Houstonian Corner (V11-I25)

Dr. Abdul Raheman Nakadar & Dr. Aslam Abdullah in Houston

Publisher and Editor in Chief of Muslim Observer Newspaper Dr. Abdul Raheman Nakadar & Dr. Asalam Abdullah came to Houston last weekend and did two Seminars: One on “Building Community Media Institutions” under the organization of Muslim Observer local bureau and the second Seminar was on “Education in India” done at the American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin (AFMI) Houston Dinner.

At Mezban restaurant, both Dr. Abdul Raheman Nakadar & Dr. Asalam Abdullah cited examples from the recent Elections of Year 2008 as to how Muslim Observer Newspaper had impact on the thought process and campaigning of various candidates including the top challenge for the President of USA. They emphasized that unless and until we establish a media institution and work together, we will not able to enhance the stature of the community, as much of our meager resources and energies will be lost: Time for a Muslim Community Media Institution is now: Any further delay will take the community further back and make life difficult for the future generations. Muslim Observer has going through one decade of continuous publication and brings something new and fresh every week for the readers. People can subscribe to the newspaper for themselves, their nearest library, congressperson, school, prison, etc. and this way expand the readership and voice of the community able to reach out larger audience. One can subscribe at: www.muslimobserver.com.

The next day at Lasani restaurant, both the esteemed guests attended the dinner of AFMI, which was attended by many. Dr. Abdul Raheman Nakadar & Dr. Asalam Abdullah said when India got independence, the Indian Muslims were looked down upon and their loyalty was challenged. Over the years through continuing efforts and perseverance, the Muslims of India have turned their tide themselves: Their education level has improved and social position has been improved. AFMI has contributed in this stride by encouraging education and health facilities for all and Dr. Nakadar through PowerPoint presentation showed many worthwhile educational and social assistance and reform projects of AFMI in India. For more information, once can visit www.afmi.org

ICNA Welcomes President Obama’s Historical Speech

The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) welcomed the speech made by President Barack Obama in Cairo, Egypt, and issued the following statement:

“The America that was envisioned by the founding fathers was presented in reality for the first time as President Barack Obama delivered his historical speech at Cairo University on June 4, 2009. The President showed his respect for Islam and Muslims and presented the true picture of Islam. His speech made the American Muslim community proud of their country and their president.”

Dr. Zahid Bukhari, President of the Islamic Circle of North America, said, “President Obama has very wisely presented his vision of this global village that we all call our world. He has touched upon the sensitive issues in a careful yet dignified manner. His speech was historical in all regards. The Muslim world has been ignored by the previous administration, causing great harm to the image of America not only in the eyes of over 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide but also in the eyes of all those just and peace-loving citizens of the world. President Obama’s speech presents a great shift in American foreign policy.”

In his speech, President Obama vowed not to tolerate Islamophobia of any kind when he said, “I have known Islam on three continents before coming to the region where it was first revealed.  That experience guides my conviction that partnership between America and Islam must be based on what Islam is, not what it isn’t.  And I consider it part of my responsibility as President of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear.”

The president also said, “So let there be no doubt: Islam is a part of America. And I believe that America holds within her the truth that regardless of race, religion, or station in life, all of us share common aspirations – to live in peace and security; to get an education and to work with dignity; to love our families, our communities, and our God. These things we share. This is the hope of all humanity.”

ICNA hopes that President Obama will make all efforts to bring an end to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and will bring the American troops back home. We believe that the suffering of the Palestinian people must come to an end and President Obama has the ability, support and vision to do just that. We also hope that the American foreign policy will support and strengthen democratic Muslim countries.

For more information, one can contact Naeem Beig, Vice President for Public Affairs, Islamic Circle of North America, E-Mail: NaeemBaig@GMail.Com; Cell: (917) 202-2118; Web-Page: www.icna.org.