Early this morning President Obama delivered a speech in Cairo, Egypt addressing many in the Middle East. While we wait for video of the President's speech you can read the full text.
I've come here to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect, and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles -- principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.
The issues that I have described will not be easy to address. But we have a responsibility to join together on behalf of the world that we seek -- a world where extremists no longer threaten our people, and American troops have come home; a world where Israelis and Palestinians are each secure in a state of their own, and nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes; a world where governments serve their citizens, and the rights of all God's children are respected. Those are mutual interests. That is the world we seek. But we can only achieve it together.
In advance of his speech the White House released this video on Muslim Americans serving in our government;
This video was SMART. Great thinking! This is a good thing to show that makes other countries respect America, and promotes AMERICAN VALUES. Unlike Gitmo's message, Muslims will admire and respect America. This is the best way to fight terror. It's great to see an EFFECTIVE State Department that is taking this pro-active message to restore our image. Thank you, Madame Secretary.
My post from on the speech from another thread:
This was one of the best speeches EVER, by ANY world leader. I was so proud to hear him speak for tolerance and peace. I have never been so proud of my President as I was this morning.
I'm a white male from the Midwest who farmed and fished for many years. I wear flannels and have a shaved head that makes people wonder if I'm a "skinhead." I'm saying this to show that I'm as hard-core "Heartland" as it gets. Some people call us "red necks." Well, I don't care. I can honestly tell you that today was one of the PROUDEST moments I have been of my President, AND my government.
I've had graduate-level political science courses, with people serving in our military, about Middle Eastern issues. And it's about time we have a President who uses logic and respect, rather than fear and hate, to EARN respect.
President Obama knocked this one out of the park... A GRAND SLAM. Bravo, Mr. President. How great it will be when America is respected around the world again. Today, President Obama's speech took a giant step towards regaining world-wide respect. Thanks you, Mr. President.
