Navigate

Archived Items

22.09.09

From social injustice to health, wealth & wellbeing for all in the NW' - Open Space Event - Wigan 20th October

What's it about?

Closing the gap between the health and wellbeing of those who are the most and the least well off in our communities in the North West has proved difficult even when the financial environment appeared more favourable than it is now. Many of the decisions taken in the past have inadvertently created some of the health problems that we face today. So closing this gap in a generation is a major challenge.

Tackling these challenges is not only a matter of social justice as described by the Global Commission on the social determinants of health, but is crucial for building a solid, sustainable economy with a healthy workforce and functioning, capable, self-reliant communities. These are not just issues for the North West but affect the whole country, although not to the same degree as in some parts of the North West. In December 2009 a major national review on how to close the health gap in a generation will produce its recommendations. (See http://www.ucl.ac.uk/gheg/marmotreview) The commitment in the North West is to feed into this review and, importantly, to hit the ground running with implementing its conclusions. If there is to be real and sustained change, a radical rethink is required, based on maximum participation from everyone with something to contribute and on creating new conversations about how best to work together. People involved so far in planning for this event are asking:

How do we involve the whole community to enjoy life and live longer?
How can we give every child born in the North West the best possible start?
How can we support public demand for social justice?
How can we best beat the impact of the recession?
How do we move from theory and evidence about the gap to realistic local action?

We want to find the people in the North West who want to make a difference to health inequalities, help to connect them and ensure that we have used the latest evidence to MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

How do I book a place?

In case of technical difficulty contact

Pam Wright: Pam@nwconferences.co.uk

[ Download From Social Injustice Event ]

08.09.2009

CONVERSATIONS

Tuesday 22nd September 2009
6pm to 9pm
URBIS, Manchester City Centre
For any, and all, young people

The event is free including a freestyle buffet and open to all aged 15 to 20 of any faith or none

For more information contact:
david@fn4m.org or jonny@fn4m.org
Tel or text Max: 07517 888724
www.fn4m.org

An opportunity to directly talk with other
young people about your faith identity and
how it influences your view of the world.

What does the election of Fascist MEPs mean to you?
How do you view the MPs expenses scandal?
Do adults treat young people with enough respect?
Do you get turned on by faith,or not?
Do youth services provide what you and your friends need?
What other issues are you passionate about?
Faith Youth Manchester is the youth branch of Faith Network 4
Manchester(FN4M),giving voice to the concerns of young people across
our city.

We are young people from different faiths, organising fun events to
bridgethegapsbetweenyoungsters.

www.fn4m.org
Facebook: Faith Youth Manchester

02.09.2009

ANNE FRANK [ + You] exhibition

at Manchester Cathedral

The exhibition opens to the public on Friday September 4 and runs until Monday 28 September. Admission is Free

General opening hours:

Monday - Friday 1000 - 1600
Saturday 1000 - 1230
Sunday 1300 - 1600

Before making a special journey, please check the Manchester Cathedral website www.manchestercathedral.org to ensure that you will be able to access the exhibition, or telephone 0161 833 2220 to check opening times.

16.07.2009

Vacancy at Lancashire Forum of Faiths

for more information please follow the link below

[ Download Coordinator LFOF ]

24.06.09

Islam and the Environment Seminar, please click below for more details.

[ Download Islam and the Environment Seminar ]

17.06.09

F A I T H B A S E D

FbRN

R E G E N E R AT I O N

N E T W O R K u k

The Faith Based Regeneration Network UK is the leading national multi faith network for community development and regeneration.

www.fbrn.org.uk

16 June 2009

E-Bulletin

Please remember to check all event and job details with the relevant organisations. Whilst care is taken to pass on correct information mistakes can happen and plans may change. FbRN has no control over the cost of events organised by others.

Dear Colleagues

The FbRN National Conference report is now available to read or download on our website www.fbrn.org.uk. You will also find videos of the three speakers: Sadiq Khan MP, Mohammed Abdul Bari and Stewart Etherington. Sadiq Khan has now moved on to be Minister of Transport and has been replaced by Shahid Malik MP.

This bulletin contains some funding news, some jobs, interesting projects developing in Yorkshire and a unique football match happening tonight in Leicester. I have included it here as an example of faiths together..

I hope you find something to interest you in this bulletin. Don't forget to let me know what's going on in your area.

Val Rushton

Networking and Administration Officer

The Home Office have launched a new fund to increase home security and reduce burglary rates. They have retained the bulk of the money (£6m) in a general fund called the Safer Homes Fund. Community Matters are encouraging their members and other Voluntary and community sector organisations to make application to this fund for revenue grants of between £10k and £100k for 12 months. For further information and support with your application, please contact Sarah Bishton at Community Matters, Tel: 0207 837 7883, sarah.bishton@communitymatters.org.uk

Online application now open for Modernisation Fund Grants Programme

The online application for grants from the Real Help for Communities: Modernisation Fund, is now open.

Between now and 17 July, frontline third sector organisations with an annual turnover of between £150,000 and £750,000 are invited to apply for a £1,000 bursary from the Modernisation Fund Grants Programme which is being delivered by Capacitybuilders. NB: First awards to be made w/c 15 June.

Using their bursary, organisations will be able to buy at least two days of advice and support to explore how they can become more resilient and work more closely with others, including through collaboration or merger.

From the Autumn, £10,000 grants will be available to help organisations that have gone through Phase One of the programme and would like to take further significant steps towards collaboration or merger. To find out more and apply online, please visit the Modernisation website.

http://www.capacitybuilders.org.uk/content/ModernisationFund.aspx

KIRKLEES FAITH FORUM

Introducing STEPS, a new women's project!

STEPS project is a tool to give women the opportunity to build their skills and become active participants in both their communities and wider society.

The project has three elements to it:

Training and workshops - such as assertiveness training, leadership skills, and talks from inspirational women from up and down the country.

Activities - such as cookery courses, or IT - opportunities to

learn practical and useful life skills.

Forums - safe spaces for debate and dialogue, to come together

and have a voice in the important debates going on in society today.

If you, or any women you know, are interested please get in touch with

fakhararehman@kirklees.gov.uk

or Fakhara Rehman and Hanna Taylor 01924 324 836

A Unique Football Multi Faith Match: Leicester Vs Gothenburg

Christians and Muslims from Leicester pioneered the idea of a cricket match between Imams and Clergy on 11th of September three years ago and the match has now become an annual feature. It must be the first in the cricket world, the two teams comprising Christian Clergy and Imams of Leicester have faced each other at the crease in the popular Twenty/20 format.

However this year several other faith groups and agencies have come together to take part in a unique football match with their European partners from Gothenburg, Sweden at 7.00 pm on Tuesday 16 June 2009 at Spinney Hill Park on East Park Road, Leicester LE5 5GY. This builds upon other inter faith football matches, such as that witnessed by HRH Prince Charles at St Philip's Centre in February 2008.

This good practice of organising sports events has communicated a message of hope and the possibility of living side by side as friends, even though tension and misunderstanding are also part of life in diverse communities.

The Mayor of Leicester is due to attend together with a host of other dignitaries both from Leicester, Leicestershire and their counterparts from Gothenburg. These civic leaders will join the Bishop of Gothenburg to support their team, and over 30 visitors will spend three days in Leicester, experiencing the diverse life of the city and its faiths. The organisers of the event are inviting the citizens of Leicester and beyond to watch this significant sporting event.

See more at http://www.fbrn.org.uk/news

For more information:

Telephone St Philip's Centre on 0116 2733459.

National Conference for churches and all involved in action on homelessness

Thursday 18th June 2009 10.00 - 4.00

St Paul's Robert Adam Street, London W1U 3HW

£25.00 each includes lunch

call 020 7723 7273 or info@housingjustice.org.uk

Get linked up with the network of churches and others involved in practical action to respond to the needs of those who are most vulnerable and displaced in our society. The day will be a mix of presentations, discussions, seminars and a choice of workshops.

More details, including flier and booking form here

Charity Commission enews now available on http://www.charitycommission.gov.uk/tcc/ccnews29.asp

ENEWS EDITOR Volunteer Required to help produce enews .

Redbridge Faith Forum needs help to put their enews on a regular basis.

If you would like to help put it out, contact Saira Yakub 020 8708 2478/82445 saira.yakub@redbridge.gov.uk

An Interfaith Development Officer at Bradford Cathedral

Synergy @ Bradford Cathedral is a new project seeking an interfaith development officer (IDO) to work with Cathedral staff to enable interfaith dialogue on a range of topical and challenging issues that will deepen understanding between faiths and enhance civic resilience in the city.

This work will be particularly, but not exclusively, focused on women and young people, and so applications from women of all faiths will be especially welcome. We have Faiths in Action funding, and are currently applying for further funding.

On the basis of funding already received, the post will be part-time and hours will be flexible, with a total of 840 hours from September 1st 2009 to March 31st 2011 at £8.57 per hour.

Further details are available from

Canon Frances Ward, Synergy @ Bradford Cathedral, Stott Hill, Bradford BD1 4EH

fefward@btinternet.com 01274 777720

Please return a CV and hard copy application by Friday 26th June.

Shortlisting: July 1st. Interview Date: Thursday 9th July.

Black neighbourhood Renewal and Regeneration Network

seeking Community Engagement Officer £29,421

and Policy & Information Officer £29,421

For an information pack please contact Symone Robinson on 020 8981 3003

or symone@bnrrn.org.uk

application deadline 30th June 4pm

Best wishes

Val Rushton

Network Development & Administration Officer
Faith Based Regeneration Network
Kensington Charity Centre, 4th Floor Charles House, 375 Kensington High Street, London W14 8QH.
Tel: 020 7471 6791; Fax: 020 7471 6793
Email: valr@fbrn.org.uk: www.fbrn.org.uk
FbRN : the leading multi faith network for community development & regeneration is a company limited by guarantee no. 5028047 and a registered charity, no. 1107076

15.06.09

Repair Grants for Places of Worship in England

Please click on Download below for more information:

[ Download Repair Grants for Places of Worship in England ]

15.06.09 Please click on Download below for more information:

[ Download Repair Grants for Places of Worship in England ]

15.06.09

Christian and Muslim Coffee Fanatics

Lorna Young Foundation and the Oromo Coffee Company (LYF and OCC). LYF is living proof that that we can change the world without relying on grant hand-outs. We have established a unique community-owned coffee trading enterprise connecting Oromo refugees in the UK with smallholder farmers in Oromia, Ethiopia shortening the supply chain, keeping profits for both communities. LYF's aim is to reduce poverty, promote ethical trading and assist sustainable livelihoods through providing business education for smallholder farmers in the developing world, shortening supply chains and enabling them to compete. We initiated, developed and are project managing the 'The Oromo Coffee Company' social enterprise -the first ever UK 'community to community direct trading of coffee' venture that assists refugee communities living in the UK.

Why help the Oromos?

250 refugee families recently came to the North West in the last few years via a UN Gateway Project and following human rights abuses inflicted upon them. The (locally based) LYF found out about their difficulties via St George's, Stalybridge who approached them to see if they could help. LYF learned that although fit for employment, it was impossible for the Oromos to access work and due to experiences in Ethiopia, the community's collective self-esteem was very low. LYF suggested a self-help project, utilising their links with Oromo coffee growers in Ethiopia.

'The Oromo Coffee Company' (OCC) was established in partnership with a local authority and community groups. LYF approached a coffee roasting business which agreed to provide mentoring, sourcing and coffee roasting and the initial coffee as a Corporate Social Responsibility donation. They then began to source other 'in kind' support. The result is a new model of social enterprise that connects grassroot communities in the UK with developing countries via ethical trading practices, raises awareness and demonstrates that the wider community can benefit from such initiatives.

How was this funded?

There was no funding or budget at the beginning of the project; LYF is a small charity and has no core funding. LYF feels strongly that charitable overheads should be kept to a minimum; and are therefore regionally based, do not waste money on self-promotion, unnecessary trips abroad or glossy reports and materials. LYF had confidence that ethically aware consumers have been looking for a new and innovative product for some time and so began the work to convince local businesses and third sector organisations to either provide pro-bono or in-kind support donations. LYF provided in-kind project development and management; business start up for the OCC came via a small grant from Tameside Council; the OCC's office was provided rent-free indefinitely by North West Interpreters Ltd; the initial coffee batches and roasting was provided for free by Bolling Coffee (with further amounts at a reduced rate); company logo, coffee packaging and initial website was donated by 'AsOne' a local design company; computers, software and stationery were donated by individuals and busines= mentoring and workplace skills were provided by local volunteers and entrepreneurs. The OCC's coffee was launched at Parliament via the backing of the Minister for Work and Pensions and only after the company had begun operations did we receive a tiny 'mustard seed' grant from the Church Urban Fund.

So what's the Christian-Muslim connection?

Perhaps you have been wondering why the LYF has been asked to contribute this article to the Forum's website? [I attended the launch - Ed] It is an interesting paradox that in all truth, faith practices have simply not been an issue in what has actually been a joint-faith initiative! The Oromo community members are 50/50 practicing Christian or Muslims. As Christians and Muslims who regularly attend places of worship and who are separately involved in their own faith groups, the OCC has demonstrated a fascinating example of how a community can become 'faith blind' in its desire to work together to create a better future for themselves and to help poor farmers in Ethiopia. At the outset of an Oromo community meeting, a prayer is offered up that meets the spiritual needs of all present. But rather than the western tendency to 'not give offence' and therefore watering down the power and meaning of the moment, the Oromo community have simply focussed on the best way to include everyone. The underlying premise of the collective community when it comes to differing religious practices seems to be 'slow to take offence'. Surely something we can all learn from.

The interest of faith and community groups in this enterprise are pivotal to its success. Religious groups proved themselves to be crucial in supporting Fair Trade in its early days, until it broke into the supermarkets and become mainstream (thanks to Lorna Young herself!) Many churches, mosques and third sector organisations now support ethical trading, but the OCC is going that extra, more radical mile - ensuring a better deal for producers, whilst at the same time, helping a local refugee community.

What can we do to help?

So what can you, as an individual or as a group, do to help? Well, the obvious answer is to buy the coffee! Even if you aren't a big coffee drinker, then you surely know someone who would appreciate a bag of the latest, top-quality variety. Outlets stocking the coffee are increasing daily but we also encourage faith groups to come together as a syndicate to bulk purchase and then share. This is a fantastic opportunity for faith groups to come together and to hook into something that they can all have in common. Similarly, faith groups might want to organise an Oromo Coffee Morning, or even coffee-tasting sessions (Glossop Central Methodists were the first to host such an event, followed closely by Altrincham Islamic Centre). Finally, the OCC are still in need of volunteers to help deliver leaflets to local shops/delis and people who possess skills such as fundraising, marketing and promotion etc.

LYF and the OCC have created a very 'high-end' Fairtrade certified coffee. Those who buy this coffee will pay a little more than the supermarket branded Fairtrade certified coffees. The reason for the extra 50p - Â£1 is for two very good reasons: 1) you will be drinking an extremely high quality of coffee bean which is far superior to most supermarket coffees and 2) OCC coffee ensures that the profits go to helping two communities â€" both here in the UK and in Ethiopia.

http://www.oromocoffee.org/ (price list can be obtained by emailing office@oromo.org and cc'ing in projectmanager@lyf.org.uk or calling 0161 339 7865). Please bear in mind that all of the Oromo staff are undertaking on-the-job training so your patience and forbearance will be highly valued.

Written by Christina Longden, The Lorna Young Foundation, tel: 07538 690072 Posted by Julian Bond
Christian and Muslim Coffee Fanatics

Christian Muslim Forum
70 South Lambeth Road
Vauxhall
London
SW8 1RL

Telephone 0207 840 5818

http://www.christianmuslimforum.org/
Join our mailing list
Make a donation

Company Registration 5461960
Registered Charity 1114793

08.06.09

NOAH'S ARK ON THE LEEDS - LIVERPOOL CANAL

Who are we? The Justice and Peace Commission of the Archdiocese of Liverpool, in partnership with CAFOD and Faiths For Change, are organising a round trip along the Leeds - Liverpool canal from 19th June to 10th July to raise awareness of environmental issues.

What's happening? Noah and wife and family (look-alikes) are spending three weeks afloat. They've returned to ask us what sort of world the next generations will inherit.

Why the Ark? As the original eco-heroes, who took the right action at the right time, the Noahs are asking people they meet to do something and to escape from doom and gloom-mongering and get on board to create a climate for justice.

He told us:"Do not respond to global warming out of fear or guilt, but because the creation is for sharing and we are all called to action that will nurture and protect it."

Why a journey? We're on water which is the stuff of life. Water is 70% of our bodies. Our slow journey will let us reach people, taking time, allowing time to talk with people along the way, instead of our usual headlong rush. This time we're not zooming along the M62 at 70mph. The journey will give time to reflect and re-engage with our environment, a chance to buy local produce and to eat slow food. It is a chance to celebrate the beauty of our countryside. A chance to live simply.

Why the Leeds - Liverpool canal? Where else could we go? The canal winds through the middle of the north west of England, linking us with our past as well as with places. This journey aims to be symbolic, to raise political awareness, to give a chance for community building: the Ark represents our planet, our home and within it, it contains the whole spectrum of life which is threatened by the prospect of runaway climate change. Although organised by faith groups, it is a powerful, transcendent image that is capable of appeal to a wide set of individuals and green groups. The Noahs will be stopping to meet with groups on most days as well and talking to people along the way.

Interested?? To find out more call 0151 522 1080 or 0151228 4028 or email s.atherton @rcaol.co.uk
Help us get environmental issues at the centre of the UK political agenda prior to the negotiations in Dec 2009.

The J&P Commission seeks to increase awareness of national and international justice issues in Liverpool Archdiocese.
CAFOD is an agency of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales.
Faiths4Change is an environmental organisation working with faith communities across North West England.

DATE

TRAVELLING THROUGH
EVENING MOORING FROM 6PM Events may not start till later. Ring for more info. - if you want to know where we are so you can meet us please phone. We would welcome visitors anytime PHONE
Nos
Friday 19th Local supporters will send us off at Barnoldswick.
Gargrave
Info needed
Saturday 20th Silsden
Info needed
Sunday 21st Bingley 5 Rise. Lunch Picnic at the locks - bring your own Saltaire
Evening event at the URC church Info needed
Monday 22nd
Rodley Boat Centre Info needed
Tuesday 23rd Granary Wharf - Office Lock Info needed
Wednesday 24th Info needed
Thursday 25th Silsden Info needed
Friday 26th CREW CHANGE OVER Barnoldswick
0752 370 6464
Saturday
27th June Foulridge Wharf
Drop-in at Cargo Café on the canal.
0752 370 6464
Sunday
28th June Burnley
'Faiths for Change' Community travel event Church, near Accrington
0752 370 6464
Monday
29th June Blackburn and Chorley.
Come and help with the locks at Johnson Top Lock. Please phone for time. White Bear Marina Café in Adlington from 6-9pm.
Come on board the Ark to learn about Live Simply then visit the café to hear about local versions of 'Reduce ~ Re-use ~ Recycle' 0752 370 6464

Tuesday
30th June Haigh Plantations
Wigan Top Lock
Bring your picnic and a deck chair to meet Colin from Transition Town Wigan 6pm onwards 0752 370 6464

Wednesday 1 July Come and help with the 21 Wigan Locks. Please phone on the day for exact time. Crooke
Quiz in the Crooke Hall Inn in the evening 7.30
Great Prizes 0752 370 6464

Thursday 2 July Parbold and Burscough.
Recycling event with Our Lady's Primary School. (Invitation only) Mooring as near as possible to the Running Horse pub in Lydiate. Come and join Noah to voice your environmental concerns 0752 370 6464

Friday 3rd July Leaving Hancocks Swing Bridge at 7.45 and being accompanied by British Waterways to the Eldonians CREW CHANGEOVER
Eldonian Village Hall. Licensed bar
Comedy Night hosted by Silky. Bring a joke to share and recycle. 8pm 0784 370 8188
Saturday
4th July The 'Ark' will be travelling into Salthouse Dock during the morning. Merseyside and Region Global Justice Information Network (MARGJIN) meeting with Ed Milliband at Liverpool Town Hall in the morning * Marine biology of the dock system. Liverpool World Museum (time tbc)
* Annual Contacts Day meeting
at Our Lady & St Nicholas 1pm - 4 pm
* First Mass of Sunday at Our Lady of Reconciliation. 6 pm
* Eldonian Village Hall. Licensed bar. Come and join in an Evening of cultural dances from around the world. From 7.30 0784 370 8188
Sunday 5 July The Ark will be leaving Salthouse Dock between 8.30 - 11.30 and returning to Eldonian Village.
11.00 Mass at St Sylvester's The Ark will be moored at the Eldonians from lunchtime until Monday morning

Come and meet Mr and Mrs Noah and friends during the afternoon and talk about living simply.

Pick up an information pack about an Environmental Audit 0784 370 8188
Monday 6 July Out of Liverpool Parbold 0784 370 8188
Tuesday 7 July Aiming to get through the locks at Wigan before nightfall. 21 Wigan Locks.
Come and help operate the locks We aim to get to Chorley this evening and moor at
Johnson Top Lock 0784 370 8188
Wednesday 8th July Johnsons Hillock Mooring at Barden Mill. St Augustine's High School bringing a swing band from 6 - 8pm. 0784 370 8188
Thursday 9 July We aim to get back to Barnoldswick this eve. 0784 370 8188
Friday 10 July Return to Barnoldswick for 9 am

05.06.09

President Obama's Cairo Speech
05.06.09 President Obama's Cairo Speech

June 4, 2009

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT

ON A NEW BEGINNING

Cairo University

Cairo, Egypt

1:10 P.M. (Local)

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Thank you very much. Good afternoon. I am honored to be in the timeless city of Cairo, and to be hosted by two remarkable institutions. For over a thousand years, Al-Azhar has stood as a beacon of Islamic learning; and for over a century, Cairo University has been a source of Egypt's advancement. And together, you represent the harmony between tradition and progress. I'm grateful for your hospitality, and the hospitality of the people of Egypt. And I'm also proud to carry with me the goodwill of the American people, and a greeting of peace from Muslim communities in my country: Assalaamu alaykum. (Applause.)

We meet at a time of great tension between the United States and Muslims around the world -- tension rooted in historical forces that go beyond any current policy debate. The relationship between Islam and the West includes centuries of coexistence and cooperation, but also conflict and religious wars. More recently, tension has been fed by colonialism that denied rights and opportunities to many Muslims, and a Cold War in which Muslim-majority countries were too often treated as proxies without regard to their own aspirations. Moreover, the sweeping change brought by modernity and globalization led many Muslims to view the West as hostile to the traditions of Islam.

Violent extremists have exploited these tensions in a small but potent minority of Muslims. The attacks of September 11, 2001 and the continued efforts of these extremists to engage in violence against civilians has led some in my country to view Islam as inevitably hostile not only to America and Western countries, but also to human rights. All this has bred more fear and more mistrust.

So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace, those who promote conflict rather than the cooperation that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity. And this cycle of suspicion and discord must end.

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.

I do so recognizing that change cannot happen overnight. I know there's been a lot of publicity about this speech, but no single speech can eradicate years of mistrust, nor can I answer in the time that I have this afternoon all the complex questions that brought us to this point. But I am convinced that in order to move forward, we must say openly to each other the things we hold in our hearts and that too often are said only behind closed doors. There must be a sustained effort to listen to each other; to learn from each other; to respect one another; and to seek common ground. As the Holy Koran tells us, "Be conscious of God and speak always the truth." (Applause.) That is what I will try to do today -- to speak the truth as best I can, humbled by the task before us, and firm in my belief that the interests we share as human beings are far more powerful than the forces that drive us apart.

Now part of this conviction is rooted in my own experience. I'm a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and at the fall of dusk. As a young man, I worked in Chicago communities where many found dignity and peace in their Muslim faith.

As a student of history, I also know civilization's debt to Islam. It was Islam -- at places like Al-Azhar -- that carried the light of learning through so many centuries, paving the way for Europe's Renaissance and Enlightenment. It was innovation in Muslim communities -- (applause) -- it was innovation in Muslim communities that developed the order of algebra; our magnetic compass and tools of navigation; our mastery of pens and printing; our understanding of how disease spreads and how it can be healed. Islamic culture has given us majestic arches and soaring spires; timeless poetry and cherished music; elegant calligraphy and places of peaceful contemplation. And throughout history, Islam has demonstrated through words and deeds the possibilities of religious tolerance and racial equality. (Applause.)

I also know that Islam has always been a part of America's story. The first nation to recognize my country was Morocco. In signing the Treaty of Tripoli in 1796, our second President, John Adams, wrote, "The United States has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion or tranquility of Muslims." And since our founding, American Muslims have enriched the United States. They have fought in our wars, they have served in our government, they have stood for civil rights, they have started businesses, they have taught at our universities, they've excelled in our sports arenas, they've won Nobel Prizes, built our tallest building, and lit the Olympic Torch. And when the first Muslim American was recently elected to Congress, he took the oath to defend our Constitution using the same Holy Koran that one of our Founding Fathers -- Thomas Jefferson -- kept in his personal library. (Applause.)

So 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. (Applause.)

But that same principle must apply to Muslim perceptions of America. (Applause.) Just as Muslims do not fit a crude stereotype, America is not the crude stereotype of a self-interested empire. The United States has been one of the greatest sources of progress that the world has ever known. We were born out of revolution against an empire. We were founded upon the ideal that all are created equal, and we have shed blood and struggled for centuries to give meaning to those words -- within our borders, and around the world. We are shaped by every culture, drawn from every end of the Earth, and dedicated to a simple concept: E pluribus unum -- "Out of many, one."

Now, much has been made of the fact that an African American with the name Barack Hussein Obama could be elected President. (Applause.) But my personal story is not so unique. The dream of opportunity for all people has not come true for everyone in America, but its promise exists for all who come to our shores -- and that includes nearly 7 million American Muslims in our country today who, by the way, enjoy incomes and educational levels that are higher than the American average. (Applause.)

Moreover, freedom in America is indivisible from the freedom to practice one's religion. That is why there is a mosque in every state in our union, and over 1,200 mosques within our borders. That's why the United States government has gone to court to protect the right of women and girls to wear the hijab and to punish those who would deny it. (Applause.)

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.

Of course, recognizing our common humanity is only the beginning of our task. Words alone cannot meet the needs of our people. These needs will be met only if we act boldly in the years ahead; and if we understand that the challenges we face are shared, and our failure to meet them will hurt us all.

For we have learned from recent experience that when a financial system weakens in one country, prosperity is hurt everywhere. When a new flu infects one human being, all are at risk. When one nation pursues a nuclear weapon, the risk of nuclear attack rises for all nations. When violent extremists operate in one stretch of mountains, people are endangered across an ocean. When innocents in Bosnia and Darfur are slaughtered, that is a stain on our collective conscience. (Applause.) That is what it means to share this world in the 21st century. That is the responsibility we have to one another as human beings.

And this is a difficult responsibility to embrace. For human history has often been a record of nations and tribes -- and, yes, religions -- subjugating one another in pursuit of their own interests. Yet in this new age, such attitudes are self-defeating. Given our interdependence, any world order that elevates one nation or group of people over another will inevitably fail. So whatever we think of the past, we must not be prisoners to it. Our problems must be dealt with through partnership; our progress must be shared. (Applause.)

Now, that does not mean we should ignore sources of tension. Indeed, it suggests the opposite: We must face these tensions squarely. And so in that spirit, let me speak as clearly and as plainly as I can about some specific issues that I believe we must finally confront together.

The first issue that we have to confront is violent extremism in all of its forms.

In Ankara, I made clear that America is not -- and never will be -- at war with Islam. (Applause.) We will, however, relentlessly confront violent extremists who pose a grave threat to our security -- because we reject the same thing that people of all faiths reject: the killing of innocent men, women, and children. And it is my first duty as President to protect the American people.

The situation in Afghanistan demonstrates America's goals, and our need to work together. Over seven years ago, the United States pursued al Qaeda and the Taliban with broad international support. We did not go by choice; we went because of necessity. I'm aware that there's still some who would question or even justify the events of 9/11. But let us be clear: Al Qaeda killed nearly 3,000 people on that day. The victims were innocent men, women and children from America and many other nations who had done nothing to harm anybody. And yet al Qaeda chose to ruthlessly murder these people, claimed credit for the attack, and even now states their determination to kill on a massive scale. They have affiliates in many countries and are trying to expand their reach. These are not opinions to be debated; these are facts to be dealt with.

Now, make no mistake: We do not want to keep our troops in Afghanistan. We see no military -- we seek no military bases there. It is agonizing for America to lose our young men and women. It is costly and politically difficult to continue this conflict. We would gladly bring every single one of our troops home if we could be confident that there were not violent extremists in Afghanistan and now Pakistan determined to kill as many Americans as they possibly can. But that is not yet the case.

And that's why we're partnering with a coalition of 46 countries. And despite the costs involved, America's commitment will not weaken. Indeed, none of us should tolerate these extremists. They have killed in many countries. They have killed people of different faiths -- but more than any other, they have killed Muslims. Their actions are irreconcilable with the rights of human beings, the progress of nations, and with Islam. The Holy Koran teaches that whoever kills an innocent is as -- it is as if he has killed all mankind. (Applause.) And the Holy Koran also says whoever saves a person, it is as if he has saved all mankind. (Applause.) The enduring faith of over a billion people is so much bigger than the narrow hatred of a few. Islam is not part of the problem in combating violent extremism -- it is an important part of promoting peace.

Now, we also know that military power alone is not going to solve the problems in Afghanistan and Pakistan. That's why we plan to invest $1.5 billion each year over the next five years to partner with Pakistanis to build schools and hospitals, roads and businesses, and hundreds of millions to help those who've been displaced. That's why we are providing more than $2.8 billion to help Afghans develop their economy and deliver services that people depend on.

Let me also address the issue of Iraq. Unlike Afghanistan, Iraq was a war of choice that provoked strong differences in my country and around the world. Although I believe that the Iraqi people are ultimately better off without the tyranny of Saddam Hussein, I also believe that events in Iraq have reminded America of the need to use diplomacy and build international consensus to resolve our problems whenever possible. (Applause.) Indeed, we can recall the words of Thomas Jefferson, who said: "I hope that our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us that the less we use our power the greater it will be."

Today, America has a dual responsibility: to help Iraq forge a better future -- and to leave Iraq to Iraqis. And I have made it clear to the Iraqi people -- (applause) -- I have made it clear to the Iraqi people that wepursue no bases, and no claim on their territory or resources. Iraq's sovereignty is its own. And that's why I ordered the removal of our combat brigades by next August. That is why we will honor our agreement with Iraq's democratically elected government to remove combat troops from Iraqi cities by July, and to remove all of our troops from Iraq by 2012. (Applause.) We will help Iraq train its security forces and develop its economy. But we will support a secure and united Iraq as a partner, and never as a patron.

And finally, just as America can never tolerate violence by extremists, we must never alter or forget our principles. Nine-eleven was an enormous trauma to our country. The fear and anger that it provoked was understandable, but in some cases, it led us to act contrary to our traditions and our ideals. We are taking concrete actions to change course. I have unequivocally prohibited the use of torture by the United States, and I have ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed by early next year. (Applause.)

So America will defend itself, respectful of the sovereignty of nations and the rule of law. And we will do so in partnership with Muslim communities which are also threatened. The sooner the extremists are isolated and unwelcome in Muslim communities, the sooner we will all be safer.

The second major source of tension that we need to discuss is the situation between Israelis, Palestinians and the Arab world.

America's strong bonds with Israel are well known. This bond is unbreakable. It is based upon cultural and historical ties, and the recognition that the aspiration for a Jewish homeland is rooted in a tragic history that cannot be denied.

Around the world, the Jewish people were persecuted for centuries, and anti-Semitism in Europe culminated in an unprecedented Holocaust. Tomorrow, I will visit Buchenwald, which was part of a network of camps where Jews were enslaved, tortured, shot and gassed to death by the Third Reich. Six million Jews were killed -- more than the entire Jewish population of Israel today. Denying that fact is baseless, it is ignorant, and it is hateful. Threatening Israel with destruction -- or repeating vile stereotypes about Jews -- is deeply wrong, and only serves to evoke in the minds of Israelis this most painful of memories while preventing the peace that the people of this region deserve.

On the other hand, it is also undeniable that the Palestinian people -- Muslims and Christians -- have suffered in pursuit of a homeland. For more than 60 years they've endured the pain of dislocation. Many wait in refugee camps in the West Bank, Gaza, and neighboring lands for a life of peace and security that they have never been able to lead. They endure the daily humiliations -- large and small -- that come with occupation. So let there be no doubt: The situation for the Palestinian people is intolerable. And America will not turn our backs on the legitimate Palestinian aspiration for dignity, opportunity, and a state of their own. (Applause.)

For decades then, there has been a stalemate: two peoples with legitimate aspirations, each with a painful history that makes compromise elusive. It's easy to point fingers -- for Palestinians to point to the displacement brought about by Israel's founding, and for Israelis to point to the constant hostility and attacks throughout its history from within its borders as well as beyond. But if we see this conflict only from one side or the other, then we will be blind to the truth: The only resolution is for the aspirations of both sides to be met through two states, where Israelis and Palestinians each live in peace and security. (Applause.)

That is in Israel's interest, Palestine's interest, America's interest, and the world's interest. And that is why I intend to personally pursue this outcome with all the patience and dedication that the task requires. (Applause.) The obligations -- the obligations that the parties have agreed to under the road map are clear. For peace to come, it is time for them -- and all of us -- to live up to our responsibilities.

Palestinians must abandon violence. Resistance through violence and killing is wrong and it does not succeed. For centuries, black people in America suffered the lash of the whip as slaves and the humiliation of segregation. But it was not violence that won full and equal rights. It was a peaceful and determined insistence upon the ideals at the center of America's founding. This same story can be told by people from South Africa to South Asia; from Eastern Europe to Indonesia. It's a story with a simple truth: that violence is a dead end. It is a sign neither of courage nor power to shoot rockets at sleeping children, or to blow up old women on a bus. That's not how moral authority is claimed; that's how it is surrendered.

Now is the time for Palestinians to focus on what they can build. The Palestinian Authority must develop its capacity to govern, with institutions that serve the needs of its people. Hamas does have support among some Palestinians, but they also have to recognize they have responsibilities. To play a role in fulfilling Palestinian aspirations, to unify the Palestinian people, Hamas must put an end to violence, recognize past agreements, recognize Israel's right to exist.

At the same time, Israelis must acknowledge that just as Israel's right to exist cannot be denied, neither can Palestine's. The United States does not accept the legitimacy of continued Israeli settlements. (Applause.) This construction violates previous agreements and undermines efforts to achieve peace. It is time for these settlements to stop. (Applause.)

And Israel must also live up to its obligation to ensure that Palestinians can live and work and develop their society. Just as it devastates Palestinian families, the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza does not serveIsrael's security; neither does the continuing lack of opportunity in the West Bank. Progress in the daily lives of the Palestinian people must be a critical part of a road to peace, and Israel must take concrete steps to enable such progress.

And finally, the Arab states must recognize that the Arab Peace Initiative was an important beginning, but not the end of their responsibilities. The Arab-Israeli conflict should no longer be used to distract the people of Arab nations from other problems. Instead, it must be a cause for action to help the Palestinian people develop the institutions that will sustain their state, to recognize Israel's legitimacy, and to choose progress over a self-defeating focus on the past.

America will align our policies with those who pursue peace, and we will say in public what we say in private to Israelis and Palestinians and Arabs. (Applause.) We cannot impose peace. But privately, many Muslims recognize that Israel will not go away. Likewise, many Israelis recognize the need for a Palestinian state. It is time for us to act on what everyone knows to be true.

Too many tears have been shed. Too much blood has been shed. All of us have a responsibility to work for the day when the mothers of Israelis and Palestinians can see their children grow up without fear; when the Holy Land of the three great faiths is the place of peace that God intended it to be; when Jerusalem is a secure and lasting home for Jews and Christians and Muslims, and a place for all of the children of Abraham to mingle peacefully together as in the story of Isra -- (applause) -- as in the story of Isra, when Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed, peace be upon them, joined in prayer. (Applause.)

The third source of tension is our shared interest in the rights and responsibilities of nations on nuclear weapons.

This issue has been a source of tension between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. For many years, Iran has defined itself in part by its opposition to my country, and there is in fact a tumultuous history between us. In the middle of the Cold War, the United States played a role in the overthrow of a democratically elected Iranian government. Since the Islamic Revolution, Iran has played a role in acts of hostage-taking and violence against U.S. troops and civilians. This history is well known. Rather than remain trapped in the past, I've made it clear to Iran's leaders and people that my country is prepared to move forward. The question now is not what Iran is against, but rather what future it wants to build.

I recognize it will be hard to overcome decades of mistrust, but we will proceed with courage, rectitude, and resolve. There will be many issues to discuss between our two countries, and we are willing to move forward without preconditions on the basis of mutual respect. But it is clear to all concerned that when it comes to nuclear weapons, we have reached a decisive point. This is not simply about America's interests. It's about preventing a nuclear arms race in the Middle East that could lead this region and the world down a hugely dangerous path.

I understand those who protest that some countries have weapons that others do not. No single nation should pick and choose which nation holds nuclear weapons. And that's why I strongly reaffirmed America's commitment to seek a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. (Applause.) And any nation -- including Iran -- should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That commitment is at the core of the treaty, and it must be kept for all who fully abide by it. And I'm hopeful that all countries in the region can share in this goal.

The fourth issue that I will address is democracy. (Applause.)

I know -- I know there has been controversy about the promotion of democracy in recent years, and much of this controversy is connected to the war in Iraq. So let me be clear: No system of government can or should be imposed by one nation by any other.

That does not lessen my commitment, however, to governments that reflect the will of the people. Each nation gives life to this principle in its own way, grounded in the traditions of its own people. America does not presume to know what is best for everyone, just as we would not presume to pick the outcome of a peaceful election. But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. These are not just American ideas; they are human rights. And that is why we will support them everywhere. (Applause.)

Now, there is no straight line to realize this promise. But this much is clear: Governments that protect these rights are ultimately more stable, successful and secure. Suppressing ideas never succeeds in making them go away. America respects the right of all peaceful and law-abiding voices to be heard around the world, even if we disagree with them. And we will welcome all elected, peaceful governments -- provided they govern with respect for all their people.

This last point is important because there are some who advocate for democracy only when they're out of power; once in power, they are ruthless in suppressing the rights of others. (Applause.) So no matter where it takes hold, government of the people and by the people sets a single standard for all who would hold power: You must maintain your power through consent, not coercion; you must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise; you must place the interests of your people and the legitimate workings of the political process above your party. Without these ingredients, elections alone do not make true democracy.

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Barack Obama, we love you!

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Thank you. (Applause.) The fifth issue that we must address together is religious freedom.

Islam has a proud tradition of tolerance. We see it in the history of Andalusia and Cordoba during the Inquisition. I saw it firsthand as a child in Indonesia, where devout Christians worshiped freely in an overwhelmingly Muslim country. That is the spirit we need today. People in every country should be free to choose and live their faith based upon the persuasion of the mind and the heart and the soul. This tolerance is essential for religion to thrive, but it's being challenged in many different ways.

Among some Muslims, there's a disturbing tendency to measure one's own faith by the rejection of somebody else's faith. The richness of religious diversity must be upheld -- whether it is for Maronites in Lebanon or the Copts in Egypt. (Applause.) And if we are being honest, fault lines must be closed among Muslims, as well, as the divisions between Sunni and Shia have led to tragic violence, particularly in Iraq.

Freedom of religion is central to the ability of peoples to live together. We must always examine the ways in which we protect it. For instance, in the United States, rules on charitable giving have made it harder for Muslims to fulfill their religious obligation. That's why I'm committed to workin