Thoughts as they flow

1/5 of a decade later....

2011-07-31T16:42:00.000-07:00

The air of depression was so pungent in Khartoum it almost masked the residue of the passing "kataha" (sandstorm) that filled the skies as much as it found its way into your nasal passage.

It's been two years. Not only two years since my last blog entry but also since I last visited Sudan.

Much has changed over the past couple of years - globally and within my birth country. And as I prepared for my visit "home" just 2-weeks after the official inauguration of South Sudan, I could not help but wonder how SO much of nothing has probably changed. A country's split, redrawing of the borders, a tear across the land - is not something I feel a regular citizen walking across the street notices or outwardly feels. I did not anticipate any difference, regardless of all the despair splashed across my peers' social networking platforms. I just didn't buy it.

I wasn't incredibly wrong, either. Generally speaking, what I came across was not the feelings of loss at a redrawn border, rather an increased level of depression and discontentment among, primarily, the youth. It was a heightened level of what I had seen a couple of years earlier. The regular citizen was just - fed up. Even friends who were working decent jobs, were well traveled, educated etc, were shadowed by a certain gloom that surpassed all walks of life.

It baffled me. Nothing drastic has happened within the past 2 years (aside from the obvious split into 2 countries, and I could tell that this somber mood had been brewing since before the South’s secession). Was it the soaring food prices? The fact that our neighbors and nations across the way were fighting (and semi-achieving) their rights and we were benched during the big game? Rising unemployment? Was it internal politics? Or was it just the damn heat?

It could be none of the above or it could be a blend of all. What I can probably say with confidence is: protests are ignited by overarching feelings of misery at the state of your country. Calm down, overly-zealous news stations, I doubt there’s going to be a need for headlining "Sudan uprising " anytime soon, there are entirely too many pieces missing in the puzzle (which I will get into in a later blog – hey, I’m back why not?!).

However, you can’t start a fire without a spark.

The Terrorism of Labeling

2009-06-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

I've always despised the word "terrorism". Just the way it was used, solely targeting specific ethnic groups was extremely grotesque and ignorant to me. I thought of the many many incidents - DOMESTIC incidents that occur where masses of innocent people are killed for reasons unknown. Columbine massacre. Oklahoma City bombings. The KKK. The Jewish Defense League. The list goes on.

I want to refer you to an interesting article published on the Huffington Post. It starts off

"Christian Fundamentalist Terrorism. It's shocking to write. But it's time to start calling it what it is."

My first instinct upon reading this article was to immediately post it on my blog, with a description of how terrorism should NOT just be denoted to people of Arab of Islamic ethnicity. That terrorism goes far beyond the Gulf and Arab world and is located within the U.S. among OTHER faiths. But then I started thinking, really thinking about the whole concept.

I find it somewhat.... interesting when people attach a faith to the word "terrorism". Seems like an oxymoron to me. It creates a feeling of ignorance and antipathy surrounding a certain religion. It builds upon our already looming sense of misunderstanding of each other that exists in today's world. I strongly feel we need to reconsider and reflect on how we label certain acts.

One person's 'Christian Fundamental Terrorist' is another person's devout leader. One person's 'Radical Islamist' is another person's desperate 17-year old orphan.

Don't take this the wrong way. I am not excusing these random acts of violence. However, I AM making a statement that religion does not equate terrorism and should not be forced into the equation because it will add up to increasing hate.

Imprisoned Promises

2009-05-20T17:06:00.001-07:00

I watched Obama on that screen, heart swelling with happiness when he announced the closing down of the torture chamber better known as Guantanamo Bay.

Yes! The change we were looking for. Way to break free of the previous 8 years of complete and utter uselessness! Way to show the world that you are ABLE and WILLLING to restore America's image. Good job, O!

Then there's all this talk about Senate pulling funding for the closing, and that the U.S. President is left with, ultimately, 3 choices:

1) veto

2) fundraise for alternate funds

3) go along with the decision to just kind of, put off the prison - closing -issue- thing.

What in the world happened? This may not seem like such a big deal in retrospect, but, it reinforced some old feelings I once had about Presidents being Puppets. You are the face of America, you say pretty things, you make us smile and applaud (sometimes, if your act is good enough). But essentially you are being pulled and played by "others" - others of higher position. The 'REAL' decision makers.

O, don't tell me you're like that, please.

As President of a DEMOCRACY you uphold your right and RESPONSIBILTY to do what you promise. The closing down of this prison is symbolic. It has many levels of meaning - it is saying "no" to torture, "no" to evil hypocritical ways, "no" to American ruthlessness and "yes" to progression, to humanity. Some of those prisoners were brutes, yes. But you cannot be a nation that condemns inhumane treatment of human beings, a nation that denounces undemocratic approaches to justice, and then turn around and build a torture chamber on an island where prisoners (Some of who are indeed, innocent) know no justice and undergo unheard of techniques (water boarding and such) in an attempt to hear them suffer. That is not what you preach.

Relations with the East (especially the Arab world) are vital right now, O. Keep to your word, uphold your promises. You are the President of change - that's what you told us all.

Allow me to introduce you to 'Save Darfur'

2009-05-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

"What about the "Save Darfur" campaign, what kind of stuff do they do here?" I asked a local woman in Al Fasher.

"The who?" she responded quizzically.

The governor of Darfur stated:

"As the governor of the State of Darfur for 5 years, I will go on the record and tell you this: from the $310 million raised by this Save Darfur organization, not ONE dollar has been received by the people of Darfur."

I spoke to another source who said that no, Save Darfur has actually sent some funds to Darfur. That amount? $3000. Three thousand out of 31 million - what is that, one one-thousandth of their so called "Funds for Darfur"? Well let me ask you this, dear readers, and you are all pretty smart people. Logical.

Zero dollars or 3000 dollars: what happened to the rest of the rest of the money?

Some background.

"Saviors and Survivors" by Mahmood Mamadani does an excellent job of breaking down the conflict in Darfur, the Save Darfur movement and the controversies.

In reading this marvelous book, researching on my own and speaking to various intellectuals in this field, I began to slowly make sense and understand this movement. "Save Darfur" is an organization founded in a synagogue by Zionist Jews. It was a business move. I dare anyone to challenge this statement. And let me prove to you why.

Darfur is a gold mine. A friend of mine said, "it's like this: Darfur is like a chocolate cake..and everyone wants a piece of it." True. The Darfur region is rich with gold, uranium, Arabic gum, OIL and the land is sitting on top of that good ol' H2O. Yes, water. Very very useful to, like, EVERYONE in the world given the global water shortages. But especially for Israel.

An article in BBC:

"The Lebanese have long accused Israel of having designs on the waters of the River Litani, and Syria accuses it of being reluctant to withdraw from the banks of the Sea of Galilee, the source of up to 30% of Israel's water. Israelis in the West Bank use four times as much water as their Palestinian neighbours."

And on the Trumpet.com:

"Israel is currently experiencing its fourth consecutive year of drought. The drought is so bad that last winter’s rainfall was only 65 percent of the long-term average. Even though the main pipeline transporting water from the Sea of Galilee to the rest of the nation was closed for part of the year, the water level in the sea has dropped close to the danger line."

So, suffering water shortages. A looming issue for the coming years. Where to turn, where to turn?

Question: Where is a region with an unstable governance structure (Darfur is home to more 100 tribes and has undergone about 90 civil conflicts since the 80s) that will make it easy to instigate domestic struggles? And a region with the resources needed?

Answer: The western region of Darfur.

There has always been civil conflicts in the Darfur region. It goes back to the cattle grazers and the nomadic horse-riders. Strategically and intelligently frame the issue as an Arab versus African conflict. Ruthless Islamist Arabs violently killing, slaughtering, raping, innocent poor Black Africans Who could this issue be exposed to? Who would care so deeply about the poor Black people?

African Americans.

And this is what the coalition did. Upon their launching, Save Darfur implemented their campaign in every Black publication, college, community and television station. Howard University even sponsored a day off of school to host a Save Darfur rally. And they did it well. They told African Americans that BLACK people were being killed. They were being tortured and captured by these Arabs. And it was their responsibility to help out their fellow Africans.

And so the t-shirts shouting: "Save Darfur" and the images with the poor Black baby and a tear running down his dirt-stained cheek was paraded on Constitution Ave., and George Clooney stood atop that podium and called for an END to the killing of innocent AFRICANS, calling it "ethnic cleansing", and Black Entertainment Television (BET) advertised a-plenty, and "Save Darfur" become a household name. A fad. A call to action.

For all the wrong reasons.

The Darfurian tribes who committed atrocities against civilians in Darfur are as black as those they murdered, and just as indigenous. It is not a Black/non-Black issue. Check your facts, "Save Darfur."

Walk down the street in Darfur, the people look like replicas of the people in downtown Khartoum. Ever wonder why Save Darfur never had a picture of President Omar Bashir swaying in the wind alongside the "Government of Terror" slogans they posted? Because Mr. Bashir is Black. That would not have made sense. It would not have equated the Arab versus Black analogy.

Do the research. Ask questions.

Revelations in Al Fasher

2009-05-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

Darfur is Africa.

Riding down the dirt road in the Northern city of Al-Fasher, our bus seemed to be cruising down a familiar path, not foreign to many of the passengers. Beside me, a young Ghanian man said to himself: "This, this is what the fuss is about?" An established professor from Gambia looked out the window and exclaimed: "This is like many cities in Gambia. This is like Nigeria. This is like Sierra Leone. You know, this is

Africa."

He was right. Al Fasher was not just like Africa, it resembled the donkey-drawn carts, the kids running barefoot in the dirt, the mud-built huts, the very air of Sudan's capital. It was a sight all too familiar.

We eagerly walked out of the bus, keen to interact with the locals and discover the region. A young woman, maybe a few years older than me joined my group and I. She was modestly dressed in a headscarf and loose gown.She mustered up the English that she has been taught and proudly said: "I was student in Al Fasher University."

I later learned that Al Fasher University is home to more than 11,000 students and a variety of schools including the School of Engineering.
And they call it a genocide.

I had a million facts I wanted cleared up, a million questions I wanted answers, a million skepticisms I wanted voided. On behalf of the figures splashed on TV screens, the images on magazines, the accusations on Congress' lips, the fingers pointed towards the Sudanese government, John Prendegrast and Jerry Fowler (ENOUGH project founder and Save Darfur president, respectively), I impulsively and blatantly asked the young woman in Arabic: "Is there a war in Darfur?"
She smiled at my straightforwardness, a trait not common to the evasiveness of Sudanese dialogue.

"To be honest with you I have not seen an exchange of fire since 2004 when the situation was at its worst," she responded.

I was quite surprised at this new fact, and urged my group to come around so that I could translate this new piece of knowledge.

"What is going on then?" I thought to myself. This cannot be a crisis built out of absolute nothingness.

We passed a secure building, quite possibly the largest in Al Fasher. The United Nations African-Union Mission in Darfur, it spelle

d out. According to the village tribal leader we later conversed with, UNAMID was operating effectively and successfully in the region. Soon, we drove passed the dilapidated OXFAM site. Shut down permanently by the Sudanese government.

We were lead to speak to the Al Fasher

tribal leader. I chuckled to myself as I looked up at his jolly round face thought of an African Santa Clause.

He began to explain to us, as the

leader of the village, the situation in Darfur. He spoke to us about the operating schools, university, the growing health care system and mostly of the Darfurian pride. And as if on que, an old man dressed in a torn up jalabiya stained with dirt, said to our group: "We do not want your pity, we don't need your help -- we are a proud people of Sudan and are living just fine!"

Typically Sudanese, I thought to myself.

Nationalistic, patriotic and dignity for days.

We wandered around the Abu Shook camp for internally displaced people. I knew in an instant we were in one of the better sites.

I first noticed the food piled high. Watermelons were stacked one on another in the beating sun. Women were busily working, molding clay into bricks for their homes. Men were bartering and conversing at the market. People were being productive.

And they call it genocide.

The Backdrop

2009-05-18T16:14:00.000-07:00

When people find out I'm really not from D.C. or the Northern Virginia area, and that I am indeed from Sudan the first question that pops out (most) of their mouths is: "Oh my goodness: like, Darfur? It's pretty bad over there isn't it?" My reaction is usually one of the following: general agreement, wishy-washy arguments or a smile and a nod.
So when I was offered the opportunity to take a 7-day trip to Khartoum including a visit to Darfur on a "fact finding mission" - I was thrilled. I could finally see beyond the CNN's, the BBC's and the Sudan TV's - and discover, on my own, what truly lies behind the troubled zone.

Dehumanizing Palestinians via T-shirts

2009-03-24T20:55:00.000-07:00

T-shirts symbolizing a culture of hate, of inhumanity.

The Ominous Cloud Beyond the Border

2009-03-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

I was watching MSNBC this afternoon and one of the guests on the show said something quite interesting. The looming threat in the United States is not "radical Islam" (ugh that word makes me want to hurl). He said that in 10 years, the American public will not be concerned if the Sunnis or Shiites are in power in Iran (or any version of that). Rather, the threat exists just south of the border. Mexico.

In one of my classes, a couple of students remarked that Mexico is a nation that the American public is oblivious about. A threat that the American public is blind to. I found this rather interesting because

1) the statement that was made on MSNBC actually made a LOT of sense. The problem in the Middle East- whether its the Sunni-Shiite struggle in the Islamic Republic of Iran, or Hamas, or I'll go as far as to say the ruling party in Iraq, is simply NOT going to matter to John or Jane Smith from across the street. I keep saying this and I will say it again: the U.S. has to put their domestic issues as a priority. So all the hulabaloo about democratizing the East, the U.S. involving itself in Middle East affairs for the "reform of the country" - give it a rest. Americans don't care.

2) Just below the border, Mexico is a main source for many illegal drugs entering the United States, including as much as 90 per cent of the cocaine consumed in the States.

This is a hot button topic among conservative think tanks, I don't know how serious the Obama administration feels about it. However, if this indeed is the case, then, well, yikes.

"In its first version of the annual US survey of global counternarcotics efforts, the Obama State Department painted a grim picture of the situation in Mexico, where government attempts to fight traffickers are hindered by rampant corruption and have ignited a war between authorities and drug cartels that killed more than 6,000 people last year and more than 1,000 so far in 2009."-Sydney Morning Herald Feb. 28, 2009

***UPDATE***
I was quite surprised to hear Obama mention Mexico (quite distinctly and directly) during his National Press Conference Tuesday evening. One, because I blogged about it randomly and, well, I just felt like Lady Cleo with my crystal ball. Secondly, proves the point that MSNBC correspondent mentioned. So as far as Mexico's situation, Here's what "Obs" is doing: has already met with the President of Mexico Felipe Calderon , he is doubling the task force, sent $700 mil to help Mexicans, triple department intelligence analysts there and double criminal alien teams supporting Mexican law enforcement agencies.

"Can't touch this!"

2009-03-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

If you think Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir gives a hoot, he doesn't. You can't tell him anything. How did I derive at such a revolutionary thought? Well, within the past week the President will have made two international trips - Eritrea and an upcoming trip to Egypt - despite ICC arrests made several weeks ago. He was also scheduled to attend the Arab Summit in Doha (But was advised against it later by Islamic scholars in Sudan). Watch out, world!

Technically, when ICC issues an indictment on a leader, he is to be arrested as soon as he enters internatoinal airspace. And that's what ICC chief prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo has called for. But neither Eritrea nor Qatar are among the 108 signatories to the Rome treaty which established the ICC and are under no obligation to arrest Bashir. So, try a little harder Ocampo.

Sudan's United Polio Eradication

2009-03-23T13:46:00.000-07:00

The cynic in me is having a moment to recede. Today marks the second round of National Immunization Days against polio in Sudan, as the country intensifies efforts to tackle the virus.
According to a UNICEF press release this morning:
"Around 9 million children in every state of the country are being targeted in this latest initiative, which commences on Monday in the northern states and one day later in Southern Sudan."

Now I am fully aware that Sudan has not exactly been on the rose colored path for some time, however I have to say that I was (relatively) pleased to know that this initaive is being coordinated by the Government of the National Unity and the Government of the South. Together. Yay.

Eighteen of the 26 States of this vast African country now have confirmed cases of polio since the beginning of the outbreak in May 2004. A three-year period of polio-free status -- from 2001 to 2004 -- led authorities and health agencies to focus limited global resources on other countries. However, with the most recent case on February 6, 2009 and a total of 14 cases to date, nationwide efforts to fight this deadly virus have commenced once again.

All you Sudan government bashers (in whatever capacity), let's try to not to sneer at this initiative - after all, this deadly virus usually attacks children. Any effort to eradicate it gets a thumbs up from me.

Who is the U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan?

2009-03-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

J. Scott Gration

As a retired U.S. Air Force General, Gration has a diverse background. Grew up in the Congo, fluent in Swahili, more than three decades of experience in military affairs earning him seven rows of ribbons. Additionally, in 2006 he accompanied Obama (then, a Senator) on a trip to Africa as an "Africa expert."
He's been to Congo, Kenya, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, South Africa.
But, wait. Virtually NO experience in Sudan. Let me correct myself: Absolutely no experience in Sudan.

Don't mean to be critical, Mr. Gration, I mean you seem to be a pretty levelheaded man and your idea of a "no nuclear weapons" for ANYONE (including the U.S.), is pleasant. However, a special envoy to Sudan would acutally require you having been to Sudan once.

It just keeps getting getting bleaker and bleaker for Sudan.

P.S. they don't speak Swahili in Sudan, either.

Written by the Honorable Mahathir Mohamed (Former Prime Minister of Malaysia)

2009-03-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

THE INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT
By
Dr. Mahathir Mohamad
on March 16, 2009 7:13 PM

1. The International Criminal Court has issued a warrant of arrest for Omar Hassan Ahmad Al-Bashir, the sitting President of Sudan.

2. The ICC admits that this is the first warrant of arrest ever issued for a sitting Head of State of the ICC.

3. The alleged crime of President Al-Bashir is that he is "suspected" of having co-ordinated the design and implementation of the counter-insurgency campaign or alternatively it is also found that there are reasonable grounds to believe that he was in control of all branches of the "apparatus" of the State of Sudan and use such control to secure the implementation of the counter-insurgency campaign.

4. It is also alleged that he was responsible for;

• Five counts of crimes against humanity : murder - article 7(1) (a); extermination - article 7 (1) (b); forcible transfer - article 7 (1) (f) and rape - article 7 (1) (g); (the fifth is not stated)

• Two counts of war crimes; intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population as such or against individual civilians not

• taking direct part hostilities - article (2) (e) (i); and pillaging - article 8 (2) (e) (v) (the second crime is not given)

5. Apparently it was found that the President did not commit genocide and this charge could not be brought against him.

6. The world is aware of the hatred of the United States for President Bashir and clearly the US would like to see a regime change. Maybe the fact that Sudan has fairly large oil reserves has nothing to do with wanting to remove a recalcitrant Head of State. But maybe it has. Seems that those who have oil who are not compliant will get into trouble with the United States.

7. But the grounds for arrest can also be easily applied to (former President) George W. Bush and (former Prime Minister) Tony Blair. The two are both guilty (proven) of more killings, extermination, forcible transfer and rape by virtue of their having, as Heads of Government, actually co-ordinated the design and implementation of the illegal wars against the Afghanistan and Iraq - countries which cannot be proven to have attacked the US the way the insurgents attacked the Government of Sudan.

8. As Heads of State faced with insurgency the President of Sudan has a duty to act against the insurgents. Of course he must be control. He wouldn't be a responsible Head of State if he left the counter-insurgency measures to others. Since when has it been considered wrong to fight against insurgents? Are Sri Lanka, the Philippines and others also guilty?

9. We are not told what weapons were used by Bashir but Bush and Blair directed the sanctions which killed 500,000 Iraqi children, use of depleted uranium in bombs and shells, instigated a war between Sunni and Shiah Iraqis, killed more than 100,000 "civilian not taking direct part in hostilities," detaining and torturing prisoners outside the law and a host of other crimes against humanity which deserves to get the attention of the ICC; which the ICC should issue warrants of arrest.

10. If President Bashir is considered culpable, then Bush and Blair must be considered even more culpable. Many other Heads of Governments must also be issued warrants of arrests.

11. But the ICC is obviously applying double standards, picking on President Bashir but ignoring the perpetrators of the same crimes by other Heads of Governments. It is the essence of justice that it applies to everyone equally. How can we respect the ICC if it is so obviously biased and openly discriminates between different people?

12. I would warn the Heads of State of other weak countries that they are likely to suffer the same fate as the President of Sudan. It is not necessary that you have done something wrong. If you are a recalcitrant, trumped up charges can be made against you and warrants of arrest issued. You are aware that the United States is bent on effecting regime change everywhere. The ICC will be a good apparatus for this. It will be cheaper than shock and awe invasions.

13. The world must condemn the ICC action because it represents a travesty of justice. If this is allowed to go through, the ICC will become another apparatus of resurgent imperialism of the powerful countries.

14. We are already living in an unjust world. There will be more injustice with the setting up of ICC

International Reactions to Sudan's Current Affairs

2009-03-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

U.S. President Obama invited UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to visit the White House to discuss Sudan and the warrant.
The African Union gave a big thumbs up to Bashir for rejecting the ICC decision.
George Clooney is pissed.

And, today:

"A bill that would prohibit any state contracts with people who do business in Sudan passed the House on Tuesday. HB436, sponsored by Rep. David Litvack, D-Salt Lake City, is in response to the continuing conflict in Darfur and follows similar federal legislation. "As our state [has] more of a global look in its citizenry," Litvack said, "we have a role and responsibility to make social policy representing our new population." The bill passed unanimously and moves to the Senate."

-Salt Lake City Tribune

Operation Erase Silver Lining

2009-03-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

Just when I think Sudan, after putting their foot down on international pressure and criticism, will effectively start working towards positive solutions - THIS happens.

"Sudan revoked the licenses of 13 international aid organizations on Wednesday, after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir for atrocities committed in Darfur" - Voice Of America

These humanitarian orgs include: Doctors without Borders, OXFAM, Save the Children, and Mercy Corps.

Thumbs up to you, Mr. President.

My issue is this: you want to ignore international criticism? Fine. You want to fight through U.S. sanctions? Okay. You want to laugh at international court arrests? Go ahead. But when you let your pride cloud your good judgment and potentially sacrifice hundreds and thousands of Sudanese lives - YOUR Sudanese lives - that's when you become less of a leader and more of a brute.

This cannot be good for anyone. This does not prove your point, nor does it make you any stronger, Mr. President. I admired certain qualities in you and your "administration" but this, this is sad.

And the arrest goes to...

2009-03-04T20:44:00.000-08:00

It feels strange to have my President arrested. It's not that I feel he is completely innocent and the indictment was in the wrong. No. And it's not because I feel overjoyed with a sense of triumph and looming victory for the people of Sudan.
I must say, I am a little - on edge.
The ICC made its decision. An arrest was made for President Omar Al Bashir on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur. No mention of genocide.
Side note: wasn't that why Moreno-Ocampo brought this thing up in the first place?
Anywho. So the charges were made. Al-Bashir, naturally dismissed them. I actually heard around that he may have said something along the lines of: Take that warrant, immerse it in water and drink it? I don't know. I laugh because it's just so Sudanese.
There are a few things I want to explore here. First off, one thing and only ONE thing is important and cannot be overlooked. The good of the country, of our people. This ruling, is not in the good. The Sudanese people are a patriotic bunch. Regardless of their personal view of their leader, the thought of having an international body dictate the fate of one of their own is, for the most part, not going to fly.
Side note: Deja vu...Iraq?
As I digress. Sudan needs stability. They need justice. They need independence. They need direction. Granted there is a lot going on, Darfur (among other regions in Sudan that have long been overlooked), is an issue one cannot ignore. As I said earlier, President al-Bashir is responsible for the 300,000, as well as the thousands more in the South, Kordofan, and other regions in Sudan that are under siege in whatever capacity. You're President of ALL of Sudan, not just one part, therefore you're responsible.
Which brings me to point number 2. The ICC. *Sigh* Their role in this situation is not benefiting very many people. Okay, let's say the President steps down. Then what? I don't think they are grasping the full gravity of this situation - if he leaves there will be UTTER AND COMPLETE chaos in this country. The people cannot and will not survive this.
Side note: If the ICC's prime objective is to "help end impunity for the perpetrators of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community," why have we not heard of ICC putting their foot down with Iraq? Guantanamo? PALESTINE?! Crimes were happening a-plenty there. Believe me.

Now, you're not going to catch me with an I heart al-Bashir shirt anytime soon, BUT I have to say that this is big problem, a big SUDANESE problem. Call me overly optimistic or naive, but this is something the international community needs to back up off of. And something the Sudanese government needs to take care of. ASAP.

Remember the Gazans

2009-03-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

It's been months since the horrific exchange of fire between the people of Palestine and Israel in Gaza. There was a significant response from the international community; dollars were raised, petitions were signed, people rallied, flags burned.

And then, it just, phased away.

What happened? Why does we go through such phases of passion and phase to indifference? Why do burnt homes, broken families and dead children make us weep one day and switch the channel the next?

Gaza is still hurting.

Sudan's (growing) to-do list

2009-03-02T22:18:00.000-08:00

We're about 24 hours away from the ICC's ruling of charges of war crimes against Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir.

As we say in Sudan, "wob alena"
(a.k.a. "oh goodness, let's brace ourselves!")

Now, several steps have been taken by the Sudanese government leading up to this date. (Sugaring the ICC perhaps?)

Al Bashir, on several occasions, publicly denounced any war crimes occurring in Darfur. Last November the President called for a ceasefire in Darfur. Al-Bashir said he was looking forward to having "free elections in the future"(I'm curious to see how that turns out). More recently, peace talks were held in Doha, Qatar between the Sudanese government and the JEM rebel movement in which a "declaration of intent" was signed.

The declaration touched on issues such as the release of some JEM war prisoners and security and safety of the IDPs and civilians.

So, with the hours counting down for the fate of my president to be stated (more or less), I can't help but wonder what Al-Bashir have planned? If indicted and an arrest is issued, will the Sudanese government unleash a hurricane of rebellion on UN and humanitarian workers in Khartoum? Will he bow down gracefully and wave a white flag? I can't help but laugh at the preposterous questions, neither of which will probably be done. I know Sudanese. They're not stupid enough to do the former and well, the latter is just out of the question!

I don't know where I stand on this issue, quite honestly. I don't want to see my President indicted, I only feel it will bring about more political instability and create a turbulence that Sudan will probably not overcome. But I also don't want him to get off the hook that easily. Whether or not he is responsible for what is happening in Eastern and South Sudan, a President's role and duty is to ensure the safety and security of his people - all of them. And if 300,000 Sudanese have died during your presidency in your country, then that's a problem you have to deal with. Minus international interference. (But don't get me started on that).
Let's not forget a key player here though - China. Good ol' China.
Somehow I feel like they won't let anything happen to Sudan. We're buds, you see. We strive on each other, economically. Bonnie and Clyde.

I'll be back tomorrow for an update of Sudan's fate, and its to-do list, because it definitely is going to have some cleaning up to do.

Rush to Steele the GOP

2009-03-02T20:49:00.000-08:00

Rush Limbaugh has done it again.
At a passionate speech at CPAC vocal conservative talk show host adamantly told fellow Republicans "What is so wrong if I want Barack Obama to fail?"
Well, Mr. Limbaugh, I can think of a few answers to that question. But I have a more significant question is Rush the de facto leader of the GOP?
Additionally, his whole shpeel got me thinking about the future of U.S. political parties and this whole talk about bi-partisanship, and more importantly, how silly this is becoming. RNC Chairman Michael Steele shot back at Rush's comments saying:
"Rush Limbaugh's an entertainer his whole thing is entertainment" calling Rush Limbaugh incendiary, ugly. Nice, Mr. Steele. Rush, bearing his teeth responded: "Michael Steele you are NOT head of the republican party...It's time, Mr. Steele for you to go behind the scene and do the work YOU were elected to do. I hope you learn how to run a primary system."
Oh boo hoo! Mr. Steele, Mr. Limbaugh, shame on both of you.
Firstly, as an AMERICAN, Mr. Limbaugh is in the wrong. No matter what your political affiliation is, no matter what ideals you stand by, you should not wish failure upon your commander in chief. There is way too much going on with the crumbling economy, failing health care, looming struggles overseas (a.k.a Afghanistan) for you to point fingers, rile up people (for no good reason), and bring down your president. I'm not even American and I think that was ridiculously unnecessary. Collect your thoughts, think them through and get it together. This is not 4th grade playground. Instead of using the platform of CPAC to stir up such negative emotions among your loyal listeners, why not create a more constructive environment in which you focus on the problems that matter to each and every one of those people (and YOU oh-loyal Rush fans, wake up).
And, I know, so maybe Rush was talking about Barack's ideas that he wants to fail (so HIS can take the forefront), but still a very destructive ideology and again, quite childish.
Mr. Steele, you're not any better. During CNN's D.L. Hughley Breaks the News, Michael Steele pumped his chest and gallantly responded to the question of whether Rush was the de facto GOP leader: "No he's not. I'm the de facto leader of the Republican party."
Um, thanks Mr. Steele. We know that, we saw the headlines last month.
Then the next day, he apologized to Rush.
Hmmph.
Nevertheless, these two grown men, primary faces of the GOP are creating a tumultuous scenario, going back and forth about a topic that just seems to be going nowhere.
The GOP is desperate to gain leverage, to regain their seat back and run the show. Understood. It's all politics. But THIS is not the way to go about it, and again there are more important things going on around us. Carry on this way, and the GOP will have NO face. NO voice. Just useless back and forth banter.

140 pages of knowledge: New Gallup Poll Revealed

2009-03-02T14:52:00.000-08:00

The curtains were pulled today to introduce the first ever Gallup poll on Muslim Americans revealing that this group of people are the most racially diverse religious group in the United States of America.

Maybe I am a bit bias but I absolutely believe that this report should be broadcast widely; the knowledge disseminated across the nation. The survey reveals interesting statistics such as the fact that Muslim American women are one of the most highly educated female religious groups in the United States, second only to Jewish American women.

The report shed light on numerous findings that are vital to the role of Muslim Americans in the U.S. today as well as the rest of America, in regards to breaking the barrier of misunderstanding and misrepresentation.

Additionally, statistics such as these: only 51% of young Muslim Americans are registered to vote, which is one of the lowest percentages among young Americans surveyed, can be quite important to future political candidates in pulling their voters. After all these Muslim Americans are a part of the fabric of America, their votes weighing an enormous difference.

In an essay for the Gallup report, Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn. — the first Muslim elected to Congress — urged Muslim Americans to "step out of the shadows of your own world, and step forthrightly into a participatory America."

I totally agree with Mr. Ellison. America needs these Muslim Americans to step up to the forefront and make a name of themselves. President Barack Obama declared in his inaugural address, "To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect." Yes, and the Muslim world seeks a new constructive way to have our voices heard, our image repaired, and our individuality respected.

I strongly urge those with peaked interests, those who are aware and those who aren't, to take a look at this report, found here:
http://www.muslimwestfacts.com/mwf/116074/Muslim-Americans-National-Portrait.aspx

Yay Gallup! :)

2009-02-23T11:19:00.000-08:00

After a brief hiatus...I'm back :)

No, the thoughts did not stop flowing. They actually have been building up for these2 months of my absence...and now I'm ready to open the flood gates again...thanks to some special inspiration.

So, ladies and gentlemen. We've had a few quite interesting tid bits happening here and there, have we not? Obama's historic inauguration (and the aftermath), the economy, the passing of a Sudanese literary genius Al Tayeb Salih, Doha's suprising peace mediating conferences, (yet another) peace signing between the Sudanese government and a rebel movement, the economy, Rihanna and Chris Brown's domestic issues, Israel's new PM, the birth of Sen. Patrick Leahy's Truth Commission, a NY Post comic strip gone terribly wrong, the 81st annual Oscar's (which were quite oblivious to the devastating economy proven by the thousands of Sworvski crystals hanging flashily across the stage)...

By the way, I was kidding - Rihanna and Chris' issues are of no importance to me.

So, my dear readers the Global Wanderer is back in full effect.

Read on..and enjoy!

From Me, With Love

2009-01-04T22:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Khalil,

I fell in love with you even though you could not speak.

Your eyes spoke to me. They were big, brown and inquisitive. I fell in love with you, Khalil. You were different.

When I walked into the room, I did not immediately notice you. The room was sticky, despite the AC roaring on the wall. There were about 12 cribs aligned against four walls. Each baby looked so different, proving the melting pot of Sudan. There stories were heart wrenching and depressing. Babies saved from hungry dogs, found in small, dilapidated bathrooms, failing to flush down public bathrooms, despite their 14-year old's mother's wishes. I tried not to think of that, and found it very easy to forget as I looked at their faces. So pure and innocent. My mother let out a laugh as I saw her talking to you.

I rushed to her side to find you. You were perfect.

They called you the most popular one. The healthiest. I didn’t care. Your smile had me. I held you and spoke to you, yielding laugther from your little belly. I spoke to you about your future, would you be a doctor? Travel the world? Have a family? You smiled and your eyes searched my face for answers. Now, I think about whether you were looking for answers to my questions or to yours.

Your big brown eyes were wise beyond their years, just like the others. You told a story that I wish I knew. If she knew you know, she would have never let you go, Khalil, I promise. Everyone loved you. She would have, as well.

I held your face against mine and listened to your deep raspy breaths, probably from the waves of air constantly being blown by the fan on the ceiling. I wanted you to love me back, but I was afraid of it, too. Because I knew it could never possibly be. I looked into your eyes once again and told you, sternly, that you will have a home. You will be held everyday. Do you remember?
I do.

I remember you looking right back at me, still smiling. Bursts of laughter uncontrollably rushing through you. So contagious, no wonder why everyone around you smiles. I hope one day you know that.

I put you back in your crib and your smiles remained, strained, and mirrored by short cries and you reaching out to me. Urging me to come back and give you more promises.

As I left the orphanage I tried not to look back at you. Not to have that last look at the boy that stole my heart. But I did, and your smile remained, your eyes fixated. And still, searching for a clue.

I’m sorry I let you down. I’m sorry I walked away like so many before. I think about you constantly and know that someday your smile will warm a home and your eyes will look into the eyes of someone faithfully yours, your questions all answers.

Love,

Me.

Hamas : Identified

2008-12-28T21:36:00.000-08:00

December 12, 2008.
Death roll hits close to 300.

They say they are targeting Hamas. Apparently, Hamas looks like this now:

And Israel announced......this is just the beginning.

"Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said Saturday that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will deepen and widen its offensive in the Gaza Strip as much as needed...The Israeli minister explained "there is a time for cease-fires and a time to fight, and now is the time to fight."

Welcome to Palestine

2008-12-27T20:26:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of bodies lay sprawled across the burning streets. Blood lines the sidewalks, decorated by the various trinkets that were once a part of someones existence. Body parts are scattered, like litter. As men walk over the bodies, they help the ones that are closer to life. Those who survived the attacks. I never thought men could cry in such agonizing pain, I thought to myself as a man fell to his knees in blood-curdling screams yelling at the sight of the disaster. Could that be his brother he is standing over? Tears swelled in my eyes as I watched the most beautiful baby girl with a mass of blond curls whimpering as she takes her last breath of air on a makeshift hospital bed. Her little hands clung to her purple coat, limp and helpless. Where is her mother? I thought to myself. I couldn't shake the feeling that the sounds of sirens, wailing, and blasts in the background were the last sounds of life to this little girl. Probably sounds filled her life, as well.

This is genocide. Welcome to Palestine.

December 27, 2008 Israel attacks Gaza, Palestine and kills at least 225 men, women and children and injures 750 others. In one day. Bloodiest day since 1967.

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said the operation to "obliterate Hamas will continue as long as it takes". To "obliterate" Hamas, meaning, destroying every dying thread left in the war grounds known as Palestine. Release 30 missiles and wipe out families, homes, schools, hospitals (or at least what is LEFT of these), to find and demolish Hamas.
When will it stop? The people of Palestine have no where to turn to - literally. The wounded could barely get medical attention.
"We lack everything, we lack medical equipment, we lack anesthesia, we lack bandages, we lack fuel for ambulance vehicles, we lack medicine, everything," cries Muawiyah Hassanein head of Gaza's Ambulance and Emergency Department. U.S.-supplied high technology Israeli weaponry versus poorly-funded, underdeveloped Hamas artillery.

The 100 tons of bombs came mid-morning, when all schools and offices were up and running with children and their working families. Not the typical night attacks that Palestine is used to. Strategic move.
This is genocide.

And the global reaction? Condemnation. A word. A slap on the wrist. Their Arab neighbors watched in shock and horror and "condemned" Israel for such a horrific act. Really, to save the 6-six year old dying girl who is being carried miles down because there are no available or working ambulances, she's going to need a little more than your disapproval, fellow Arabs.

Here are a few of these reactions (obtained from The Saudi Gazette):
"President Abbas demands that the Israeli government stop this aggression immediately to spare our people its painful effects.." Aide to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas
"Egypt condemns the Israeli military attacks.." Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak
"...Whilst we understand the Israeli government's obligation to protect its population we urge maximum restraint to avoid further civilian casualties. We also call on militants in the Gaza Strip to immediately cease all rocket attacks on Israel" British foreign office
"...The raids against innocent people are unforgivable and unacceptable" Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman
"We are very concerned at the events in Gaza. We call for an immediate ceasefire.." Spokesman for EU foreign policy chief
"The IDF will continue its operations against terror in accordance with constant status assessments by the IDF Chief of General Staff. This operation will be continued, expanded and intensified as much as required" Israeli Defense Force statement

The Arab community is so afraid of their political future and relations with the West, a simple "bad, bad, Israel" will have to suffice. The West, obviously with very strong Israel ties, did not call for an end to the attacks. They did however call for Hamas to stop their attacks. Never once did they mention the hundreds of civilians lining the streets of the slaugther house of Palestine. "Hamas' continued rocket attacks into Israel must cease if the violence is to stop...The United States urges Israel to avoid civilian casualties as it targets Hamas in Gaza," in a statement made by White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe.

They have absolutely no one. Arab world, gone. Muslim world, no where to be found. The United Nations? Forget about it. The United States? Yea, right.

This is genocide.

It baffles me how a people could be ignored for so long? They are forced to leave a land that has been their home for centuries. They are protecting their religious site, the third Holy site of Islam - Al Aqsa Mosque. It is the responsibility of the Muslim world to help. Where is the action? Words cannot save.

Their lives are destroyed. With no medical care, little food, and no protection, they are forced to escape into bordering countries, primarily Egypt and Jordan. Once there, they are subject to the ill-mannered treatment of unwanted refugees, again finding it difficult to integrate into society and access public services (i.e. hospitals etc). Living in constant fear and struggle.

Sometimes I believe that this is the fate of the Palestinian people. They've been fighting for thousands of years. In 608 B.C. Palestine was attacked by an Egyptian force under the Pharaoh and in 597 B.C. the city was invested and fell victim to a severe famine. Then another wave of struggle was brought on by the rebellion of King Zedekiah.

This is genocide. And right now, God is their only hope.

The shoe felt across the world

2008-12-16T06:30:00.000-08:00

It was as if the ENTIRE world was watching the same joke in different languages. Versions of what happened were recreated, videos posted, jokes passed around. Protesters riled the streets chanting the victory of a hero.
On the 14th of December, 2008, the President of the United States George W. Bush got not one, but two shoes hurled at him during a press conference in Iraq.

Just as fast as George Dubyah ducked, the world turned into a frenzy of emotions.

From Malaysia's foreign minister calling it the "best show of retaliation so far..that remarkable reporter who gave President bush his final farewell last week" and adding that it was "the best weapon of mass destruction to the leader who coined the phrase 'axis of evil' to denote Iran, Iraq, and North Korea"
... to media sources in North Korea saying he "deserved it" and "likened his demeanor to a cock soaked in the rain" (aligned with a Korean proverb);
.. to a more grassroots reaction of thousands of protesters in countries like Pakistan and Iraq,
...to an Egyptian man even offering his 20-year-old daughter as a wife to the 28-year-old Iraqi journalist known as Muntadhar al-Zeidi, the shoe throw was symbolic.

In the Arab world to reference a shoe as an insult to someone is probably one of the most disrespectful forms of expression. "Adeek bil gazma" literally meaning "I'll give it to you with a shoe," is just what al-Zeidi did to the U.S. Commander in Chief.

The incident ignited such a powerful global reaction, I can't help but feel a little pity towards the man who is now by far the most hated man in the world. The crazy part is, he knows it, too.

An official portrait of the U.S. president was unveiled in the Washington D.C. National Gallery today to which he jokingly remarked: ""I suspected there would be a good-sized crowd, once word got out about my hanging."

He has no idea.

Within hours of the press conference, gamers went to work and now there are several dozens different websites launched where the avid shoe thrower can go and actually try his or her luck at hitting President Bush: http://kroma.no/2008/bushgame, http://www.sockandawe.com, and flash.vg.no/grafikk/bush/kast_sko.html to name a few.

There was also a wide reaction of not-so-pleased audience members who think the shoe throwing incident was disrespectful and unnecessary. Now, I can understand where these feelings come from. You have an official visiting your country, it would be proper to act in a civilized way so as not to create a scene, start a negative chain of events, things of that sort - basic courtesy and common sense - I mean I would never do such a thing. The possibility of spending 15 years in prison? I think I'll pass.

..However...

being responsible for the death of hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqis, displacing thousands more, creating a surge of fear and constant anxiety across the globe, that beats disrespect. I'm not speaking on behalf of al-Zeidi , but I can imagine that he, along with many many other Iraqis (and other nationalities for that matter) was just fed up, angry, and washed out with the turmoil that his country has been through for the past 4 years. And then seeing you there, Mr. President, standing in front of him claiming "the war is not over, yet" "peace is still to come" - empty words to a man who has probably seen family and friends killed or disappear, it's just not a very common sense or logical moment in time. He just flipped and threw his shoes at your head calling you a dog.

Not very classy and not very tactful and he's probably going to pay the price (if he hasn't already). But I think in order to understand why the shoe left his feet and almost landed on George Bush's face, you must put yourself in al Zeidi's place.

By far on the list of my "Oh my God! 2008 moments" (Coming soon)

Under the veil of racism

2008-12-11T08:09:00.000-08:00

Racism is a complex and ugly concept that one usually associates with the trying times of African American slavery in the early 1900s. It comes as a shock to many people, especially to my peers in the United States, when I mention that a certain level of racial discrimantion exists, pretty strongly, in the Arab world. A few have said to me: "but how come? Arabs aren't really white, so they can't really be racist." Oh, but they can. See, they're not black.

I can't put my finger on when it was exactly that I realized my being black made me stand out from amongst my Arab friends through middle and high school. I fondly remember an incident in 1991 living in the harsh winterland of Helsinki, Finland. My family was most definitly a striking difference to the regular Finnish blond haired blue eyed, fair-skinned family. We were riding on the bus heading into town. My father is on the dark end of the "color spectrum" (I say color spectrum, because its significance will be later explained in this post). A little Finnish girl gazed up at this dark man with her bright blue eyes and courageously rubbed my father's arm. She inquisitvely looked at her hand, in pure amazement that the "black" did not rub off.

It wasn't that moment, though.

There was this time, when, in high school, I was sitting with a group of my friends in the hallway. One of the boys, a regular jokester, made a very loud, very funny comment, apparently, saying to me: "Noon, what do YOU know? You're a maid, anyways!" Abda was the word he used. Technically meaning, a slave, referring to Black slaves. The laughter that vibrated across the hallway was strange. It wasn't the attacking, intending to hurt ME. It was that the joke was just sincerely FUNNY to these people. That's where the prejudice is a little different. It's just....accepted.

Speaking purely from my experience in Saudi Arabia, now. I don't care what anybody says. Racism exists. It's stench stretches across the Saudi man's disgusted gaze at "the help" - whether it be a Filipino maid, or an Indian driver; it exists on the words of the young boys driving by my car yelling "ya Asmarani!" (a fond way of saying: Hey black one!); it exists in the thousands of commercials emphasizing the beauty of fair skin; it exists in the obsolteness of a darker skinned Arab singer; and through nonchalant abda jokes.

It's funny because it's not a concept Arabs - whether dark skinned or not - really think about or discuss. Or, perhaps, the more correct thing to say is that it is not KNOWN that the issue is being talked about, given widespread integrated media censorship.

I remember two incidents in Lebanon and Egypt in which, upon passing by some locals, something to the effect of: "oh how pretty she is, too bad she's Black" - was shouted towards me. Now, the strange thing is in some cases, like the above, is that these locals were acutally sincere in their comments, and I know to them, its not a matter of racism. It's a matter of preference. Fair skin in the Arab world is historically a sign of beauty. So, as much as I wanted to shout back at the ignorance of random discriminatory messages, I hold myself back because it's a cultural thing. I told myself not to get upset when, oddly enough, Arabs would enthusiastically say "show us a rap!" or "do that new Janet Jackson move!" My response always upset them, yielding a "what kind of a Black person are you anwaysys?" All I could think to myself was - "the kind that's from Sudan."

If we venture past the Middle East into the Black Continent, or Africa, it is quite ironic that you will also come across a different kind of race issues. Speaking particularly on Sudan, now. Sudan - its root "sood" means "black" - so "land of the Black". One would think the racial pride radiating from the "land of the Black" is widespread. However, that is not quite the case. Society places a lot of emphasis on women's beauty, strongly dependent on the lightness of the skin! It is very common to find a Sudanese woman who uses special creams to bleach her skin or uses enormous amounts of makekup to ligthen their complexion creating a clown-like appearance. Even within families, it is quite common to play favorites among the daugthers of lighter complexion, who usually are awarded for their "beauty" by being a hot commodity for marriage. Now, this is not a trend that is characterized in each family in Sudan and, nowadays with the overarching channels of media and the new generation of globalized youngsters, it is not something that is as apparent as the past. But the concept of the "color spectrum" totally exists. You hear it on the old Sudanese women's random comments rambling that "it's fine she's not THAT dark" or "she's fair-skinned; absolutely beautiful!"

There's a fine line between a preference of race and then the outward disrespect. I turned on my TV during the holy month of Ramadan a couple of months ago (September-ish) and, like many ex-patriats living in the region, was surprised at what I was watching. Recently awareness campaigns have taken a step forward and produced several ads like the following:

Translation: “Put it. Don’t you understand me? Put the rice! DAMNIT! Go, get out of my face.”
“What’s wrong with her, doesn’t she understand?”
“She’s abnormal.”

Translation:

Scene 1: "Rahma! Come here! What's wrong with this ironing? Looks horrible, like your face! Just like your work, horrible!"

Scene 2:"Sir, can I get my salary? I haven't gotten my salary for 2 months."

"You're annoying me! I told you, I have no money. You want me to go steal for you or what? There are some people that haven't received their salary for 3 or 4 months!"

Scene 3: "God damn you! Hurry up! Where the hell did you come from anyway?!"

Scene 4: "Excuse me sir, I would like to get your permission to go visit my daughter and check up on her at the hospital."

"What do you mean you would like to be excused? Work is work. After the shift, you can go check on her. Am I responsible for your family as well?"

Scene 5: (text) Those who do not show mercy

"Oh God, show mercy on me, please. Help me, my Lord, I am weak."

(text) Will not be shown mercy.

These "Rahma" ads or "Mercy" ads have just recently been widely circulated across the Middle East. Incidents like the ones presented in the two advertisements, are largely common within the Arab world and are reflective of how some maids and drivers are treated in households. Whether their message has proven effective is hard to tell, however, I strongly beleive that the initiative in producing such strong public service annoucnements is a great first step. The cultural image of race is something that is quite complex. It is quite embedded within society, I don't know if we need a Martin Luther King Jr. to rile up the masses in order to confront the issue or an Erykah Badu to break the mold, but I think that the first step in uncovering the racism that exists in the Arab world would be in not pretending the veil has nothing to hide. Indeed mentalities are difficult and seemingly impossible to change, however, I am enthusiastic to see how the sands of time that blew through the decades of slavery unveiling an African American president, will blow through the deserts of our history, as well.

What does President Obama mean for Sudan?

2008-11-26T09:38:00.000-08:00

When the annoucement was made that President Elect Barack Obama was nominated as the 44th president of the United States, no one can deny the victorious cheer that resonated across the globe. An example that I'm going to go with hits close to home. All my friends from Sudan were beyond ecstatic at Obama's sweeping triumph. Whether they were people I knew that resided within Sudan or ex-patriates living abroad - they were undoubtedly thrilled at the new U.S. president. I was, and still am, right there beside them sharing their excitement. Alas, not all is rose-colored my friends.

I want to ask you, especially, fellow Sudanese aged 18-27: why are you so ecstatic at Obama's nomination? Is it because it's just NOT McCain or does he possess some kind of ideal that you find immeausureably admirable? Lastly, and this is the point I want you to really reflect on..do you, fellow Sudanese, know what Obama's presidency means to our home country?

I didn't think so.

It is our responsibilty, our duty to know, to understand to be prepared for what's to come. Sure President Elect Obama is a wonderful man. He's charming, he represents the ideals of change, progressiveness, the silver lining in the course of bad U.S. political affairs. Plus, he's an ethnic minority. Always a plus, right? But it's more than that. So much more. This situation needs to be viewed at via Obama's team. First, his Vice President, Joe Biden.

Senator Biden is the chairman of the foreign relations committee at the US senate and presided over many hearings discussing the situation in Darfur. He has been extremely active and voiceful in regards to the Darfur issue.

In April 2007 he said "it’s time to put force on the table and use it." Biden said that senior US military NATO officials in Europe told him that 2,500 U.S. troops could “radically change the situation on the ground [in Darfur]”.

So, after letting that marinate for a little, I urge you to ask yourself again - what does this mean for Sudan?

Allow me to pose future scenarios. The U.S. is facing one of its most challenging times in its history: the economic crisis. Barack Obama is going full-fledged with this #1 issue on America's minds. He just completed setting up his economic advisory board, fully equipped with former Federal Reserve chairman Paul A. Volcker, and is preparing himself for some serious investiagtions and assessments to possible solutions on this growing problem. You can say that starting January 20, 2009, Obama's schedule will pretty much be heavily dedicated towards dealing with this financial mess. So, as far as Washington's foreign-relations are concerned, there are loud whispers among sources that Hillary Clinton will be appointed as President Obama's Secreatry of State. It's looking more and more certain that Hillary will be taking over on C Street.

In a letter to President George Bush dated February 8, 2008, Hillary Clinton urged the administration to work towards tackling the Darfur situation:

"The genocide in Darfur must be brought to an end, and the United States has a responsibility as a world leader to bring its weight to bear in order to achieve peace...It is time for this administration to develop a clear, coherent policy toward Sudan and to make all necessary diplomatic efforts to stop this tragedy.”

Through various amendments and speeches, Sen. Clinton makes it utterly clear that "the United States should apply all points of pressure" to ensure that the govenrment of Sudan takes action to stop the situation in Darfur.

Essentially, Obama's VP and his potential Secretary of State will be the ones leading all things foreign-related while he strives to tackle the economic state of the country. With that said, I ask you, fellow Sudanese, once again: what does this mean for our country?

I believe, passionately, that over 200,000 civilian deaths and 2.5 million displaced is not something to shrug your shoulders and casually look the other way about. Not at all. But while Brtain ruled over India, Lord Louis Moutbatten told Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi: "If we just leave, there will be chaos," to what Ghandi replied: "Yes, but it will be our chaos."

Darfur is a horrible situation, one that, without a doubt, needs critical attention. But it is our responsibility, our chaos. The very LAST thing Sudan needs is U.S. forces injected into our country. We do not need another Iraq. As editor of Newsweek International Fareed Zakaria stated: "if the United States acted alone or with a small coalition - invading its third Muslim country in five years - the attempt would almost certainly backfire, providing the Sudanese government with a fiery rallying cry against "U.S. imperialism."

So in effect, when 2009 rolls around, strengthetning U.S. pressure on Sudan, by however methods they deem necessary, may be a top item on the Presidential to-do list. The only aspect that may possibly withstand a move towards that direction is again, the troubled economy. Right now, the U.S. does not have the money to send a ship to Somalia to ratify the piracy happening off the coast of Somalia or send more troops to the lingering situation in Afghansitan, let alone plan, train, manage and command another military movement to Sudan. But if the economy does begin to straighten itself out, the prospect is still out there.

So, I ask you again, fellow Sudanese: what does President Obama really mean for Sudan?

The world is your playground - you can't escape the bully.

2008-11-20T04:28:00.000-08:00

America is everywhere. From the 100 Billboard Singles being played on my TV in Saudi Arabia, to McDonald's in Kuala Lampur. The United States influence has literally reached every corner of the Earth. Now, there are some places like in Khartoum, Sudan where, given the not-so-close US-Sudan relations, one cannot see a Starbucks at every corner nor the big golden arcs beaming from every direction. For political reasons that I choose not to get into (at least not now), countries like Sudan do not host the enterprises that make America the powerhouse of the globe. But, don't go waving your Sudanese flag in nationalistic pride just yet. We may not have Kentucky Fried Chicken, but we sure do have California Fried Chicken. Pizza Hut? No, we offer Pizza Hot. And for the good ol' golden arcs, we don't conform. You can find: Lucky Meal, proudly boasting an M, not to be mistaken for the McDonald's "m".

Globalization is everywhere. It's seeping into every nook and cranny of every country. You cannot possibly escape it. Let me make myself clear: I have nothing against the concept of globalization. I think Thomas Friedman, globalization expert, makes some excellent eye-opening points about globalization. However, I have some...well..concerns.

1) Since when does globalization necessarily mean Americanization?

2) Can globalization and culture live in harmony?

When I observe the world around us and how fast things are changing, I cannot help but imagine a typical middle school playground. You have the bully and you have the frail outcast. The bully is there. Always there. He's watching you and if you got something he wants, he'll get it. If the frail outcast, with his coke-bottle glasses, doesn't conform to what the bully wants, he's done. Your time at the playground will be your worst nightmare. No swings, no see-saw. Nothing. If you give in to the bully, maybe even be his sidekick and start talking and dressing like him, your chances of surviving in that playground look pretty darn good.

Do you see where I'm going?

The United States is like one big bully. It is the newest country in the world. But boy the U.S. of A. came in with a vengeance. The 232-year old independent nation is the world's super power. Countries that do not go in line with what the U.S. puts forth, are immediately black listed, sanctioned, or something else that can ultimately harm their economy or development. It's 4th grade all over again.

I do not hate the United States. Not at all. Their ideals of freedom and opportunity are unique and the driving factor of their global advancement and success. I have the U.S. to thank for my education. So for that, I am grateful. If anything, I have to give the U.S. credit. Kudos for their ability to have the entire world strive to be like them, be loved by them, or just settle to not be hated by them. Even countries who have U.S. imposed economic sanctions, still have the smell of Western influence drizzled across the country.

Example. During the hypness of the U.S. elections, there was this global frenzy going on. I was in Sudan this past summer. There are these 3-wheeled battery powered cars called "rakshas" they're the cheaper form of transportation, found also in India - they're very noise, very unsafe, very cheap. I spotted a raksha speeding past us one hot day in Khartoum with a big bold sticker in its back window proudly reading: "OBAMA"

Still not satisfied?

Well, try visiting one of the run down cities of Khartoum. Electricity and water are luxuries. When they manage to get the electricity up and running again after 48-hours of shortages, you better believe that you will hear 50 Cent's "In the Club" blasting through the old 1970s tape player.

Globalization.

Then the culture issue comes to play. Globalization has no culture. It's an entity, a movement, a force that has no limitations. It does not take into account the implications on a country's culture or traditions. So you are then faced with young adults in developing nations whose parents, and parents' parents seem like totally different species. These 18, 19-year-olds with their hip hugging jeans, adorned with their iPods and Steve Maddens, and E!TV, speak a completely different language than their families. Their heads are utterly and totally geared toward "that day" when they will finally be in univesity in the States or in the U.K...when they can let out an exasperated sigh: "finally I'm home." Should a line be drawn? Should someone grab these young people by the shoulders and scream : "you're NOT American!" Should we shut them in their rooms prohibiting the forces of globalization to rape them of their cultural backbone?

I think the answer lies in the stigma associated with the word "bully". A balance is needed in where we can look at this bully, at his positive traits, use them. And for everything else, keep our coke-bottle glasses on despite the name-calling and accept the fact that the playground will always be run by someone else.

Sarah's Fate

2008-11-09T22:27:00.000-08:00

From her designer glassess to her snazzy outfits, Governor Sarah Palin was in and out like the hi-top fade cut trend. She definitly created a stir within the campaign. Unfortunately her light didn't shine so bright as things progressed in the election. There's a number of factors which led to her short-lived popularity, many which are now voiced by anonymous Republican campagin sources. She came in with such a full force, though. The media had a field day with her. The opposing campaign had to have felt some kind of concern over their fate. I have to admit, it was a very strategic move by McCain - trying to save his troubled campaign by adding a young, "picture perfect" woman. No shady past, can relate very much to the typical American woman and can compensate for the issue about McCain's age. We didn't know it then, but after the campagin was over and President Elect Obama celebrated his victory, things here and there crept up about Sarah Palin - her inability to stay on cue with speech topics, the controversy surrounding her pricey wardrobe, prioritizing her own self-interest ahead of the campaigns'. So now that she's basically been admired, questioned, examined, scrutinized, and then forgotten by the American public and the media - what's Sarah's fate? Travel back to Alaska and regain control of her position as the Governor? Some have suggested starting up a talk show? Travel around the nation and deliver speeches? Stay at home and take care of her growing family?

I have a suggestion. What about becoming a "community organizer"? Apparently they're known to make something of themselves and even end up becoming Presidents.

We're not racist, we just like to pretend you don't exist

2008-11-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

The elephant in the room. That's the first phrase that came to mind when I read a Nov. 6 article published on the NY Times entitled "Among Young Muslims, Mixed Emotions on Obama." The article describes the sentiment of various Muslim college students for Obama.

"It was easy for them to love the candidate. With the same passion, and for the same reasons that millions of other young people did, they loved Barack Obama's call to activism, the promise of change, the sheer newness of the guy. What was hard was feeling they could not show it because they were Muslims."

Now, that's kind of aggravating. I know, I know, I know post 9/11, "Muslim" "Islam" "Allah" "Jihad" "Mosque" have all been words that create a tidalwave of shock, fear, and an inevitable nervous smile coupled with a hasty exit. Bringing any kind of empathy toward those 'Muslims' is a big no-no within the political arena. But I have to ask myself, and you, dear reader, what gives? It just seems plain silly that having Muslim supporters is something to be ashamed of. Shouldn't it manifest your peaceful vision for the nation? Shouldn't it prove, even more, your ideal for "not a White, not a Black, not an Asian America but a UNITED States of America?"

The article states: "The campaign had dismissed a Muslim staff member for seemingly flimsy reasons. A campaign worker had shuttled two young Muslim women wearing head scarves out of the line of sight of TV cameras at a rally."

I'm a woman. I'm Muslim and I wear a headscarf. If I was an American citizen, I would be the FIRST person in line to vote for Mr. Obama, fully adorned with my long-sleeved Obama for Change shirt. No problem. But I can't help but think - why am I so outspoken about my support for you, when you use every possible twist and turn NOT to show your support of me? Maybe I'm too hopeful, maybe I've got my head in the clouds. Afterall, it is all politics. It would, as these young college students stated, badly hurt his campaign if he outwardly voiced his love, support, empathy and acceptance of Muslim Americans.

Then the unthinkable happend. Good ol' Colin Powell.
Answering a question about Mr. Obama's faith, Mr. Powell said: "Well, the correct answer is he is not a Muslim, he’s a Christian. He’s always been a Christian. But the really right answer is, what if he is? Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country?”
That made me wanna pat the man on the back. A Republican, formerly a part of the Bush administration, told America that Muslims are not necessiarily the poision that they are painted to be. Okay, maybe not in those particular words. But, it felt nice.
Now, I have to admit. When I first heard Mr. Powell say that, I thought to myself, "Hmm..this seems to be a calculated response, strategically placed for Mr. Powell to say something Obama can't. And since Powell had at this point already endorsed Obama, it could be taken as Obama's viewpoint too. Instead he wouldn't get the *Gasp! A terrorist supporter* response for it. "
But there's my cyncial side once again. It could or could not be the case.

So, although we may not hear "Muslim Americans, America feels your struggles" anytime soon, I'm not going to hate President Elect Barack Obama for it. Don't wanna raise my expactions too high. I'm happy enough that his middle name wasn't made into too much of an obstacle for him. For now, let's just pretend the Elephant in the room doesn't exist; the Donkey JUST made its way in, and people are loving it.

Don't OD on the race card!

2008-11-06T15:39:00.000-08:00

The dawn of a new era has settled upon us. As millions of viewers tuned in to witness a historical moment in our history when Barack Obama was elected as the president of the United States of America, millions more shed tears of pure exhilarated joy that finally, after years of struggle, a Black man made his way into the White House and into the most powerful position of not only the very country where the last lynching took place less than 30 years ago, but the world.

But how much is too much? It seems that every station I tune in to, every paper I read through, every headline I glance over, reads something to the effect of: "Barack Obama: First African American president in the U.S." or "The first Black man in U.S. history as president." The recurring statements just keep on coming. Whether its through the excited voices of African Americans proclaiming their pride or in running commentaries headlining Obama's race. I very much agree with something former Republican Secretary of State Colin Powell said in an interview with CNN saying that "President-elect Obama is going to be a president for all of America", although he happens to be Black. I like that. "Happens to be Black". We, as a people, cannot be confused. Mr. Obama was not running as a Black president, he ran as a President. Plain and simple. The only way the U.S. can break free of the racial divide that has become so embedded in society is to quit the labeling. It's easier said than done, I know. But it gets a little much when I see the ample exposure that is just NOW being shed on the fact that the President-Elect is...BLACK! CNN International, God love them, did a whole piece on it. Went to the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial in Atlanta, Georgia. Interviewed various African Americans, devoted a lot of time to honor the struggle that was endured in this long journey for Black people in America.
.....really?! Come on. I don't want to sound cynical, but where was all this pre-Obama? Did it JUST dawn on someone that slavery was outlawed, like, less than 50 years ago?! I'm going on a tangent, but if you, me, the media, African Americans, Caucasians, want to celebrate the victory of Mr. Obama, fine. But please, PLEASE don't celebrate it on account that he is Black. That does not, I repeat, DOES NOT, mean that he will be a wonderful leader. And it's going to backfire. It's going to perpetuate the color divide among us. We cannot focus on that, Mr. Rupert Murdoch, or whoever controls the media.
And to my fellow Black people (I'm saying Black, not only African Americans), do not linger in this aspect. Do not, please, over dose on the race card. It is indeed a fantastic, joyous occasion that America could look beyond color in electing their president, but do not show that that is the ONLY thing you are proud of. He will be president of the UNITED States of America. It's not "President-elect Obama, welcome to the Black House!" It's not "We got a BLACK man in charge now", no. Let's not walk 50 years back mentally; let's see this victory for what it truly is, an EDUCATED, FORWARD-THINKING, DEDICATED, HUMBLE, INSPIRING leader has been elected.....who just happens to be Black.

Definition: Obamania [o-bah-mey-nee-yuh] : noun

2008-11-06T06:10:00.000-08:00

Obamania : (n).; used to describe the intense emotions that are associated with Barack Obama's election as president of the U.S.A.

The response was indescribable. Dancing in the streets, singing, celebrating. Festivites of all kinds. An article published on the New York Times Politics Blog The Caucus Blog listed various reactions observed from around the globe. From the renown city of Obama's late father -Kisimu, Kenya:

"Thousands of people sang, danced, blew whistles, honked horns, hugged, kissed and thumped on drums — all down the same streets where not so long ago huge flames of protest had raged.“Who needs a passport?” people yelled. “We’re going to America!”

to the U.A.E.:

“I want Obama to win with 99 percent, like Saddam Hussein,” said Hani Abu Ayyash, who was monitoring the early returns at his computer. “I swear, if he doesn’t win, I’m going to take it personally.”

to India:

"At the American Center nearby, where big screen television monitors broadcast news of the election, Sukanya Bhardwaj, 19, a college student studying politics, said Obama’s victory was testament to the candidate’s abilities but also to the maturity of American voters. “It has become the greatest democracy,” she said. “It has proved it is ready for a black president.”

and even Venezuala:

“Pull up a seat, we’re celebrating tonight,” said Mr. Cisneros, 37, opening a bottle of Blender’s Pride whiskey. He poured the spirit into plastic cups, mixed in some orange juice, and declared to his guests, “The United States is choosing a black man as its president. Maybe we can share a bit in this happiness.”

The list goes on to continue places like Indoensia, Iraq, Germany, the little town of Obama, Japan, and some of my personal observations from Sudan.

The world has been hit and hit HARD by this wave of Obamania. But, like with every extreme flush of sentiment, or, in this case, hysteria, there's the after-affect, the hangover, the morning sickness, the groggyness, the slap of reality.

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not pessimistic nor am I trying to subdue the overwhelming sense of excitment and pride taking over so many communities. I just want to reflect on something.

Obama being elected is great news, its exhilirating. The first African American president in U.S. history, the change from the 8 years of disaster before him, the change all together. There's a lot of positive aspects one can look at.

However, I'm worried.

Let's look at this a little closer: The hype has intensified to levels I did not know existed. There is this united force of accomplishment across the board. People are excited. But are expectations being set a little too high? The reactions compiled by the NY Times show an array of responses, all hopeful. Mr. Obama has his work cut out for him. The level of expectations have been set to another level, one that may be a little unrealstic. Some are calling him the messiah, expecting him to deliver us from the catastrophes of this world. Others referring to him as the "answer to all" - the Palestinan/Israeli conflict, the Iraq war, the economy, reparing the damaged image of America across the world. He is in fact walking into a very challenging situation - 2 wars and a downspiraling economy, not a very attractive pair. Let's just hope the mania doesn't over cloud people's good judgement and force them to believe that the young senator from Chicago is a miracle-worker.

So, I guess in the meantime, I'm going to have to entertain myself with the 1000+ Facebook status' proclaiming their love for Obama until the Obamania begins to phase out and it's back to the regular "So-and-so is studying" and "so-and-so hates you for breakin up with me"

The reason I started to transcribe the flow

2008-11-06T05:35:00.000-08:00

November 5th, 6:10a.m.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

My alarm was ringing incessantly in my ear. I got up in a shock wave of what seemed to be a mix of excitement, anticipation, uncertainty, all wrapped up with the distinct sense of exhaustion. Never was much of a morning person. But on this morning, my grumpiness did not have the opportunity to stand center stage. I, along with the rest of the world, was going to discover who was the elected president of the United States of America for 2009.
I sat in my living room, AC set on high blast, droning on and on in the background. The hot Saudi sun was already up, sizzling away for the country to take in. I sat alone that morning, and switched on to the extensive live coverage of the election on CNN international. The announcement came between 7:45 and 8a.m. Barack Obama is the President Elect for the United States of America. I jumped up in sheer delight. I even let out a "yes!" throughout the quietness of my home. It was a strange feeling. I'm not American, I wasn't born there, I didn't spend a lot of my life there, I don't even know the 50 states by heart. But I was quite proud of the Americans. Then the commentary started. Not the panel of experts that sit around and discuss and provide their powerful insight and engage in stimulating conversations. The running commentary that goes through my head. I had so much to say, so much to discuss, so much to reflect on. I would rely on the late hours of the night, midnight my time, so 4pm D.C. time, when my friends would sign in online and we could chat endlessly about this and that. I even found myself picking conversations at work with people who did not necessarily care about the results. Nor did they understand why I was so amped by something that did not even involve me. I needed to express myself, to share, to listen and be heard.

Then I decided to take this flow of ideas that this election hype had fueled, and begin to blog.