U.S. needs to be on the side of Egyptian people. This is far from an Islamist takeover of Egypt.

[Better Believe It]

U.S. needs to be on side of Egyptian people
By Moustafa Bayoumi
Moustafa Bayoumi, is an associate professor of English at Brooklyn College
January 31, 2011

Make no mistake: This is a diverse and pluralistic movement, initially driven by the youth from across the country, but now encompassing people of all ages. Labor movements, youth associations, professional unions, judges and journalists, opposition parties, bloggers and their followers, the middle class and the poor, men and women, Muslim and Christians — all are uniting for a new Egypt.

This is far from an Islamist takeover of Egypt. In fact, the Muslim Brotherhood was slow to participate in the demonstrations, and reports indicate that chants of “Allahu Akbar” (“God Is the Greatest”) are being drowned out by “Muslims, Christians, we’re all Egyptians!” (It rhymes in Arabic, too.)

The United States now needs to establish the Egyptian people’s trust. Years of admonishing Arab states for their lack of democracy while propping up their dictators has left the United States with little credibility among the Arab masses.

Moving against the will of the Egyptian people will bring nothing but resentment and conflict for years to come. By being on the side of the Egyptian people, the United States has the chance to forge a common destiny with the country based on dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect.

Read the full article at:

http://www.progressive.org/mpbayoumi013111.html

[chimpymustgo]

1. We've got to be on the right side of history - and be a force for good.

A historic opportunity to change the world, and show we really do believe in democracy.

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2. Recommend

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3. K&R