| For Immediate Release: American Arab Forum Arab American leaders seek Governor's direct involvement in community issues Contact, Aref Assaf 973-960-2673 Paterson, NJ , March 29, 2006: The American Arab Forum, AAF, joined several representatives from other Arab American organizations in a one hour meeting with New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine. While, the main imputes of the meeting was the matter of Sami Merhi, a life long Democrat who was removed by his own Party from the slate of candidates for Freeholder in Passaic, NJ, AAF addressed several issues of relevance to other Arab American community and were on the Governor's agenda for a while. AAF President Aref Assaf implored the Governor, both as the titular leader of the Democratic Party and the Governor of the State, to exert every effort to restore the honor and humanity of Mr. Merhi and that of the besieged Arab American community. For Merhi to refuse the submit to the onslaught on his character is a shinning example of another Rosa Park, the immortal Black woman, whose simple action gave birth to the Civil Rights movement. " Governor, We are all Rosa Parks, We are Sami Merhi." said Mr. Assaf. "Sami has been subjugated to a cruel political lynching which will reverberate beyond New Jersey and ,if not confronted, may give rise to ethnic tensions between American Arabs and American Jews. Mr. Assaf added, "However, Sami's resilience and desire to clear his name is an example of the good citizen who is not only seeking his rights be respected but to be given an opportunity to serve his country." We believe the Governor has heard our grievances loudly and passionately. We also believe he appreciated our desire to be part of the recommended solution. We also believe he will soon act upon our proposed initiatives which were outlined in AAF's official statement at the meeting. Of special concern is AAF's initiative to establish the NJ Arab and Muslim Heritage Commission. The universality of human dignity and the application of the full protection of the law to all must remain our enduring guide. This is the country we wish for ourselves and our children. End. Related: |
