"Acrimonious debates and disputes over Islam-particularly the most visible manifestations like women wearing head scarves, veils, and burqas and the construction of mosques-continue apace. But researchers have not seen a correlation between economic woes and Islamophobia"
To The Editor:
I find it interesting that this statement is made, but then followed by a quote stating that the economic crisis has hit the immigrant population, many whom are Muslims, due to them being dependent on the welfare benefits.
Has it occurred to anyone that a population that is not free to practice their religious traditions publicly, would not feel excepted in the workforce?
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover
RE: Canada Bill in Quebec Would Ban Veils in Dealings with Officials (3/25/10)
To the Editor:
In this short article Ian Austen writes that Quebec has proposed a law that does not allow women to cover their faces when seeking government services. The article also states that this law is being passed to increase equality between men and women; however, I disagree. I chose this article in part because during my Soliya break out session this week we discussed the hijab and what it means. Many Muslim women do not see it as a sign of inequality, but rather, as an equalizing force in their lives. It is far more than a sign of modesty. My group discussed that the modesty of the hijab allows women to be know for their personality rather than their looks. I am not denying that in some instances it can imprison women, but Quebec should take a serious look at whether their women citizens truly need, or want, to be “liberated.”
Picnics and Celebrations are Deadly
Re: "Bombs Kill 13 Afghans; Elderly Man Dies in Raid" March 22, 2010
To the Editor:
I know that it is probably the height of naivete to wonder what this world has come to when people celebrating a holiday are killed in a bombing. I find it difficult to understand why thirteen people were killed in Afghanistan during a Norwuz celebration. I also wonder why the news of these deaths was paired in a story of an elderly man killed in a raid. These two topics had little in common other than both happened in Afghanistan and resulted in the deaths of innocent people. Both of these events are tragedies. Don't they qualify as their own news story? It seems more than sad that these events were shoved together in a story smashed into the margin. Surely we've become to comfortable with the deaths of people in the Middle East if the news of picnickers and elderly people being killed no longer warrants the front page. It is truly a sad commentary on today's world.
To the Editor:
I know that it is probably the height of naivete to wonder what this world has come to when people celebrating a holiday are killed in a bombing. I find it difficult to understand why thirteen people were killed in Afghanistan during a Norwuz celebration. I also wonder why the news of these deaths was paired in a story of an elderly man killed in a raid. These two topics had little in common other than both happened in Afghanistan and resulted in the deaths of innocent people. Both of these events are tragedies. Don't they qualify as their own news story? It seems more than sad that these events were shoved together in a story smashed into the margin. Surely we've become to comfortable with the deaths of people in the Middle East if the news of picnickers and elderly people being killed no longer warrants the front page. It is truly a sad commentary on today's world.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Bereavement has no sides
Re: “Netanyahu And Obama Will Talk on Tuesday” (March 22, 2010)
To the Editor:
No grandmother should lose their grandson in a battle because, ultimately death has no sides when it comes to the pain it delivers. Bereavement on all sides, no matter if we see the persons as good or bad, is debilitating. The picture above, from the New York Times, shows Noura Qawariq holding her deceased grandson. Her eyes show the pain that she feels. We see a picture, seeing her face, without feeling her pain in our inner core. Think of your most possessed memory. Now, imagine someone has taken that memory from you. Qawariq's heart dropped, too. In this case, not only was Qawariq’s memory making stopped, but all future hopes were stolen. This is an emotional idea to consider. The reasons for her grandson’s death are not necessarily the fault of the Israelis, the Palestinians, or the United States, when looking at the whole picture. It is that humankind has missed the point of the holy land. It is not the land itself that is important, it is the fact that anyone should be able to grow in their fath. This is what is important about Jerusalem. Land is just land. It is not fragile because it cannot die. Humans can die. Hearts can break, but it is only faith and love that make such heartaches worthy. Isabel Keshner’s article expresses that Israel and Palestine are considering peace talks. However, they are not considering peace until everyone agrees that war in Israel/ Palestine will be over. Peace will only be granted when both sides can embrace each other's differences. Until then, it’s just another push on the timer in a worldwide, violent game of chess.
Some Differences Are Just Hard To Understand
Re: Yemen: Ban on Child Bride Is Imperiled
Tuesday March 23, 2010
To the editor:
In 2009 a law was passed in Yemen making "child brides" illegal. This meant that marriage would be illegal for anyone under the age of 17. Currently, many influential Muslim leaders are calling this law un-Islamic. They are referring to the supporters of this law as runways from the Islamic religion. This claim of the law being un-Islamic is strongly endangering the law from being passed. However; this raises the question as to whether marrying a child is considered acceptable and a part of religion. Is it really un-Islamic to ban child brides? It is difficult to understand the cultural difference in this situation. This is one area that is completely opposite of American or Western thought in general. It would be considered completely illegal and morally wrong to marry anyone under the age of 18 in the U.S. so, grasping this idea that child marriage is acceptable or encouraged in some cultures is hard. This is just another example as to how much different their society is. Of course, what's wrong to us is not necessarily going to be wrong to others and it is important to respect the different ideologies, but I think even the most open-minded person might be concerned as to why child marriage is not illegal.
Tuesday March 23, 2010
To the editor:
In 2009 a law was passed in Yemen making "child brides" illegal. This meant that marriage would be illegal for anyone under the age of 17. Currently, many influential Muslim leaders are calling this law un-Islamic. They are referring to the supporters of this law as runways from the Islamic religion. This claim of the law being un-Islamic is strongly endangering the law from being passed. However; this raises the question as to whether marrying a child is considered acceptable and a part of religion. Is it really un-Islamic to ban child brides? It is difficult to understand the cultural difference in this situation. This is one area that is completely opposite of American or Western thought in general. It would be considered completely illegal and morally wrong to marry anyone under the age of 18 in the U.S. so, grasping this idea that child marriage is acceptable or encouraged in some cultures is hard. This is just another example as to how much different their society is. Of course, what's wrong to us is not necessarily going to be wrong to others and it is important to respect the different ideologies, but I think even the most open-minded person might be concerned as to why child marriage is not illegal.
Unlikely Allies
RE: China and Russia Pressed Ian to Accept U.N. Deal (24 March 2010)
To the Editor,
For many years throughout history, Russia and China have worked cooperatively together to achieve their political agendas. The article discussed how both countries are working together to pressure Iran to accept nuclear sanctions. Both countries were open to promoting peace in the Middle East, however both were also vague in what they hoped to achieve through these tactics. Like the article stated, both may feel the pressure of the U.N. sanctions committee. I think that this is only part of these actions. I also think that Russia and China are trying to renew their status amongst the world powers. In recent past, they have been the perpetrators of antagonism for the U.S. and other countries; Russia and the rest of the Soviet Union during the Cold War and China in association with North Korea. I believe that both countries are trying to take the spotlight away from themselves and shine it on the issues surrounding Iran. In doing this, Russian and China are trying to peacefully transition into becoming a "good" part of the political realm. Or, in other words, on friendly and beneficial terms with the U.S.
Kellye Tamura
25 March 2010
Greeley, Colo.
To the Editor,
For many years throughout history, Russia and China have worked cooperatively together to achieve their political agendas. The article discussed how both countries are working together to pressure Iran to accept nuclear sanctions. Both countries were open to promoting peace in the Middle East, however both were also vague in what they hoped to achieve through these tactics. Like the article stated, both may feel the pressure of the U.N. sanctions committee. I think that this is only part of these actions. I also think that Russia and China are trying to renew their status amongst the world powers. In recent past, they have been the perpetrators of antagonism for the U.S. and other countries; Russia and the rest of the Soviet Union during the Cold War and China in association with North Korea. I believe that both countries are trying to take the spotlight away from themselves and shine it on the issues surrounding Iran. In doing this, Russian and China are trying to peacefully transition into becoming a "good" part of the political realm. Or, in other words, on friendly and beneficial terms with the U.S.
Kellye Tamura
25 March 2010
Greeley, Colo.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The US just can't seem to please everyone
RE: Clinton Meets Netanyahu Amid Effort to Resolve Quarrel
Concerning the construction issue going on between Israel and Palestine, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has basically given the Israelis a gentle slap on the wrist for their unacceptable behavior.
The Israelis are continuing to build on soil which is jointly claimed by Palestine and Israel, which is actually considered illegal according to the International Law. The United States' response has stated that they do not support this building, yet still hold very close ties with Israel, and consider them a close ally. By simply stating that this is wrong, Israel will not, and does not, plan to go off course of the building plan. The United States must either stay out of the situation completely, since there is not much we can do about it anyways, or threaten Israel with something that will actually effect their relations.
Concerning the construction issue going on between Israel and Palestine, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has basically given the Israelis a gentle slap on the wrist for their unacceptable behavior.
The Israelis are continuing to build on soil which is jointly claimed by Palestine and Israel, which is actually considered illegal according to the International Law. The United States' response has stated that they do not support this building, yet still hold very close ties with Israel, and consider them a close ally. By simply stating that this is wrong, Israel will not, and does not, plan to go off course of the building plan. The United States must either stay out of the situation completely, since there is not much we can do about it anyways, or threaten Israel with something that will actually effect their relations.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Psychopath or Patriot
Re: “Palestinians Honor a Figure Reviled in Israel as a Terrorist” (news article March 12 ):
To the Editor:
A woman in 1978 aided in the killing of 38 Israeli civilians and Palestinian students wish to see her memory honored by naming a square for her and erecting a statue of her. No matter which way I look at this the woman, Dalal Mughrabi is a murderess and guilty of the lives of 38 people. Not a figure worthy of admiration or honor and those who think she is are, to a degree, complicit in the violence. It doesn’t matter what side she was on, or who she killed for, she killed people with an act of terror and the students wishing a public declaration of her “heroics” are inciting conflict and inviting further friction. It is an unwise and provocative invitation for a new generation swaddled in explosives. I had to compare her actions on that day in 1978 to American actions in this war and the difference I have realized is this: it is a matter of intent. We target militants who hide behind innocents, because we are hesitant to kill civilians. Mughrabi went out of her way to kill non-combatants and emotionally wounded dozens of family members. That is not to say that the Israelites are not also guilty of bloodshed but a battle of vendettas will only end once everyone is dead.
Estelle S.
Denver, March 12, 2010
To the Editor:
A woman in 1978 aided in the killing of 38 Israeli civilians and Palestinian students wish to see her memory honored by naming a square for her and erecting a statue of her. No matter which way I look at this the woman, Dalal Mughrabi is a murderess and guilty of the lives of 38 people. Not a figure worthy of admiration or honor and those who think she is are, to a degree, complicit in the violence. It doesn’t matter what side she was on, or who she killed for, she killed people with an act of terror and the students wishing a public declaration of her “heroics” are inciting conflict and inviting further friction. It is an unwise and provocative invitation for a new generation swaddled in explosives. I had to compare her actions on that day in 1978 to American actions in this war and the difference I have realized is this: it is a matter of intent. We target militants who hide behind innocents, because we are hesitant to kill civilians. Mughrabi went out of her way to kill non-combatants and emotionally wounded dozens of family members. That is not to say that the Israelites are not also guilty of bloodshed but a battle of vendettas will only end once everyone is dead.
Estelle S.
Denver, March 12, 2010
Israeljerusalemstine: Palestine, Israel, and Jerusalem as three separate countries
Re: “Palestinians Hold to Plan for New Talks” (March 11, 2010)
Ethan Bronner describes the basic pushes and pulls of the Israeli-Palestinian relationship. The classic example being that the Israelis want to build houses in a place that the Palestinians want for their capital, East Jerusalem. However, these are both states whose major religions focus on doing God’s work. Many Muslims believe that anyone who believes in God should be respected while many Jews believe that love is a part of God’s work. However, both groups focus so much on Jerusalem, the holy land, that they lose sight of the humans that are Jews and Muslims. Israel should be divided into two states, with everything north of Israel being one state and everything south being another state. Than the Palestinians and the Israelis each have their own land. Palestinians and Israelis need to agree in making Jerusalem its own city-nation, like the Vatican. Elections can take place, and either religion may not be a factor in politics or religions can play a role like political parties. Then neither the Israelis nor the Palestinians own Jerusalem. This also means that Jerusalem will be more accessible to all people around the world. Bronner hints that the Palestinians want peace and it seems like the Israelis are willing, but neither side is enthusiastic to being flexible enough to allow peace to prosper.
Conversion equals freedom, but who is the next Captive?
RE: Al-Qaida: Freed Spanish Hostage Converted to Islam (March 12th 2010)
To the Editor:
This article published in the NY times writes about a recent Spanish woman who was held captive by Al-Qaida forces, and then released once she converted to Islam. The Al-Qaidia members claim that they released her for medical problems but refused to go into specifics and released pictures of her wearing a head scarf with Al-Qaida members with guns behind her. The woman was with a group of people in North Africa trying to bring resources to villages in need when captured. The article also discusses how this has not been the first capture and will not be the last as recent kidnappings have escalated. This article reminded me of the discussions in our Soliya sessions where many felt in the Middle East their main goal was to teach people about their country and set them straight on their beliefs. I don't think they would have gone to lengths like kidnapping, but demonstrates a more radical view of this mission in bringing the truth of Islam to people around the globe.
To the Editor:
This article published in the NY times writes about a recent Spanish woman who was held captive by Al-Qaida forces, and then released once she converted to Islam. The Al-Qaidia members claim that they released her for medical problems but refused to go into specifics and released pictures of her wearing a head scarf with Al-Qaida members with guns behind her. The woman was with a group of people in North Africa trying to bring resources to villages in need when captured. The article also discusses how this has not been the first capture and will not be the last as recent kidnappings have escalated. This article reminded me of the discussions in our Soliya sessions where many felt in the Middle East their main goal was to teach people about their country and set them straight on their beliefs. I don't think they would have gone to lengths like kidnapping, but demonstrates a more radical view of this mission in bringing the truth of Islam to people around the globe.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
RE: Palestinians Honor a Figure Reviled In Isreal as a Terrorist (12 March)
To the Editor:
This article brought to light a very interesting topic that further illustrates the animosities between Israel and Palestine. The 32nd anniversary of the largest Israeli killing led by Dalal Mughrabi had come and people on both sides were curious to see what would happen. To the Israelis, it is a black mark on their history, but to the Palestinians it was a successful mark in their fight against oppression. I think that this demonstrates the lack of compassion on either side for the circumstances of the situation. Neither side is able to see what the other has had to endure. Thus, peace talks have not been successful. The national ties both groups possess are very strong and thus blind them to parts of the larger picture. I suppose it is fair to say that there are attempts to quell the violence that has existed for centuries between these two groups, but it must be the people, not politicians, who ultimately decide that present peace is more important than historical memory.
Kellye Tamura
12 March 2010
Greeley, Colo.
To the Editor:
This article brought to light a very interesting topic that further illustrates the animosities between Israel and Palestine. The 32nd anniversary of the largest Israeli killing led by Dalal Mughrabi had come and people on both sides were curious to see what would happen. To the Israelis, it is a black mark on their history, but to the Palestinians it was a successful mark in their fight against oppression. I think that this demonstrates the lack of compassion on either side for the circumstances of the situation. Neither side is able to see what the other has had to endure. Thus, peace talks have not been successful. The national ties both groups possess are very strong and thus blind them to parts of the larger picture. I suppose it is fair to say that there are attempts to quell the violence that has existed for centuries between these two groups, but it must be the people, not politicians, who ultimately decide that present peace is more important than historical memory.
Kellye Tamura
12 March 2010
Greeley, Colo.
Finding a Voice
Re: Region Unimpressed by Balloting in Iraq (3/8/10)
To the Editor:
In America, free elections always seem to be signs of free democracy; however, as Michael Slackman’s article illustrates, very few people in the Middle East view Iraq’s most recent elections as “free.” Even those that were willing to concede that it might be a small step for Iraq are adamant that there is much more that needs to be done. For starters, they insist that occupation by the United States and pressures from Iran reduce the “freedom” involved in the election. While the perspective of various individuals from Jordan and Egypt were interesting to read, I’m much more interested in how the Iraqi’s feel about their election. Clearly, they value their right to vote, despite threats of violence many citizens came out to vote. But how do they feel about American occupation, Iranian pressure, and sectarian violence? These are the voices that need to be heard in more places than the ballot box.
To the Editor:
In America, free elections always seem to be signs of free democracy; however, as Michael Slackman’s article illustrates, very few people in the Middle East view Iraq’s most recent elections as “free.” Even those that were willing to concede that it might be a small step for Iraq are adamant that there is much more that needs to be done. For starters, they insist that occupation by the United States and pressures from Iran reduce the “freedom” involved in the election. While the perspective of various individuals from Jordan and Egypt were interesting to read, I’m much more interested in how the Iraqi’s feel about their election. Clearly, they value their right to vote, despite threats of violence many citizens came out to vote. But how do they feel about American occupation, Iranian pressure, and sectarian violence? These are the voices that need to be heard in more places than the ballot box.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
On the brink of....Something
RE: An Eviction Stirs Old Ghosts in a Contested City
To the Editor,
This article opens up a lot of questions, but the main one seems to be what is going to happen to Israel because of this? For years the relationship between Israel and Palestine has been anything but friendly. It seems like before there was a chance, no matter how slim, of Israel and Palestine coming to some sort of peaceful end. Now, because of the continued displacement of Palestinian families from their homes, I feel like peace is out of the question, and as one Israeli man put it at the end of the article “It cannot go one way in Jerusalem,” so the question remains as now what is going to happen? Also, how many people will this affect and in what way? The world waits with bated breath for what is going to happen next in Jerusalem.
To the Editor,
This article opens up a lot of questions, but the main one seems to be what is going to happen to Israel because of this? For years the relationship between Israel and Palestine has been anything but friendly. It seems like before there was a chance, no matter how slim, of Israel and Palestine coming to some sort of peaceful end. Now, because of the continued displacement of Palestinian families from their homes, I feel like peace is out of the question, and as one Israeli man put it at the end of the article “It cannot go one way in Jerusalem,” so the question remains as now what is going to happen? Also, how many people will this affect and in what way? The world waits with bated breath for what is going to happen next in Jerusalem.
Iraq: Lacking Democracy for Years to Come
RE: Region Unimpressed By Balloting in Iraq (3/9/10)
To the editor:
On Sunday, Iraqi's rushed to elect new parliament and to take part in their new democracy. However, can we really call this a democracy? Yes, they now have voting, but it's questionable whether or not their votes even count. It's sometimes seems as though they are simply voting to fix their image rather than correcting any political wrong doing. They now call themselves a democracy, but that is just something being said. Other than being able to vote, their is really nothing democratic about Iraq. They do not have freedom of speech because their media networks are restricted and violence stills erupts every day over religious choice. The author of the article expresses concern for Iraq becoming the next Iran; referencing a future political uproar like that in Iran. Their votes really seem to mean nothing. Iraq still has a very long ways to go on it's road to democracy.
To the editor:
On Sunday, Iraqi's rushed to elect new parliament and to take part in their new democracy. However, can we really call this a democracy? Yes, they now have voting, but it's questionable whether or not their votes even count. It's sometimes seems as though they are simply voting to fix their image rather than correcting any political wrong doing. They now call themselves a democracy, but that is just something being said. Other than being able to vote, their is really nothing democratic about Iraq. They do not have freedom of speech because their media networks are restricted and violence stills erupts every day over religious choice. The author of the article expresses concern for Iraq becoming the next Iran; referencing a future political uproar like that in Iran. Their votes really seem to mean nothing. Iraq still has a very long ways to go on it's road to democracy.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Indifference to Democracy
RE: Viewing the Iraqi Elections Across the Middle East
By: Nadia Taha
To the Editor
This week, I read this article by Nadia Taha and also watched the video, Iraq Elections, Voting for the Future, by Stephen Farrell and Anthony Shadid, regarding the recent elections in Iraq. I think the most interesting part of the article was not that the people of Iraq are willingly partaking in democracy, but that there is a general air of apathy about the new governmental system being instituted in the country. "Were Arab leaders and voters disappointed, angered, or inspired by what appears to have been a successful vote in Iraq? The answer appears to be none of the above," says Nadia Taha. It seems that the topic of debate surrounding the election is not that there is a new system of government, but how other countries will react, namely the United States. Americans appear to be so set on the fact that democracy is the best form of government because it allows everyone a voice, but if no one cares about that, how will that change the face of democracy? I am interested to see how this new democracy will work in Iraq. I have a feeling it will change drastically over a small amount of time with the lack of relative involvement to the involvement of our American democracy.
Lame to walk, blind to see, torturers to be set free?
Re: Iran: Trial in Torture Deaths Begins
Associated Press
March 9, 2010
To the Editor:
I found this extremely short article in your paper both interesting and disgusting. The mere idea of being tortured to death makes my stomach churn, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels this way. I could not imagine a worse way to die. I could also not imagine a worse existence for the families of those three who were tortured to death. According to Iran's judiciary, "there is no effort to punish [them]", so these families get to live their lives imagining and picturing the gruesome deaths of their beloved all without any redemption. Personally, if I were tortured to death for my beliefs, then I must be doing my job. However, if I knew that my son was being tortured for his beliefs, it would torture me as well. These reports are still new, and who knows if the Iranian judiciary will changes its mind, but for now, I am sickened that these men are getting away with these horrendous acts of brutality and malice.
Associated Press
March 9, 2010
To the Editor:
I found this extremely short article in your paper both interesting and disgusting. The mere idea of being tortured to death makes my stomach churn, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels this way. I could not imagine a worse way to die. I could also not imagine a worse existence for the families of those three who were tortured to death. According to Iran's judiciary, "there is no effort to punish [them]", so these families get to live their lives imagining and picturing the gruesome deaths of their beloved all without any redemption. Personally, if I were tortured to death for my beliefs, then I must be doing my job. However, if I knew that my son was being tortured for his beliefs, it would torture me as well. These reports are still new, and who knows if the Iranian judiciary will changes its mind, but for now, I am sickened that these men are getting away with these horrendous acts of brutality and malice.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Where is there a Safe Place?
"Bicycle Rigged as Bomb Kills 7 In Afghan Provincial Capital" is an article that was written for the New York Times on Wednesday the 3rd. What looked like a bicycle in a bazaar, turned out to be a bomb that killed seven and wounded fourteen in Lashkar Gah, Afghanistan. Many of the civilians told the press that they were in the city because they had fled their homes in Majra, because of the fighting taking place there. The Taliban eve advised the evacuation of Majra about a week ago. The local people don't even know why there if fighting, and why there are bombs going off; they believe that whoever is fighting should be doing it amongst themselves. I completely agree with this. Are the sole purpose of the many I.E.D.s to kill civilians, and why? It makes me so sad to think that people can't even attend a bazaar without fear of being blown up. Why does this mess have to involve the civilians, who want no part of it?
The Road to Autonomy
RE: After Push in Marja Largely Won, Marines Try to Win Trust (3/1/10)
To the Editor:
In his article, C.J. Shivers writes that, while the United States Army has taken the city of Marja from the Taliban, gaining the trust of its Afghani citizens may be their hardest battle yet. Clearly, the citizens of Afghanistan have endured a turbulent history: occupation by the Soviet Union, followed by the ruthless Taliban, and now they are at the mercy of the United States Army. The hostility of Afghani people seems justified, given their repeated subjugation by foreign and domestic conquerors alike. Certainly, the U.S. Army’s attempts at beneficence, including treating Afghani citizenry with increased respect and providing restitution for property damage, much remains to be done to restore their dignity and trust. The military’s admirable efforts to date are a step in the right direction to restoring trust of the Afghani citizenry.
To the Editor:
In his article, C.J. Shivers writes that, while the United States Army has taken the city of Marja from the Taliban, gaining the trust of its Afghani citizens may be their hardest battle yet. Clearly, the citizens of Afghanistan have endured a turbulent history: occupation by the Soviet Union, followed by the ruthless Taliban, and now they are at the mercy of the United States Army. The hostility of Afghani people seems justified, given their repeated subjugation by foreign and domestic conquerors alike. Certainly, the U.S. Army’s attempts at beneficence, including treating Afghani citizenry with increased respect and providing restitution for property damage, much remains to be done to restore their dignity and trust. The military’s admirable efforts to date are a step in the right direction to restoring trust of the Afghani citizenry.
An Inconsistent Constant
Re: In Marja, a Vice President Speaks With Warmth, but Reaps Cool (Tuesday, March 2, 2010)
To the Editor:
To the Editor:
War: It is the institution that leads to confusion for most people. Leaders speak peacefully about violence. Countries pull together to break countries apart. Alissa J. Rubin demonstrates the idea of negations in the time of conflict as she speaks about the logistics during Afghani Vice President Karim Khaili’s visit to Marja in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province. First of all, Khalili is speaking in a language, Dari, which most in his audience cannot understand. It is a language of the Hazra when most of Khalili’s audience is Pushtun. Without an interpreter, as the article describes, the message is sent to the soldiers and not to the average Afghani citizen. This may be a strategy on Khalili’s part, but a poor decision. Consistency comes in communication and when few are hearing the message there is no reliability. However, there is always some consistency in a goulash-like situation. In the Afghani war it is the Taliban, which seems to be the root of all the Afghani problems. Vice President Khalili’s people, the Hazra, are being persecuted by the Taliban. The Taliban are Pushtuns, the very people to who the vice president is speaking. However, not all Pushtuns are Taliban; even this constant intermingles into the irregularity of the conflict. In Michael Muhammad Knight's Journey to the End of Islam, such an idea is described. He demonstrates how a peaceful group pushes and prods to get to the peaceful and holy Ka'ba. It is possible that this inconsistency is human nature, an ambition to fulfill one's life-long desires. Possibly, Khalili is trying to bring peace with overexerted ambition.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
You can never control who uses it for what...
RE: Taliban: Bomb the Ban by Alissa J. Rubin
To the Editor,
Following our discussion about media in both the United States and Islamic countries, as well as the viewing of the journalist documentary, this article points out a couple of things that were not brought up. While we talk frequently about media being misused as a platform for biased groups to voice their opinion to the masses, we overlook the idea that these same groups pull as much information from the media as they seek to put out. The Taliban defense of the freedom of speech comes as a shock to many as it was quite oxymoronic, as they were speaking out "in support of a free press, human rights and, yes, civil society." The Afghani government's desire to no longer broadcast militant attacks calls into question if there is something they are trying to hide...but perhaps what they were trying to avoid in the first place is just what is happening now: The Taliban wants the information that has been made public for all. Both groups realized this at the same time. The government wants to protect the information while the Taliban seeks to exploit it. So the question is: is the point of freedom of speech so that everyone (and I mean everyone) can have access to what is happening or is the point of a government to limit what is said in order to protect its people? It seems both America's greatest priveleges and debates are reaching the other side of the globe!
To the Editor,
Following our discussion about media in both the United States and Islamic countries, as well as the viewing of the journalist documentary, this article points out a couple of things that were not brought up. While we talk frequently about media being misused as a platform for biased groups to voice their opinion to the masses, we overlook the idea that these same groups pull as much information from the media as they seek to put out. The Taliban defense of the freedom of speech comes as a shock to many as it was quite oxymoronic, as they were speaking out "in support of a free press, human rights and, yes, civil society." The Afghani government's desire to no longer broadcast militant attacks calls into question if there is something they are trying to hide...but perhaps what they were trying to avoid in the first place is just what is happening now: The Taliban wants the information that has been made public for all. Both groups realized this at the same time. The government wants to protect the information while the Taliban seeks to exploit it. So the question is: is the point of freedom of speech so that everyone (and I mean everyone) can have access to what is happening or is the point of a government to limit what is said in order to protect its people? It seems both America's greatest priveleges and debates are reaching the other side of the globe!
Everyday Issues Never Thought of Within the U.S.
RE: Israeli Police Clash With Stone Throwers (March 1, 2010)
To the editor:
This article displays yet another conflict between Jews and Palestinians regarding a mosque called Al Aksa. Palestinian youths had locked themselves inside the mosque and were throwing stones at the Jewish tourists because there were rumors that the Jews were going to take it over during the Purim holiday. Israeli soldiers entered the area and several people were injured because of the stone throwing. Everyone knows that the Jews and Palestinians don't like each other as a whole, however this article gave an example of the everyday conflict going on. The situation wasn't very violent, but still describes the nuisance of the conflicts. Rarely do I think of situations like this. Most of the time, violent images of explosions come to mind (probably because of the media's influence) and sometimes we fail to realize the struggles like this that effects their life. Here in America, we would never have to worry about getting pelted with rocks when going to a museum or theatre, but there it's a real worry. Also, it makes me think of such an old world type of atmosphere. When we think of throwing stones, biblical time images come to mind. Once again, here in America, it just seems so outdated and old world that we could never imagine having to deal with these difficulties.
To the editor:
This article displays yet another conflict between Jews and Palestinians regarding a mosque called Al Aksa. Palestinian youths had locked themselves inside the mosque and were throwing stones at the Jewish tourists because there were rumors that the Jews were going to take it over during the Purim holiday. Israeli soldiers entered the area and several people were injured because of the stone throwing. Everyone knows that the Jews and Palestinians don't like each other as a whole, however this article gave an example of the everyday conflict going on. The situation wasn't very violent, but still describes the nuisance of the conflicts. Rarely do I think of situations like this. Most of the time, violent images of explosions come to mind (probably because of the media's influence) and sometimes we fail to realize the struggles like this that effects their life. Here in America, we would never have to worry about getting pelted with rocks when going to a museum or theatre, but there it's a real worry. Also, it makes me think of such an old world type of atmosphere. When we think of throwing stones, biblical time images come to mind. Once again, here in America, it just seems so outdated and old world that we could never imagine having to deal with these difficulties.
Resolution between Shiite and Sunni?
RE: Murky Candidacy Stokes Iraq's Sectarian Fears (March 3, 2010)
To the Editor:
To most Americans it's safe to say that the allegations against Hakim al-Zamili sound heinous and extreme. His actions and involvement in groups of conflict has resulted in death and further divisions and scars amongst the factions of Islam. According to the article many people feel that "Mr. Zamili’s new political role has heightened concerns that for all the talk of cross-sectarian alliances among some Shiite and Sunni factions, Iraq may be unable to firmly break with its troubled past". Realistically this is accurate, however this sometimes violent clash of beliefs between these two sects of Islam has been going on since nearly the conception of Islam, or at least upon the passing of the Prophet Muhammad. It is unrealistic to say that the election of this one man is going to stop the whole process. A process that some would say is unlikely to occur in our lifetime, a belief that is likely considering the centuries for which this clash has already existed without resolution. While the election of this official is to my thinking, obviously concerning due to his past history and recorded support in questionable events resulting in the death of civilians, It is unreasonable to say that his election is the only thing preventing the Shiite and Sunni factions from peacefully burying the hatchet.
Determination of a People
RE: Deadly Attacks Mar Early Voting in Iraqi Elections (March 4, 2010)
To the Editor:
No-one is going to dispute the claim that the attacks at the polling stations, and on voters puts a stain on the recent elections whose hope was to create a democracy in Iraq. However, something that shows an opportunity for a little bit of hope is being overlooked. The elections were predicted to be violent. According to the article there were "fliers and CDs scattered in the streets [threatening] to kill anyone who voted". This threat of increased and specific violence did not stop people from going out and attempting to vote for the country's democracy. Of course the transition between forms of government would be rough. There has been enough evidence of this in the past months, that's old news. What is important is that the Iraqi citizens feel that “This is an attack on our freedom to vote", which despite the fact that they feel this freedom is threatened, indicates that the Iraqi people believe this is a freedom they should have the right to. Which is at least a step in the right direction.
Double Standard 101
RE: Iranian Authorities Close 2 Opposition Publications (March 2, 2010)
To the Editor:
I originally started reading this article because I was intrigued by the censorship happening in Iran, however looking deeper into the article I found something very troubling. At the end of the article the author mentioned at least 280 workers that have not received payment for months due to “unpaid government debts and a tightening of bank credit”. Then the article went on to mention the 2,000-pound bombs that the Iranian Air-Force was building, testing and refining at the same time. My question now is how the Iranian government can afford these million dollar bombs when it can’t afford to pay its workers? My next question is how long does the government expect to remain in power, considering the recent riots over wages, without paying its workers? I feel like this apparent double standard should be investigated more closely in the future.
To the Editor:
I originally started reading this article because I was intrigued by the censorship happening in Iran, however looking deeper into the article I found something very troubling. At the end of the article the author mentioned at least 280 workers that have not received payment for months due to “unpaid government debts and a tightening of bank credit”. Then the article went on to mention the 2,000-pound bombs that the Iranian Air-Force was building, testing and refining at the same time. My question now is how the Iranian government can afford these million dollar bombs when it can’t afford to pay its workers? My next question is how long does the government expect to remain in power, considering the recent riots over wages, without paying its workers? I feel like this apparent double standard should be investigated more closely in the future.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Question: Is All Fair in Love and War?
RE: Indicted Ex-Leader of Bosnian Serbs Calls Atrocities 'Myths' (3 March 2010)
To the Editor:
Some would say that it is a characteristic of men to face up to their actions with dignity. Apparently, Radovan Karadzic does not measure up to this. The article discussed his defense base during his trial in The Hague, Netherlands this week. Whilst I can see that he is trying to save himself from a severe sentence, I think it is more that he cannot own up to the consequences of his actions. He claimed that the events at Srebrenica were nothing but natural events for the war. I find this slightly insulting to all the work of forensic anthropologists who have worked to prove what occurred during the war years (1992 -1995). The war has been blamed on religious differences between the Christian and Muslim factions of the country. However, I think that it is more of an ethnic rift that has caused the conflicts. Bosnia is a multi-nation state, meaning that there are many different ethnic identities that have a say in the government. The shattering of Yugoslavia into its present states was supposed to fix this. And it has failed. There are still so many tensions within the area. The term "balkanization" derived from the area and describes situations that are shattered so many times from different factors that the results actually prove more detrimental (hence the war). But for Karadzic to deny his actions in the war, all I have to say is, "Sic Semper Tyrannis".
Kellye Tamura
Greeley, Colo. 3 March 2010
To the Editor:
Some would say that it is a characteristic of men to face up to their actions with dignity. Apparently, Radovan Karadzic does not measure up to this. The article discussed his defense base during his trial in The Hague, Netherlands this week. Whilst I can see that he is trying to save himself from a severe sentence, I think it is more that he cannot own up to the consequences of his actions. He claimed that the events at Srebrenica were nothing but natural events for the war. I find this slightly insulting to all the work of forensic anthropologists who have worked to prove what occurred during the war years (1992 -1995). The war has been blamed on religious differences between the Christian and Muslim factions of the country. However, I think that it is more of an ethnic rift that has caused the conflicts. Bosnia is a multi-nation state, meaning that there are many different ethnic identities that have a say in the government. The shattering of Yugoslavia into its present states was supposed to fix this. And it has failed. There are still so many tensions within the area. The term "balkanization" derived from the area and describes situations that are shattered so many times from different factors that the results actually prove more detrimental (hence the war). But for Karadzic to deny his actions in the war, all I have to say is, "Sic Semper Tyrannis".
Kellye Tamura
Greeley, Colo. 3 March 2010
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