 13:38:53 (PDT)

Please vote now!!! http://uspolitics.about.com/library/blmiddleeastpoll.htm
Desert Diva
SF, CA USA - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 10:22:43 (PDT)

As you are all well aware, the Palestinian people living in the West Bank and Gaza Strip have been under very fierce and brutal attacks for the past month. In order to help those who cannot help themselves in this time of crisis, I have coordinated a fund raising drive. The donations collected will be sent to those who have lost their jobs and have no other means or income, those who cannot buy even the most basic essentials of survival. Any financial aid that you can afford to send will be greatly welcomed. One hundred percent of the donations will be sent directly to those in need, without the use of any middlemen. Donations should be sent to: Holy Transfiguration Church Palestinian Relief 8501 Lewinsville Road McLean, Virginia 22102 Thank you for your generosity.
No Name Provided
USA - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 22:09:38 (PDT)

As much as I would like to submit my opinion into our guestbook.....I don't have time right now! I am just taking a study-break and wanted to tell everyone....GOOD LUCK ON FINALS!!!! Also best of luck to everyone graduating!
Nadia <nads109@aol.com>
Mi USA - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 17:24:44 (PDT)

Hello everyone. I begin by wishing peace to all of my brothers and sisters here in the states and especially in our homeland. I would like to tell everyone about a project that I am working on with one of my friends. It is known as "The Awareness Movement" We ae trying to raise funds to place ads in our local newspaper. These ads will try to counter the bias that exists in the media. If you have been watching CNN and MSNBC, you know what I am talking about. We are raising these funds by selling T-Shirts that we have created. Please see them at http://www.awarenessmovement.com . The site explains everything. In addition to raising funds for placing ads, we are also giving a portion of the proceeds to the Palestine Children's relief Fund... http://www.thepcrf.com May God Bless you all. - T
Tarick <tarick@gatorhouse.com>
Houston , TX USA - Sunday, April 21, 2002 at 20:34:51 (PDT)

I heard of a movie called "the palestinian" which I was told was banned in the USA, (Im sure the reason is obvious) anyway I am trying to locate this film. Does anyone have any ideas? Please let me know. Also. do not cancel the convention, in this time of despair we need to bridge the gaps between our community and work togrther to support our brothers and sisters who suffer, we need to unite and share ideas and create new agendas to support our cause and the convention is the perfect opportunity.
Richard T. Mufarreh <rtm830@hotmail.com>
chicago, ill USA - Sunday, April 21, 2002 at 15:18:53 (PDT)

On behalf of my family and I, I am writing to offer our sincerest wishes for peace and right reinstatement of Palestine for the people of Palestine. We are Syrian Orthodox Christians and as such it is difficult watching the American Christian Religious right destroy our (and their) heritage. I am a teacher in a public school and have spent 5 weeks with my students divising a peace plan for the holy land. I am very proud of their work and will be displaying our website soon... My family and I also ask you to lend whatever support you can to arab-american relief agencies such as anera.org to help out in whatever way you can. Just Pgh's Jewish community alone raised 1.3 million in a couple weeks for Israel. I read that ANERA raised only 1.4 million itself. We must take action now to prevent this attempted genocide- send money, get involved with arab-american pac's, write letters to your congressmen. Dont let Israel get away with this.... "Evil flourishes when good men do nothing!"- from emmay- (my mom)
Michael Kemrer <mkemrer@hotmail.com>
Pgh, PA USA - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 16:15:56 (PDT)

I dont understand how we can go on with the convention plans while our freinds and family back home are living through this hell on earth????? I say Cancel the convention and stop thinking about the money....
Maher <Maher33@Hotmail.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 13:28:14 (PDT)

The Outside In (to those who share) You. You make my father sit. And watch. CNN. And rub his knees. And silence the world. You. You make me watch. Him. Rub his knees. Ignoring my calls to dinner. You. You make my mother fidget. As the magluba gets cold. Her ears are listening to you. Because he listens to you. You. You want land? There are homes. Built with bare hands With years of labor in America. And yearly investments to welcome. You. You make the tourists fade. My father homed them. So they could see you. You. You don’t want to be seen? Then hide. Make him turn off the TV. And come to dinner. Maha A. Ghanem
Maha A. Ghanem <maharutgers@aol.com>
Dunellen, NJ USA - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 12:31:42 (PDT)

I lived in Ramallah, Palestine for 3 years!!! Does anyone know what is really going on here?? The Palestinians are mistreated. The news and media does not cover inside stories, how my cousin, a christian was taken out of his house in Ramallah, beaten & almost killed for nothing.. He has a family and does not belong in any groups. The Isrealies took him and blindfolded him, beat him and dropped him off somewhere... Maybe America and us in America and as Americans, should inform all the other Americans of what is REALLY going on... It hurts me to know innocent lives are getting taken..Please feel free to email me. I am planning to take a trip to Ramallah in a month, I am looking to raise money to donate to the Ramallah hospital. Fell free to call or email me regarding this. Maggie Shihadeh P.O. Box 8066 Piscataway, NJ 08855 Telephone: (732) 648-1129 THANK YOU
Maggie Shihadeh <bebeegirlee23@aol.com>
Piscataway, NJ USA - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 10:23:08 (PDT)

VIDEO: Neil Macdonald for CBC TV. Israeli army assault on a Palestinian home in Bethlehem in which a mother -hit by an Israeli tank shell- bled to death in front of her husband and five children.

George J. Wakileh
Bowling Green, KY USA - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 06:06:09 (PDT)

REGARDING STORY ABOUT FAMILY IN BETHLHEM - IT APPEARS THE STORY IS A HOAX (e-mail was also posted on www.electronicintifada.net) (Live from Palestine) From: Sherry Al-Mufti [SMTP:umrayya@earthlink.net] Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2002 2:00 AM To: Al-Awda-media@yahoogroups.com Subject: RE: [Al-Awda-media] Razook's email Annie, Several people and groups, including from Al-Awda Media have checked into this story independently. It is certainly a hoax very likely perpetrated by Zionists to discredit any information that comes from Palestinian or Arab sources. Sherry
Kathleen M. Abourezk, Esq. <abourezk@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 16:19:16 (PDT)

Please sign this petition. Do not disregard as a duplicate comment, for this is a different petition - Take Away Shimon Peres's Nobel Peace Prize http://www.petitiononline.com/semsem/
No Name Provided
CA USA - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 13:15:13 (PDT)

Here is a good book to read: THEY DARE TO SPEAK OUT - People and Institutions Confront Irael's Lobby by Paul Findley Paul Findley a congressman from Illinois for twenty two years is the first auther to warn against the pervasive influence of Israel's lobby, he mades frequent trips to the Middle East where he has personal acquaintance with most heads of government and lectures at universities and foreign policy institutes here and abroad.
no name provided
USA - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 09:36:33 (PDT)

VOTE: http://uspolitics.about.com/library/weekly/aa032802a.htm
< >
USA - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 15:10:07 (PDT)

Just wanted the Palestinian people to know that I think about them here in Holland. Hold on people and I hope to visit you all sometime. Greetings from Holland.
Tarik Daoudi <Tarik.Daoudi@student.uva.nl>
Utrecht, Netherlands - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 01:42:20 (PDT)

Please sign. http://www.petitiononline.com/warcrime/
No Name Provided
USA - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 18:00:39 (PDT)

Goodly Greetings I need advice. I would love to give a donation to the "Death to Rushdie Fund". I am scared the money will go to the wrong people. Would anyone know where I would send the cheque? Thank you ever so ta.
Batholomew Christiansen
Yorkshire, England - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 20:40:45 (PDT)

Washington, DC protest on 4.20.02--details: http://www.internationalanswer.org
No Name Provided< >
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 15:38:33 (PDT)

Tsk, tsk, tsk, tsk. Leh, leh, leh. Harram alaikum. At the past three protests in Washington, DC I saw a total of about two people from the local Ramallah community. Where is the support for your country? The yahood had a huge rally yesterday with very high profile attendees and speakers, which garnered much publicity. Not only do I want to see all of the DC people at this Saturday's rally, but the non-locals need to hop on a bus, train, car, plane, bike, whatever and get to this rally to support our cause. http://www.internationalanswer.org
No Name Provided< >
USA - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 15:36:37 (PDT)

I am a first generation Ramallah American and I do not know as much as I feel I should. I went to the library Sunday and got a book PALESTINE AND ISRAEL A Challenge to Justice by author John Quigley. I have only read 30 pages so far. It is as if history is repeating itself. Except the ones who were doing the bombing in market places were the Fighters for the Freedom of Israel.It shows how the Zionist want All of Palestine for themselves and how MONEY AND PLANNING AND POLITICS played a major role. plus Britain and United States. I feel this book should be read by all of you and reporters too. In respect to the convention. I believe we should have it. First of all it has always been a social convention. non political. but i feel it would be a time to discuss politics and start some kind of lobbying. we need to learn and do what the others do.
No Name Provided
USA - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 14:23:38 (PDT)

I am just writing to say that we need to fight harder for what is rightfully ours!!! Our land-our traditions-our family, our humanity!!!! No one has the right to treat anyone like trash, we are all human beings and deserve to be treated like one. What makes the Palestinians any different than any other group of people.....this outrageous war is killing our children and is destroying our furture.....SPEAK UP AND LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!!!!
Nijmeh
USA - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 08:34:19 (PDT)

>> > >> > ALL OUT FOR PALESTINE! >> > >> > DEMONSTRATE AT THE WHITE HOUSE >> > SATURDAY APRIL 20 >> > 11 A.M. >> > (Gather at the Ellipse, south side of the White House, >> > Constitution and 16th St. NW) >> > >> > Al-Awda Palestine Right of Return NY/NJ calls on all Arab >> > and Muslim people and all people of conscience to >> > participate in a mass demonstration for Palestine on >> > Saturday, April 20 gathering at the White House (south >> > side on the Ellipse, 16th & Constitution NW). >> > >> > Thousands of people from the Arab and Muslim community >> > will join tens of thousands of others who will denounce >> > the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people. >> > The demonstration is at the White House because the >> > A.N.S.W.E.R. Coalition (the initiator of the action) is >> > mobilizing opposition to the policy of George W. Bush >> > which has given the green light and full backing to Ariel >> > Sharon?s butchery. >> > >> > This demonstration will call for an immediate end to U.S. >> > aid to Israel and will highlight the just cause and heroic >> > resistance of the Palestinian people. >> > >> > Bring buses, vans and cars from our community to make this >> > demonstration at the White House a massive turnout. The >> > *BUS DROP-OFF* will be at Constitution Avenue and 16th and >> > Street NW (one block south of the White House). >> > >> > On April 22 at 5:30 PM, Al-Awda, along with many other >> > organizations and supporters of the Palestinian people, >> > will be demonstrating at the AIPAC Conference (American >> > Israeli Public Affairs Committee) at the Washington >> > Hilton. War criminal Ariel Sharon and George W. Bush are >> > scheduled to be honored at the AIPAC banquet.
Palestinian
USA - Monday, April 15, 2002 at 19:47:48 (PDT)

cONVENTION OR NOT? GOOD QUESTION...CAN WE USE IT T HELP INFORM AMERICAN PUBLIC THAT RESISTANCE TO OCCUPATION IS NOT TERROR BUT A DUTY/CAN WE HAVE 1000 + people demonstate for freedom ala 4th of July? is federation gonna to cooperatee or shall we form A PALESTINIAN AMERICAN ORGANIZATION TO TAKE OVER? your opinion will sway the do-nothing Federation
Ramallite
mICH, USA - Monday, April 15, 2002 at 18:41:56 (PDT)

has anyone heard any information about the Rally being held in DC? I seen the Pro-Isreali Rally in D.C. and there saying it was a success. People from all over showed up and I would like to see the same kind of support from the Palestinian people. We should hop on some busses and get out there, and let our voices be heard.
Darrik Foreal
USA - Monday, April 15, 2002 at 13:25:13 (PDT)

I used to genuinely feel sorry for the Palestinians and wished to help, even my small way. After seeing the behaviour of their supporters at the Durban racist conference, I just lost interest.
Jesus Uzumkulu
Kwazulu, SA - Sunday, April 14, 2002 at 07:51:36 (PDT)

http://www.msnbc.com/news/735880.asp
Miranda Bateh *Cast your vote!!!!!!!!*
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 18:04:27 (PDT)

Hey everyone. As tragedies are happening every day in our nation Palestine, I am very pleased to see the effort in our Ramallah community to try to help the future of our country. As somebody who has immediate family living & struggling between the bloodshed, words cannot describe my sadness & sympathy... Now as far as the convention being held in Chicago this year.. everyone so far has made very valid points.. except one. Bloodshed & war has been going on for 54 years, some years more & worse than others, and some less. Conventions have been happening for 44 years, & not once has it been cancelled due to the sad situations in Palestine. I strongly believe that at this convention, our voices should be heard, and that it should be focused not only on the future of our Federation, but the future of our country. I agree with Ms. Sophia Sahouri :-)~ when she says that we should all be UNDERSTANDING of both sides, holding a convention is hard work, and it consumes your life for 2 years in planning it. May God bring peace to our nation, and to our people.
Lora Eadeh <LoLaLooLa@aol.com>
Cleveland, USA - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 15:41:39 (PDT)

I am Jewish and my wish is that there is peace. If peace is reached, I will be the happiest person in the world. What about the suicide bombers? Basically I hate them. There is only one time I encourage them. That is when they suicide bomb the settlements in Wesbank and Gaza. If I drove a tank, I would actually help them. Except if possible, they avoid suicide to do it.
Eric
Montreal, Canada - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 14:29:32 (PDT)

Please vote in this msnbc/wsj poll. So far people are voting saying this catastrophe is the Palestinian's fault, but we'll change that...right??? http://www.msnbc.com/news/735880.asp Also, in regards to convention, sure we should have it. Except, instead of the nightclubs and meatmarkets, let's try and make a difference for once. Have workshops to make plans on how to help Palestine--setting up volunteer work, assigning spokespersons for schools to educate the public, develop fundraising strategies to help rebuild the area, develop plans on how to make our lobbies more powerful. How about that? If it's the usual "dinner cruise by twilight" or "poolside party" then the Federation should change its agenda fast. This is not the time to party. Period.
Desert Diva
SF, USA - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 14:02:37 (PDT)

Hey Everyone,I think this is a time where we all need to look at the facts of this situation. The worse thing is happening to our people back home and this is a time to stick together and stand for what we beleive in, A Palestinian Nation. And canceling the convention is not going to help that. For those of you who think that we should cancel the convention I want you to look at these facts. The Ramallah Federation is not there for just for conventions, it is there to let the world know where we are from, Ramallah Palestine. Sorta like a representation here in America of our Ramallah people back home. And of all conventions, we need to have this convention. Not to go have a great time, which either way is going to happen. But to go and let people know that we as Arab-Americans are here in America and we have to let them know that we stand for our people back home. If we cancel this convention we let them win. We have to go to this convetion this year and make the difference, by going to the convention and contributing to the Federation, so that they will always be there. We have to Let America know we are here and are not going anywhere. And just like the people back home we will fight. I know people are going to go to the convention and are going to forget why they are there but we have to remind them and rememeber ourselves why we are there. And to remember that there are people fighting for what we are able to say so easy. ( i'm from Palestine) So, I say the convention go on. But I also would have to see the Chicago committee or the Federation having something special about this convention for Our People back home who are and were fighting for Palestine. God Bless Everyone. May God Bring Peace to Our People. Jennifer
Jennifer
Detroit, MI USA - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 08:54:00 (PDT)

Candle Light Vigil for Peace in Palestine Please only bring candles Houston, Texas Friday: April 12, 2002 7:00-9:30 p.m. In front of the Israeli Consulate at the Greenway Plaza between Weslayan and Richmond (near Edwards Theater) Sponsored by: CAIR, Kinkos, and Party City Towing enforced, so please park in designated areas Hope to see you all there!!!!!!!!
M.K.
TX USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 21:04:59 (PDT)

Dear all: Please sign this petition and pass it around to everyone you know. It is very important to collect at least 1,000,000 signatures. Don't wait; just pass it to everyone you know without delay. This is a petition that may help lawyers in Belgium who are suing Ariel Sharon for wae crimes. They need 1,000,000 signatures, so please sign it and pass it on. The website is given below. Thanks for all your help. http://www.petitiononline.com/warcrime/petition.html
Michelle
TX USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 20:33:55 (PDT)

I have been on a convention committe and know the dedication and hard work it takes to get it going. I also comend the Chicago community on their efforts. However, the convention agenda should be altered to respect our heritage. I, myself, enjoy convention and look forward to meeting kne people...It saddens me to know that now is not the time to be "social," but a time to unite and help perserve what we are slowly loosing!! God Bless
Ramallahite
Houston, TX USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 19:46:03 (PDT)

Is a distasteful, and therefore censorsed, entry one that attacks our alleged Federation's lack of response to this crisis? One that attacks the fact the our alleged federation is too busy hosting a forum to debate whether or not to have a convention rather than working towards educating the American public as to the facts surrounding this crisis? If your answer is yes, then tell me what makes you any different from the occupiers? PS can anyone verify the name Rzook in my post below and that they do indeed live in Bethlehem?
Kathleen M. Abourezk, Esq. <abourezk@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 18:47:05 (PDT)

FOR PARTIES INTERESTED IN HELPING IN PALESTINE ... Freedom Summer in Palestine, 2002! Fifty-four (54) days of non-violent, direct actions by Palestinians and Internationals to promote freedom and justice for Palestine. 1 Coordinated in numerous areas throughout the West Bank and Gaza. 2 Coordinated with public awareness, media and promotional work. 3 Documented and reported daily, with press conferences held as necessary. 4 Includes local training by internationals for Palestinians in using technology to promote and document their struggle, and includes the donation of tools (cameras, computers) to local areas for such purposes. 5 International support through lobbying, educational and public awareness campaigns in US and Europe. Freedom Summer is based on the notion that International Civilians are a resource for Palestinians in their struggle against occupation and for freedom and justice. As such, teams of International Civilians will be stationed for the entire period of Freedom Summer in various regions (Nablus, Salfit, Ramallah, Jerusalem, Bethlehem/Beit Jala/Beit Sahour, Hebron, Gaza and Rafah). They will be hosted by Palestinians and will work with local community leadership to protest and take direct action against occupation forces. They will also document and report on their actions and the various criminal actions of the Israeli occupation forces - incursions, home demolitions, arrests, etc. At the local level, Palestinians will organize, train and coordinate a summer program of activities and actions to involve all elements of Palestinian society. Obviously not everyone is comfortable taking the same risks or participating in direct confrontations with soldiers, police and settlers. As such, local committees will determine various roles and levels of participation for all, so that there is "something for everyone." Freedom Summer is a mobilization of the Palestinian people for justice, for rights and for freedom. Like the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, India's National Liberation Movement and the Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa, Freedom Summer will utilize nonviolent direct action strategies and tactics to overcome oppression. This is not a cause of Palestinian against Israeli or Arab against Jew - rather it is a cause of humanity against injustice, against oppression and for freedom. Levels of Action People (both international and Palestinian) are comfortable doing actions at different levels of confrontation and risk. While it is agreed ahead of time that any action has the potential of eliciting an unexpected response, it will be planned ahead of time for different levels of action so as to accommodate and involve as much of the communities as possible. Level 1 - non-confrontational with Israeli soldiers or settlers, protesting or working in solidarity with the Palestinian community on local projects, etc. Level 2 - confrontational, but not direct action - more along the lines of protesting in front of soldiers or settlers. Level 3 - direct action in removing the occupation through nonviolent means - roadblock removal, engaging tanks/military by taking over checkpoints, etc. Timeline Until February 1st Meet with local Palestinian leaders, organizations to explain idea of Freedom Summer and get on-board February 1st Launch of Freedom Summer 2002 as a campaign, with functioning office, functioning Steering Committee and initial meetings to determine work of campaign Until February 15th Survey and Poll taken of Palestinian population regarding attitude towards and willingness to participate in non-violent/direct-action campaign with international civilian participation, including assessment of levels of participation by demographic category (age/gender) and by region February 15th - April 15th Town Hall Meetings in all localities where Freedom Summer teams will be present April 15th - May 31st Commence preparations in local communities to prepare for hosting groups from overseas June 20th - June 23rd Orientation and Training June 24th - June 26th Groups arrive at locations and acclimate June 26th - August 7th Freedom Summer Campaign August 8th - August 11th Follow-Up, Wrap Up, Press conferences, big events Those that can only stay for a shorter time period are welcome. There will be different "levels of involvement" for those comfortable with different levels of confrontation and risk. More information will also be on the ISM website soon (www.palsolidarity.org). To participate or for more information, please contact Jordan Flaherty at anticapitalist@hotmail.com. ------------------------------------------------------------------ --- from list postcolonial@lists.village.virginia.edu ---
rana saba <ranasaba@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 08:58:27 (PDT)

please, speak up! Let our Voices be HEARD. Dont let the stiff acts of injustice, rule us, and the land we live on! Go to CNN.COM and vote NO. http://edition.cnn.com/
No Name Provided
USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 07:28:09 (PDT)

Every individual is going to have his or her own opinion about the convention & whether or not it should still be held, however, it’s not as easy as everyone thinks to just cancel it like that. Unless you have been involved in planning a convention in the past, I don’t think most of you (including myself) have ANY idea how difficult, hard work & time consuming it is. Chicago is only a few months away & there are several consequences to cancel it, including the hotel arrangements, airfare purchases, ect. I completely understand why we shouldn't have it because it wouldn’t feel right partying considering the situation back home. Maybe if the convention continues for whatever reasons, we could have more cultural and educational sessions, ect. It doesn’t help any to judge and criticize the hard work of the Chicago committee and everyone else involved. We should all be UNDERSTANDING of both sides and don’t assume those who don’t disagree with canceling the convention are all about partying and don’t sympathize. We are family and we all want what’s best to come out of this situation back home. I also wanted to share this website with everyone: http://www.abbc.com/islam/english/toread/frnklin.htm
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 06:52:40 (PDT)

FLOOD THE PHONE LINES President George W. Bush The White House 1600 Pennsylvanian Avenue Washington, DC 20500 Phone: (202) 456-1111 -- Fax: (202) 456-2461 E-mail: president@whitehouse.gov Vice President Dick Cheney The White House 1600 Pennsylvanian Avenue Washington, DC 20500 Phone: (202) 456-1111 -- Fax: (202) 456-2461 E-mail: vice.president@whitehouse.gov Condoleezza Rice National Security Advisor The White House 1600 Pennsylvanian Avenue Washington, DC 20500 Phone: (202) 456-1111 -- Fax: (202) 456-2461 Secretary of State Colin Powell U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street, NW Washington, DC 20520 Phone: (202) 647-6575 -- Fax: (202) 261-8577 phone: 202-647-5291 --- fax: 202-267-6434 E-mail: secretary@state.gov --------------------------------------------- Barbara Lee: phone: 202-226-0323 fax: 202-225-2661 Nancy Pelosi: phone: 202-225-4965 Dianne Feinstein: phone: 202-224-3841 fax: 202-228-3954 Barbara Boxer: phone: 202-224-3553 congressional switchboard (for other representatives): 202-224-3121 __________________________________ UNITED NATIONS ADMINISTRATION: webmaster@unhcr.ch areca@unhcr.ch unsco@palnet.com ecu@un.org coi@un.org webadmin.hchr@unog.ch EUROPEAN UNION: romano.prodi@cec.eu.int civis@europarl.eu.int epbrussels@europarl.eu.int public.info@consilium.eu.int belrep@belgoeurop.diplobel.fgov.be karin.roxman@consilium.eu.int christian.jouret@consilium.eu.int Javier.Sancho-Velazquez@consilium.eu.int CANADA: Prime minister (Jean Chretien pm@pm.gc.ca) Bill Graham (Bill Graham graham.b@parl.gc.ca). ISRAEL: Ariel Sharon, Israeli Prime Minister: rohm@pmo.gov.il or webmaster@pmo.gov.il Fax: +972 2 651 2631 Benjamin Ben Eliezer, Israeli Minister of Defense: Email: sgansar@mod.gov.il Shimon Peres, Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs: Fax: +972-2-5303367 Email: sar@mfa.gov.il Here is the phone number of the IDF Commander for the Ramallah area: +972-2-9970461 Mobile: +972-54-240-303 Voice your protest to him personally. MEDIA SOURCES: (in the US) The link below takes you to 100 U.S. Media Emails and Fax Numbers...and also offers tips for writing to them...Please flood them... http://www.thestruggle.org/Media.html ABC News - 212-456-4040 CBS News - 212-975-3691 NBC News - 212-664-4971 CNN - 404-827-1511 Fox News - 212-301-3300 MSNBC - 201-583-5222 PBS - 703-998-2150 NPR - 202-414-2200 NY Times - 212-556-1234 USA Today - 703-276-3400 WS Journal - 212-416-2000 Wash. Post - 202-334-6000 Time - 212-522-1212 U.S. News - 202-955-2000 AP 212-621-1600 MSNBC - 201-583-5000 CNBC - 201-585-2622 "Dan Rather" "NBC Nightly News" "MSNBC" "KOMO-TV4" "KIRO-TV7" "Peter Jennings" "CTV NATIONAL NEWS" "CNN" "CBC-TV" "CBCNEWS" "CBC VANCOUVER" "CBC THIS MORNING" "BCTV NEWS" "ABC World News Tonight"
rana saba <ranasaba@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 01:17:24 (PDT)

Dear Brothers, Sisters, and Friends, This is another urgent message to you all. First, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Nidal Baba. I am a Palestinian born here in the United States of America (Houston, Tx). My parents were born and raised in Ramallah and came to the United States in the early 70's. I have friends and family in Ramallah just like most of us do. I have received tremendous support for this movement and I want to thank all of you. I am organizing and collecting a database and I need your help. I have collect over 40 names in a matter of 15 minutes and I want to build this database to over 100,000+ people. I am in close contact with the Houston Chapter President of Ramallah, Abe Baba and the Deputy President of the Ramallah Federation, Dr. George Zeibak. This data base will allow me to contact you on very important matters such as meetings, protests, important phone numbers (i.e. White House), emails to important people such as senators and other government officials, status on current events in the Middle East, etc. I need you to send me back emails of other Palestinians and other people willing to help our cause. I will then add them into my database. For example, my friend Mimi in San Francisco will get this email and she will email me back the email addresses of her friends and family. I then will collect and enter their names and addresses in my database and then send them this email as well and hope they will respond with more email addresses. And the cycle goes on and on. Everyone is welcome to add their names to the database. This cause will help in freeing the Palestinians from occupation and allow for a Palestinian State to coexist with the a Jewish State. This data base will consist of Palestinians, Middle Easterns, Jews, Americans, Europeans, South Americans, Africans, etc., who are willing to help in our cause back home in Ramallah and other occupied territories. The cause is for freedom, the end to occupation, and the end to the death of innocent civilians both Palestinians and Jews. We want peace with our neighbors, but first we must free the Palestinians and give Hope to our people. Please help me in collecting the information. If can just send me back a list of your family and friends of people who are willing to make a change it would be wonderful. Your Friend, Nidal Baba
rana saba <ranasaba2AUCEGYPT.EDU>
USA - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 01:12:51 (PDT)

NO CONVENTION
MARIAM
- Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 20:09:16 (PDT)

Plesse distribute this petition: "Campaign to Free Palestinian Child Political Prisoners" hosted on the web by PetitionOnline.com http://www.PetitionOnline.com/dcips/
No Name Provided
, CA USA - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 11:02:31 (PDT)

Dear all: Please sign this petition and pass it around to everyone you know. It is very important to collect at least 1,000,000 signatures. Don't wait; just pass it to everyone you know without delay. This is a petition that may help lawyers in Belgium who are suing Ariel Sharon. They need 1,000,000 signatures, so please sign it and pass it on. The website is given below. Thanks for all your help. http://www.petitiononline.com/warcrime/petition.html
Petition
USA - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 08:42:05 (PDT)

People talk about cancelling the convention because we can't possibly have fun with what is happening in ramallah. Thats not the case of the convention, at least not for me. I go there to meet new people and hear different tales about the storied city. I also go there to learn more about my culture and my ancestors. Although fun is an added bonus, I do believe every convention I comeback with something to share with the rest of my community. I also believe that this years convention should be more focused on the situation in Palestine. As descendents of a city that is torn apart we must unite and demonstate our voices to President Bush and the rest of the world. All these years I have seen the AFRP be subtle in there attempts to pursuade the U.S. government. This must stop we must take a stronger position and more controversial outlook on the whole situation. Today more than ever we must let our voice be heard.
No Name
Livonia, MI USA - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 19:54:02 (PDT)

Since it appears you censored my last attempt at posting a message perhaps this will put us all in the covention spirit: April 08, 2002 Palestinians report Israelis raping women By Anthony Rzook I am Anthony Razook, I am writing to you tonight, the local time here is 9:49pm in the night time, in Bethlehem, Palestine. I came with some friends to the camp of the Antiochian Orthodox in the United States, some few years back, and now I am writing to you all in distress for some help for our peoples in Palestine. Last night, the Israeli tanks and military personal, broke into our homes, they entered my sister and her husband's home around 2:30 in the morning this morning. They proceeded to attack my sister, one of the military men made attacks on her that were not appropriate, he violated her in more than one way. My sister is 4 months pregneat,and for sure she has most likely lost the baby, when he was finished violating her, two other army men did the same thing. When she refused and tried to fight them off, they beat her, more in the stomach, her husband Marwahn was shot three times in the back of the neck, when he tried to stop them, this morning at around 5 in th! e morning he died from the wounds. When they stopped violating my sister they then threw her on the bed, all of this horrible things were witnesse by her seven year old son, my nephew Michel. At the end of them beating and violating my sister, they then stole her jewelry, her monies, and some other things, at that point they went and totally destroyed different things in her apartment home. As of this morning, she feels that she had a miscarriage of the baby, also, these same solidiers came into our home, and we were blessed from God that my father had cash (almost two thousand shekals) and he gave it to the soliders, he also took gold from his own neck, from myself, and my younger sister and my mother. The soliders in hebrew, (we understand hebrew) told my father that his wife was too old and un attractive to have sexually things with, and that we should feel lucky about this- but that they had all shared the woman in the apartment before ( my sister) - then my mother asked to please allow the soliders to bring medicine for my sister, and to please help to remove my brother in law body, from the apartment, they would not, my poor mother was to afraid to cry, as to what had happend because they would kill us too- please, you must help us. We are being persecuted and their is not an end in sight. Your country doesn't allow you to know the news of what is really happening to our peoples. In Nablus, their were calls ! made from cell phones that tell us that over 86 womans were raped and beaten and theirs is manys of people men, their husbands that have been killed when they are trying to stop these soliders. Your government is standing and allowing this to happen. None of the arabic countries are helping us? What are we to do? Please help us, I must go- i was gracious from God to have enough batteruy in my lap computer to send u this e-mail. i am scared that i will not be able to read ur responses, please help us, please, send this email to anyone who care to help the christians in Palestine, Please Help
Kathleen M. Abourezk, Esq. <abourezk@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 18:28:29 (PDT)

It saddens me to report that the Orthodox Church of the Redeemer in Los Altos Hills, CA was burnt to the ground yesterday. The cause is unknown at this point, but they are not ruling out hate crimes/arson. This is a church in the San Francisco Bay Area that most Orthodox Ramallah (and non-Ramallah) people attend. Luckily, no one was hurt. What a horrible tragedy! May god be with us all.
No Name Provided
CA USA - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 15:47:21 (PDT)

http://www.a2zegypt.com/isr_heaven1.swf chk
No Name Provided
USA - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 17:29:28 (PDT)

A n interesting article "Moral Duty, National Interest" By Dr. Brzezinski.

``But it is important to note that Mr. Sharon's retaliation over the last year has focused largely on undermining the existing Palestinian Authority, much in keeping with his decade-long opposition to the Oslo peace process and his promotion of colonial settlements in the West Bank and Gaza.

...

In these circumstances, America cannot ignore world public opinion. There is a nearly unanimous global consensus that United States policy has become one-sided and morally hypocritical, with clear displays of sympathy for Israeli victims of terrorist violence and relative indifference to the (much more numerous) Palestinian civilian casualties. At risk is America's ability to maintain international support for the war on terrorism, and especially for plans to deal with Saddam Hussein.

President Bush's statement on the crisis on Thursday took an important step toward shedding the administration's ambiguous and, of late, somewhat incoherent posture. But it falters on three points.

...

First, by noting that an imminent agreement on a cease-fire was aborted by the bombing of March 27, Mr. Bush risks making the peace process again a hostage to any future terrorist act. Israel would be justified in retaliating against further Palestinian acts of terrorism, but reprisals should be aimed at actual perpetrators and not at destroying the Palestinian political structure. Second, Mr. Bush's highly personal condemnation of Yasir Arafat implies that the Palestinians should select their leader in keeping with American or even Israeli preferences. Third, the president's statement should have made clear that Secretary of State Colin Powell's mission to the Middle East is not to restart a process that focuses more on procedure than on substance. Secretary Powell should seek an Arab statement that categorically condemns suicide bombing even if it reserves the right of the Palestinians to resist the occupation and the settlements. Mr. Arafat could then issue such a statement without seeming to be bowing to American and Israeli dictates.´´
George J. Wakileh
Bowling Green, KY USA - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 14:06:11 (PDT)

I am praying for your people. You should fight for your home. If the Israelis were trying to take my home, I would fight also. I respect you and your beliefs. I needed to let you know, that there are a lot of us in America that are not Muslim, that support you and your people. Don't let them take away your freedoms in this country. I wish too that those young people in Palestine did not blow themselves up. I pray for peace in your homeland and for all those innocent people being killed by Sharon/hitler. We are all brothers and sisters in God's eyes. From a Friend
Bonnie <bunkys@epix.net>
Shunk, Pa USA - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 08:25:08 (PDT)

Just a question for cjh from San Diego. Regarding the convention you say, and I quote "Now more than ever we need to attend and unite. We need to be strong and show our loyalty, support, and love to our brothers and sisters throughout Palestine, the U.S. and the rest of the world" My question is what are we showing the world by attending a convention. We spend four days eating, drinking, dancing and have fun. But where in this does it show our brothers and sisters in Ramallah loyalty, support and love. I don't think there is any way we can truely show them our loyalty, support and love unless we can feel the suffering they have to go through every day. Partying while they are suffering shows no loyalty. I hate to say this but I also agree that maybe the convention should be cancelled. Between hotel, airline tickets, registration, extra activity tickets, new wardrobe, etc. each person easily spends $800 to $1000 dollars on a convention. This year each person should put that money towards winning back and rebuilding Ramallah.
No Name Provided
USA - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 15:12:46 (PST)

I just have a quick comment to those of you who are selfishly saying the convention should still go on. You claim it unifies us and that the convention is a great way for us to display our culture and heritage. Let's get real, most people go to the convention to get a way, meet new people and have fun. Who really attends the meetings and displays our culture and heritage other than the host city. I know it takes alot of work to host a convention, and don't get me wrong I love going to the conventions every year. However this year I believe there are more important issues to put our funds towards rather than a four day party. In Ramallah people are not allowed outside their front doors. No going to the grocery store to buy food for their kids, no water, no electricity. We must quit believing if we can't feel it it doesn't hurt us. Because it does hurt ALL of us. We can continue on with our lives in the freedom of America attending conventions, going out with friends and partying, acting like there is nothing going on back home. However, what would this say about us Arab Americans? We are showing that we are no better than the rest of the world who turns a blind eye to the horror happening in Ramallah and all over the Middle East. We must stop all the talk and start taking action. I urge everyone, this year please put yours funds toward helping our families back home. Before back home no longer exsists and becomes a word of the past.
M.K. <mkone4u2c@aol.com>
TX USA - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 14:56:35 (PST)

I agree with the other people who have commented about this years convention. I agree that the convention is a form of unity and a way to encourage our history. However, OUR history is being torn apart by terrorists who insist Palestine is their home, indeed it is not their home. We need to reconsider the idea of a "convention" and encourage the federation as well as each Ramallah club to promote a fundraiser to take back what is rightfully ours. We are not marching in demonstrations so that we can turn right around and party,we are marching to be heard...If we all unite as a Ramallah community, as proud Palestinian people who have a right in America to be heard. Lets not let the spirit of togetherness die,lets just find others ways to unite.......GOD BLESS
Donna D-Proud Palestinian <DDihu@aol.com>
Houston, TX USA - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 12:06:45 (PST)

Friday's demonstration was a huge success!! Hundreds of people attended the protest. The demonstration was in front of the Israeli Consulate building here in Houston. Thanks to all those who came out and showed their support for our cause. By the grace of GOD, we will inshallah continue the struggle for OUR country!!
No Name Provided
Houston, TX USA - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 12:00:03 (PST)

I AM DISAPPOINTED WITH THE PEOPLE WHO SAY WE SHOULD NOT HAVE A CONVETNION THIS YEAR BECAUSE OF THE HORRIBLE SITUATION IN PALESTINE. ISRAEL HAS STOLEN OUR LAND AND KILLED OUR PEOPLE, DO NET LET THEM STOP US FROM HAVING A GREAT CONVENTION AND LET THEM ROB OF US OF OUR FREEDOM IN AMERICA TOO. PLUS, THE RAMALLAH CLUB AND ITS CONVENTIONS HELP KEEP THE PALESTINIANS AND ARAB COMMUNTY UNITED AND STRON SO THAT WE CAN BE AN ACTIVE AND ORGANIZED PEOPLE. IFWE CANNOT STAY UNIFIED AND ORGANIZED THEN WE WILL NEVER GET ANYTHING ACCOMPLISHED. THE CONVENTIONS IS A GREAT WAY FOR US TO DISPLAY OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE AND SHOW THAT WE ARE PROUD TO BE ARABS. IF WE DONT DO A CONVENTION THEN ITS AS IF THE ISRAELIS HAVE WON.
ANSAR ASAD OWAIS <OOWWAAIISS@AOL.COM>
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA USA - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 21:32:09 (PST)

This year's convention is being held at the Hyatt, which is owned by a family that donates to the Israel cause. Please take this into consideration when making your vacation plans.
No Name Provided
USA - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 15:50:00 (PST)

We, the Ramallah Community, need to continue on with our annual conventions. By no means should it ever be cancelled. Do not let fear and the horrible current events get in the way. Now more than ever we need to attend and unite. We need to be strong and show our loyalty, support, and love to our brothers and sisters throughout Palestine, the U.S. and the rest of the world. As well, we need to start a fund in order to rebuild our Ramallah and our Palestine. I pray for PEACE.
cjh
San Diego, CA USA - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 14:00:26 (PST)

I received an email stating: Israeli sympathizers are bombarding the White House with phone calls, faxes and e-mails protesting President Bush's speech yesterday. We must all get on the phone today, tomorrow and the remainder of this week and keep calling the White House every day to thank President Bush for finally getting involved in the crisis. Every phone call, fax, and e-mail is tallied. Phone calls and faxes are the most important. Please invest the few dollars necessary to place a couple of long distance calls to the White House. If you do not make YOUR voice heard, the other side will. Please forward this e-mail to all Arab American's you know and urge them to voice their opinion to the President. . It is the only way we can make a difference for our brothers in sisters that are suffering in Palestine. WHITE HOUSE: Tel: 202-456-1414/1111 (Ask for the comment line) Fax: 202-456-2461 E-Mail: President George W. Bush: president@whitehouse.gov Vice President Dick Cheney: vice.president@whitehouse.gov
Sophia Sahouri <Sophia@INAinsurance.com>
Great Falls, VA - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 13:02:35 (PST)

It is time for the United Nations (UN), not the United States, to get involved in this action. In fact, I think that the United Nations Building & Headquarters, should be right in the middle of Jerusalem and Jerusalem should be made an international city. Why? Because it is the root city of all religions on Earth. At least it would stop all of the killing of innocent people on both sides. Yes, be brave Palestine and fight these invaders. I wish I could do more to help you. I wish your young people did not have to become suicide bombers just to have your freedom. It is your land that you fight for. It is time for Israel to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1402, which the United States voted for, and which demands an immediate withdrawal from Palestinian towns re-invaded by Israel since Friday.
Ralph Thompson <ralphthompson@yahoo.com>
Orlando, FL USA - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 07:31:04 (PST)

HOW THE HELL CAN YOU PEOPLE THINK OF THE STUPID CONVENTION AT A TIME LIKE THIS! WHY? SO YOU CAN DANCE, SHOWOFF, AND HAVE FUN....WHILE OUR PALI PEOPLE ARE DYING FOR US SO WE CAN HAVE A COUNTRY WE CAN SAY WE ARE FROM. WHY DONT WE HAVE A FUNDRAISER, NOT WASTE MONEY ON HOTEL AND AIRLINE TICKETS. GIVE THAT MONEY TO REBUILD OUR CITY. THINK ! THATS WHY WE ARE LOSING PALESTINE...BECAUSE OF THE LACK OF CONCERN, AND SELF RIGHTEOUS PERCEPTIONS WE HAVE. FIGHT FOR PALESTINE, NOT A CONVENTION. AS A RAMALLAH CITIZEN I PROTEST THIS CONVENTION OR ANY OTHER RELATED FUNCTIONS. LONG LIVE FALASTEEN!
No Name Provided
- Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 22:11:39 (PST)

Alan Keyes of MSNBC makes much nonsense. He is clealrly anti freedom, anti Arabs, anti Palestinians, pro occupation and pro Israeli brutality. You can email him your views at alankeyes@msnbc.com or through chat.msnbc.com.
George J. Wakileh
Bowling Green, KY USA - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 21:42:57 (PST)

Unfortunatly I also do not feel safe attending a Ramallah Convention this year, although I have not missed one in over 10 years. If I were to attend I would also feel somewhat guilty about partying and enjoying our selves while our sisters and brothers back home are dying. I believe the money we would have spent on this years convention should still be collected then sent oversees to provide aid in any way it can. Just a thought. God Bless You All.
M.K.
TX USA - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 21:07:21 (PST)

J.J. from CA....My family and I were excited to attend the Chicago convention this summer but with what's going on over in the Middle East we have had some concern about attending as well. Ramallah has been all over the news these days so your not the only one out there with safety concerns. How safe my family and I will feel there will be what determines if we attend or not.
No Name
MI USA - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 20:42:35 (PST)

Be brave Palestine and fight these invaders!! Wish we could help you more.... wish your young people did not have to become suicide bombers but I understand the frustration at the occupying forces!! You belong there..... they do not!!
Magnus <magnusfenian1@aol.com>
Edinburgh, Scotland - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 15:36:00 (PST)

Arabs living here have noting to hide because our Palestinian people back home are fighting a just struggle for their freedom and independence. I think now more then ever, we should all attend the conventions and show our support and donate money to our people...
JS
Israeli Occupied, USA - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 08:28:24 (PST)

By the grace of God, Monday's demonstration in Houston, Texas was a great sucess with hundreds of supporters showing up. There is another planned demonstration for: Date: Friday, April 5, 2002 Time: 2:30 - 6:30pm Location: In Front of the Israeli Consulate in Houston Address: 24 Greenway Plaza Weslayan at Hwy 59 Compass Bank Building God willing, Friday's demonstration will be even bigger and better
Hope to See You All There
USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 21:08:18 (PST)

reply for JJ... The ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) has set up call centers to aid those facing racial profiling problems in any situation, to aid those wrongfully targeted by federal investigations, and literature on what to do if targeted. Please visit their site for all the free info. This is the National site, however it contains links to regional locations. www.aclu.org
D. E. Emison <deemison@hotmail.com>
OH USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 21:06:11 (PST)

Is it true that the Convention that is supposed to be held this year in Chicago is going to be cancelled? That is something I heard today and I was just curious if this is true. Thanks for any help.
No Name
USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 21:04:52 (PST)

Thank you for the positive means of helping us alleviate some of our anxieties and frustrations over the Middleast conflict. If you want to change people's behavior, you need to provide them with positive alternative means; in the middleast, it means giving the Palestinians their freedom, liberty and dignity on their own homeland. Just exactly who is going to rebuild all the destruction Sharon's militaristic approach is creating?
n.k.b <bbalmuth@san.rr.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 18:05:22 (PST)

Do you all think that we will be safe at the Ramallah Convention in July after what's taken place on 9/11 and what is going on in Ramallah now? I know the attitudes and stereotyping of people towards Arabs now is really bad and frankly, though I'd love to go, I'm somewhat afraid to take my family and attend the convention this year. What do the rest of you (Ramallah people) think?
J.J.
CA USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 15:38:01 (PST)

My prayers and heart goes out to all of my brothers and sisters who are suffering in Ramallah at this tragic time. It saddens me to see what is happening to them and I hope that justice will prevail soon. May god bless us all!
A Member of the Ramallah Community
San Francisco, CA USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 15:32:51 (PST)

URGENT: Israeli forces cut off all water supplies to Ramallah The following two messages were posted today at The Electronic Intifada's Live From Palestine section at http://www.electronicintifada.net/diaries/ The occupation forces have turned off the water supplies to the WHOLE of Ramallah seriously endangering 120,000 people. This action is a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Conventions. Please write and call the U.S. government immediately to demand specifically that the water be turned back on and that Israel be forced to end its occupation. *U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell Direct line: (202) 647-1512 Public Affairs Bureau: (202) 647-6575 Email: secretary@state.gov The Live from Palestine site is being updated all the time with information that you won't get in the mainstream media. Please use this information in all your contacts with government officials and the media. Ali Abunimah For The Electronic Intifada ***************************************************************** Wednesday, April 3, 2002 Israeli military turns off water to all Ramallah Posted by The Editor Al-Bireh/Ramallah, Occupied Palestine -- We have been without water since this morning. I just confirmed that the Israeli Military has taken over the main pumping station located in Betounia, next to the Preventive Security Building that was heavily shelled 2 nights ago. They have tuned off the pumps to ALL of Ramallah. Our water department does not know if any damage was done to the pump. We are calling on all to immediately bring this up in your media, talk shows, officials, etc. DEMAND ISRAEL TO LET PALESTINIANS HAVE ACCESS TO THEIR WATER. Ask your media to inquire with Israeli and U.S. officials. The whole of Ramallah and Al-Bireh are now utilizing their 24hr reserve tanks on the roofs of their homes. This is all being done as other Palestinian cities are facing the same Israeli rampage that Ramallah is facing. The situation is critical and needs immediate action. Sam Bahour ************************************************************* Wednesday, April 3, 2002 Ramallah is without water Posted by The Editor Ramallah -- I hope you get this message soon. The situation in Ramallah is as follows: many parts of the town continue to be without water. Even with the problems of water solved, it will not reach most homes because 6 out of 9 electrical feeding stations are down. No electricity means no water, no sewage pumping (serious for public health) and no ovens can work to bake bread, among other problems. Five of the main feeding stations that provide electricity to Ramallah and 24 western villages are located in the Ramallah industrial zone. The electricity company is not allowed by the Israeli army to reach the area to fix the problems. The company was given the ok this morning to fix two other feeding stations in the Al-Bireh area, where the governorate and President Arafat are located, but as they go out this morning, they are being harrassed and believe they are in danger. What we need is immediate intervention to get the feeding stations fixed in the industrial zone and in other areas. Without electricity, there will be no water and no bread and a major public health disaster. I hope you can work on this issue. The information in this email comes from the electricity company. about 120,000 people in Ramallah and surrounding villages are without electricity at this moment. Rita Giacaman Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University.
Darrik Foreal And Pablo Escobar
USA - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 08:52:52 (PST)

It is a time to rise up. It is a time to support our people. As I have family in Ramallah I'm sure you all do too. The Ramallah Club of Washington D.C. is holding a fundraiser this Saturday April 6, 2002. The gathering began as a celebration for our children who have graduated from high school or college, but in light of recent events we know this is no time for celebrating. It is a time for us to help those who are suffering, those who have lost children or other loved ones to the tirany of the Israeli government. Although your attendance would be appreciated, your donations would be appreciated greater. The more we raise the more we can help. For information on where the fundraiser will be held or where you can send donations to please contact Hussam Misleh at HMisleh@aol.com. Thank you
Charlie Eways <Mgeways@aol.com>
Chantilly, VA USA - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 22:55:32 (PST)

Great to see an attempt at something positive at this time which sadly sees Ramallah under seige.
jenny lavelle <jlavelle@vtown.com.au>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 22:45:00 (PST)

PLEASE CALL!!!!!--------The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), today called on President Bush to enforce UN Security Council Resolution 1402, which the United States voted for, and which demands an immediate withdrawal from Palestinian towns re-invaded by Israel since Friday. In defiance of the UN and US, Israel has instead expanded its attacks into Bethlehem, Qalqiliya, and other Palestinian towns, and continues to besiege Palestinian President Yasser Arafat in his Ramallah compound. ----------------------------------------------------------Please call the foreign policy hotline #202-647-6575. After you listen to the introduction message, hit option three to leave a message and #1 to begin recording!!! Colin Powell stands alone against Chaney & Rumsfeld and need documented calls to demonstrate American support for enforcing this!!! THANKS!!!!!!!
Nina
Va USA - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 13:06:35 (PST)

Happy Easter everyone!
Nadia Shahin <nads109@aol.com>
East Lansing, MI USA - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 12:38:31 (PST)

"I am a black South African, and if I were to change the names, a description of what is happening in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank could describe events in South Africa." —Archbishop Desmond Tutu, during Christmas visit to Jerusalem, December 25, 1989 (Ha'aretz; cited in Palestine Perspectives, January/February 1990)
Rana Saba <ranasaba@aucegypt.edu>
USA - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 11:04:53 (PST)

I have a very important question. I am not in any way trying to make light of people suffering. I would much rather everyone be happy and healthy. I really mean it. It is easy to flaunt words, but we must know what they mean. Can anyone please tell me, the exact definition of these four words: 1)Palestinian 2)Jew 3)Israeli 4)Arab We were all once a baby in the womb. Language is learnt by observation. Customs are also, they not passed in the blood. What exactly entitles some one to any of those labels? What is the threshold to be entitled to put a border around (for 50 years or 2000 years) and say "this belongs to us, others may not enter". What gave Israel a right to exist in the first place? What gave Palestine a right to exist in the first place? If some one can answer especially the first 4 questions, then we can use those labels. By all means, write about people suffering. We want the suffering to stop. Only use words if you know what they mean.
No Name Provided
USA - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 05:44:44 (PST)

ACT NOW Isreal in its latest has detained since Saturday (N Y Post 3/31/02)an American Citizen in its nazi like parades requiring all to report to schoolyards for interogation. The IRONY sickens me. For those that need any aid in speaking out, I urge contacting the White House and Secretary of State to show support for UN resolution 1402 and isreali withdrawl. May peace find everyone. White House------------------ fax# 202 456.2461 President@whitehouse.gov vice.president@whitehouse.gov State Dept.------------------ fax# 202 261.8577 secretary@state.gov ps.... somone should add this info/links to the main page?
D. E. Emison <deemison@hotmail.com>
USA - Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 21:41:29 (PST)

look at this site....www.tonyankar.com and click on the movie at the bottom of the page called desperation. it is moving.
mark <mankar2@comcast.net>
chattanooga, tn USA - Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 20:53:42 (PST)

Please pass this on to all you know. Lets all pray for justice and for our people. The following urgent call from members of Palestinian civil society was issued today. Nigel Parry for The Electronic Intifada http://electronicIntifada.net ----------- 29 March 2002 URGENT CALL TO WORLD CIVIL SOCIETY: BREAK THE CONSPIRACY OF SILENCE, ACT BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE
Richard T. Mufarreh <rtm830@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 12:18:04 (PST)

I'm in agreement about having our convention in Southern California one year. How can we go about getting that arranged?
A Ramallahian
USA - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 09:34:17 (PST)

J.S. p.p.s. You label me a "White South African" If you do want labels, Yes I am, 2 generations ago, half-Dutch half-English. J.S. Here is a question for you to please answer: If I gave you a brochure saying: "May every Zionist die in their blood. Death to Israel. Death Death Death". Could you from this brochure, work out 1)the history? 2)the situation? 3)the many aruguments of the situation? 4)Who is doing trade with who? Another question, if you were an independent observer reading this, which way would you turn towards? Well, living with this nonsense is part of life in South Africa. Many many children here have nightmares when they hear the word "Palestine". The reason ironically has nothing to do with the right/wrongs of the Middle East. It is from hearing people screaming "Death to, DEATH DEATH DEATH. As one example, I went to a rally where thousands of people filled a hall. People were taught to scream "Death to Zionism". (teaches me nothing really) the same meeting, we were taught to show how bad Zionism is, Hitler was a Zionist. In the same meeting, we were taught to scream Heil Hitler in the name of Zionism. This madness from Islamic societies here is part of life in South Africa. In case you wish to research this Hitler meeting in case you think I'm making it up, it was main hall University Cape Town, May 1987. I wish I could say that was the only event. Many people here who dislike Palestine, it's nothing to do with the Middle East. They just thinkg it's a type of religious cult, from people screaming "death death death, vivah Palestine."
Dirk
South Africa - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 09:18:37 (PST)

JS again You mention you used to the pro-Israel from White South Africans. Ironically, I knew little about the Middle East except aware there is a conflict there. It is the MOSLEM SOUTH AFRICANS who taught me to turn against Palestine, not any White group. That is why I'm asking people to please survey their behaviour behind my back. Any person can write any nonsense in a guestbook. That is why I want people to please RESEARCH my claims about Islam behaviour in South Africa.
Dirk p.s.
USA - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 08:57:57 (PST)

re: JS JS, let me tell you something. The Black people here (as you will agree with) were treated terribly. As bad as life here was for Moslems (and they had it REALLY BAD), for the Blacks here, it was ten times worse. With all the Black peoples' demonstrations and rallies in South Africa, most (not all) were justified. Not one of them had the words DEATH TO or MAY THEY DIE IN HELL. It would be END APARTHEID or THE PEOPLE WILL GOVERN etc. The Moslem rallies here (as any person who has been to South Africa can testify) are DEATH TO ZIONISM or MAY EVERY ZIONIST CURSE IN THE BLOOD OF THEIR ANCESTORS or distributing brochures with the words DEATH TO. or screaming fanatic curses through a megaphone with hundreds of fanatic fists waving. Why can't they demonstrate like normal people? Ironically, only once in a while do they actually show anything explaining the situation or the history of the Middle East. "DEATH TO" taught me nothing except to hate Palestine. All I hear is DEATH TO, DEATH TO, but no facts about the actual situation. If I see one brochure explaining the situation without the words "DEATH TO", it is an honour not often seen. Secondly, yes South Africa did plenty trade with Israel, especially military. That however is politics. It is not right, but it's the whole world. South Africa also sold plenty military to Iraq. The amount of countries that sold Military to both Iran and Iraq during their war is endless. Another point is that the main reason why Israel did so much trade with South Africa is because of the Arab boycott! It had nothing to do with supporting South Africa's policies. Ironically more of it was therefore caused by the Arab world! We could ofcourse also mention Black September when Jordan massacred thousands of Palestinians and the bigotry in Arab lands. It is however unethical to find fault there. The only time we find fault in Moslem lands is if it effects us eg some one invades our oil supplies, we outraged.
Dirk
South Africa - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 08:54:13 (PST)

You can respond -including your name, address and telephone number- to William Safire's disgusting and misleading article Jews want peace, but Arabs want to win by emailing and letters@nytimes.com and letters@sjmercury.com
George J. Wakileh
Bowling Green, KY USA - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 07:28:22 (PST)

How about the LA, Orange County and San Diego Clubs team up to do a Southern Cali Convention? If the NFL brings the Super Bowl to San Diego once every 4 years, why not the AFRP? They don't call San Diego "America's Finest City" for nothing...
socal arab
USA - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 20:30:18 (PST)

In loving memory of one of the most kind, funny, sweet, loving aunts anyone could ever wish for. You were our best friend and our very own Mother Teresa. To Aunt Suad Kaoud, you'll be in our hearts forever.
Kristy Nasser <Krysty97@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 15:57:03 (PST)

Dirk, unfortunately (judging from your Anglo-German name), you are a "white" South African. It is nothing new to hear anti-Arab and pro-Israeli rhetoric from a white South African. Prove me wrong by admitting that the illegal white-rule of South Africa is known worldwide as APARTHEID. The criminal Israelis are adopting even worse aprtheid measures against the native Palestinian people who actually own the land. The Israelis even gave your former white government 50 nuclear bombs to be used against neighboring black African countries who were fighting against white European colonialism and imperialism. The facts are pretty clear in my book, both the white south africans and the Jews are guilty of crimes against humanity as well as the illegal occupation of land which does not belong to them...just a few words from an educated Arab!
JS
Israeli Occupied, USA - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 08:23:28 (PST)

I have a comment to make to those who wish to equate Israel with South Africa. I suggest you do the following: Do a survey of South Africa's Moslem community. Do an independent non-biased investigation of their behaviour re: the Middle East. i.e. their demonstrations, the brochures they send out, their posters etc. Make sure your investigation is non-biased and ask as many people as you can who have been there to avoid bias. After your investigation, decide if the leaders of South Africa's Moslem community is helping you or not i.e. think "If I was a stranger watching this, or reading this, what would I think?" After that, you may decide differently about bringing South Africa into the picture.
Dirk
South Africa - Sunday, March 24, 2002 at 21:21:11 (PST)

I live in MD; my family and my two of my brothers' family. I attend a Greek Orthodox church in my neighborhood. I am a business owner and will be attending this year's convention as I did last year.
Isa Mufareh <AliBabaCutie@aol.com>
Baldwin, MD USA - Wednesday, March 20, 2002 at 19:08:26 (PST)

The convention was in San Francisco this past year. You guys aren't getting it again for another 5 years minimum! 2003??? are you kiddin me??? It's gonna be in Chicago, then D.C. and won't be back there for a while. Where have you been living....under a rock?
A Ramallahian too
Chi-town, USA - Wednesday, March 20, 2002 at 18:42:26 (PST)

The Ramallah convention will be held in Washington, DC in July, 2003. At this year's convention, they will vote on which city will host it in 2004.
JT
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, March 20, 2002 at 11:11:56 (PST)

How can Arafat give 100% effort cracking down on terrorism when he is under house arrest by those who are saying he doesn't do enough? Hypocrisy is rampant, and 9/11 didn't help the cause.
Jad Mashni <prodigit@mail.com>
Houston, TX USA - Tuesday, March 19, 2002 at 23:28:15 (PST)

PALESTINIAN LAND DAY MARCH 30, 2002 NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION IN SUPPORT OF PALESTINIAN RIGHTS END THE OCCUPATION, END THE VIOLENCE Please join us to demand that the Bush Administration be actively engaged in the full implementation of International Law and UN Resolutions calling for an end of the Israeli Occupation and self-determination for the Palestinian people. Demonstration and Rally @ Freedom Plaza - Washington, DC (13th Street and Pennsylvania Ave., NW) Saturday March, 30, 2002 from 1:00 - 4:00 PM For more information contact the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee: (202)244-2990 or e-mail: organizing@adc.org; www.adc.org A SIMILAR DEMONSTRATION IS PLANNED IN LOS ANGELES ON MARCH 30: In front of the Federal Building at Westwood, which is at Wilshire Blvd. and Veteran St., at 1 PM. For information about the Los Angeles rally, contact adcwest@adc.org or call (714) 636-1232 THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO UNITE & SUPPORT OUR HOME LAND! HOPEFULLY & SATURDAY AFTERNOON CAN BE SACRAFICED TO SHOW OUR TRUE PRIDE!!!
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Tuesday, March 19, 2002 at 17:40:45 (PST)

Does anyone know if the Convention will be held in San Francisco in 2003 or 2004? If it's not in S.F., where is it going to be held at?
A Ramallahian
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, March 19, 2002 at 10:08:55 (PST)

Ramallah and Palestine lost its Gentle Giant in loosing Hanna Ajlouny..A powerful voice for freedom was silenced..Rest in peace Abu Husam
Salameh Khoury
Florida, USA - Monday, March 18, 2002 at 21:20:52 (PST)

Can someone please tell me the link to the Chicago Convention this year? Thank you
C.L.N. <gjgaby212@aol.com>
Sa Francisco, Ca. USA - Sunday, March 17, 2002 at 19:23:49 (PST)

To the person from PA, I agree with you totally. I am originally from Ramallah, however I am appalled that our Ramallah people here in the US have not stepped up to help our courageous people back home who are suffering under an illegal occupation. I think that our organization should do a lot more political lobbying with the millions of dollars it receives each year (just as the Jews are doing). Just look at AIPAC and other Zionist organizations which actively lobby everyday for their illegal cause....what the heck are the Arab organizations here doing?
No Name Provided
Israeli Occupied, USA - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 08:53:22 (PST)

Hello Everyone! I wanted to send out this link I think everyone should see. Please view it when you all get a chance. Until then, take care everyone :) www.arabmail.de/Terror10.03-02.htm
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 08:20:49 (PST)

Few weeks ago our President George W. Bush was blasting the Palestinians and praising the Israelis for cracking down on terrorism. Yesterday he reverses his views. I have no rational explanation but to describe Bush and his administration as a hypocrites.
No Name Provided
USA - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 17:00:18 (PST)

Why does our organization exist?? Why don’t we mobilize ourselves for the greater cause of Palestinian? why do we sit like pathetic losers? Too lazy to make a difference? Don’t care enough? Unsure that it will even make a difference? Why are we silent while our Palestinian brothers & sisters are being murdered by the dozens everyday? STOP and THINK ask ourselves WHY? Where does the federation expect to be in 20 years? Why are we not doing anything? What is it going to take to get us to do something? And by then, will there be anything left to salvage?
No Name Provided
PA USA - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 13:32:15 (PST)

ITS ON A SATURDAY....OUR PEOPLE ARE DYING....RAMALLAH IS UNDERSEIGE...WE MUST TAKE A STAND AND LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD! CALL 202-244-2990 FOR DETAILS! ADC Update: National Demonstrations to "End the Occupation" Planned for March 30 ADC declares March 30, the Palestinian Land Day, to be a national day of solidarity with the Palestinian people, marked by two major demonstrations in Washington, DC and Los Angeles, CA. The escalating violence between Palestinians and Israelis is disastrous for both peoples. The occupation must end. We invite all people of good will to join with ADC and the Arab-American community in a day of support for the Palestinian people in their determination to end the Israeli occupation. Join us to call for an end to the occupation and the violence, and show your support for a just peace in the Middle East.
Concerned & Distressed <saveramallah.now>
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 12:30:55 (PST)

Good comments Declan. It would be good if your leader (Tony Blair) would wake up to this as well. Unfortunately he still remains as a slave for the Jewish Lobby and the illegal and artificial state of Israel. Anyway, keep up your good efforts because more British need to know the criminal history of the Jews as well as their own colonialist/imperialist Bristish history over the last several hundred years...
No Name Provided
Israeli Occupied, USA - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 08:24:51 (PST)

When we are taught in classrooms about the gloriuos American Revolution, we are not told that they too were terrorists attacking the British. Well if you want to go by the guidlines set by the jewish media, they were too terrorists. What's also funny is how the Israeli army continues to bomb our cities and kill innocent human beings, who have no organized army or advanced weapons to defend themselves. Which probably explains why suicide bombings have become so prevelant. When you got nothing to lose, there is no room for rational thinking. That's not to say that i agree with this specific tactic. I pray that all this misery and violence ends for the whole world's sake.
Abu Aboy
USA/ISRAEL - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 13:00:47 (PST)

I think our administration is going too far allowing the criminal Sharon to continue is criminal atrocities in Palestine. I hear it every day from people all around the world and in the US. Everyone is fed up with our continued support to Israel and the Jewish money working around the clock controlling our press and lobbying our congress and the senate. Despite all the ongoing events in Palestine, I am amazed that Cheney has the guts to go to the Arab world and lobby for a strike on Iraq. I hope each Arab leader sends him a message to stay home until the Palestinians get their freedom and land back. There is no priority in the world today more urgent that freeing the Palestinians and their land and eventually trying Sharon as Malosovich is being tried in court. They are both the same breed. God Bless Kofi Annan for his courageous speech today at the UN Security Council meeting and god bless America and help us get out of this trap.
No Name Provided
San Jose , CA USA - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 17:18:15 (PST)

Quote from today's headlines. "One of the United States' key Arab allies, Jordan's King Abdullah, warned Vice President Dick Cheney on Tuesday against attacking Iraq and urged him to focus instead on helping to end Israeli-Palestinian violence." I hope each Arab leader sends the same message. Washington has to get their priorities straight or else we as Americans will eventually suffer.
No Name Provided
San Jose, CA USA - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 17:12:39 (PST)

What is it that divides us as human beings? As far as I can see, it is almost always the things that make us the same. As an Irish Catholic brought up in England I have thought deeply about inter-community conflict, its roots, its effects and why the hell we all let the past destroy everyone's present and ruin all our children's futures. I very much pray that the Israeli Government will stop killing and oppressing Palestinians, that a Palestinian Free State will soon be established and that the world can at last take this opportunity to tell Israel where to get off treating other human beings like animals. In terms of Israel, for over fifty years America has gone around with its eyes closed and its cheque book open ( to the tune I believe of almost 100 billion dollars.) In the current climate I know that posting this will probably put me on some Mossad/CIA list - it would be better if America and its allies spent their energies and resources on bringing the real criminals to justice. Love and Peace.
Declan McGuill <declancopy@aol.com>
Sheffield, England - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 14:21:01 (PST)

Sorry I forgot to add the most important part....the URL! It is http://www.afrpchicago.org
Abeer
USA - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 13:39:32 (PST)

Hello Everyone! I know you all are anxiously awaiting for a list of the events planned for this year's annual convention to be held in Chicago. We are currently working on a website that posts all tentative events planned with other pertinent information including hotel information, car rentals, etc. The website is not yet complete, but it lists a majority of the events. Inshallah, this website will be beneficial. Feel free to email me with any questions or concerns :) Take care and the Chicago Community cannot wait to see you all this summer!
Abeer Zayed <shorty067@aol.com>
Oak Brook, IL USA - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 13:36:45 (PST)

I agree, us Palestinians should stick together, not fight with one another. I think this would help us alot more in the long run with regaining our land. All Arabs should stick together too, not just Palestinians, can you imagine how much stronger we'd be than the Yahood then? Long live Ramallah and long live Palestine!!!!!!
No name provided
San Jose, CA USA - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 11:18:23 (PST)

I cry! You cry! We cry....together. Can I be any more somber on a simple website?
No Name Provided
USA - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 06:50:23 (PST)

Will Peace Ever Prevail? Will the Bloodshed end? I am sick to my stomach of all the innocent lives being lost. I am a proud Palestinian-American. Why is this happening to my people? I cry. Palestinians need to stick together. Not be separated by land, wealth, and greed. This is why our land is not ours. While Muslim fundamentalists continue their rage towards Israel, they hit us with their bombs and tanks. Where do I come in to say STOP? the media bombs away at the Arabs left and right and i listen in horror. i say its "ok, these people dont know what theyre talking about" and then i say "whats the use, no one wants to give us a chance." I pray for peace, I pray that Palestinian and Israeli souls be saved. I had to write this to get it off my chest. PEACE STARTS WITH US. thank you
No Name Provided- Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 19:35:29 (PST

my prayers for the palestian people who are persecuted and torn from their homeland. Would be delightful if the USA would open there eyes to the REAL world and see how well israel manipulates us all!
mitzi
sacramento, ca USA - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 11:43:30 (PST)

I am a Jewish girl. I am more involved in reading and learning about your site than my Palestinian friends and boyfriend. You can't judge a person by who they are or say they are. You judge them by what they do. There is much misunderstanding between our peoples. It won't be solved by hate.
Jewish girl >
USA - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 11:22:15 (PST)

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