Feb 11, 2011
What a glorious day for the Egyptian people. Even after the predictions of violence last night when Mubarak surprised his country and the world by refusing to step down, the protesters did not resort to violence but sustained peaceful demonstrations as their numbers continued to swell across Cairo and the country.
And now Mubarak has stepped down and the Egyptian people have taken their future into their own hands. This first success of the Egyptian Revolution as a revolution of the people, accomplished through non-violent sustained protests, in the face of arrests, torture and even killings, is a tribute to the Egyptian people and an inspiration to millions all over the world.
When President Obama spoke today he quoted Martin Luther King: "‘There's something in the soul that cries out for freedom.’ Those were the cries that came from Tahrir Square, and the entire world has taken note…
"The word tahrir means 'liberation.' It is a word that speaks to that something in our souls that cries out for freedom. And forevermore, it will remind us of the Egyptian people: of what they did, of the things that they stood for, and how they changed their country, and in doing so changed the world.”
There is a lot of work ahead for the Egyptian people and all who will want to support their efforts. But today I join the Egyptian people in celebration. MABRUK!
I am so happy for the Egyptian people, and so thrilled to see their courage and their stepping into their human dignity. Also moved by Obama's words.
ReplyDeleteAnd I'll pray that events continue to unfold with order and dignity and patience and justice. And that this will also be good for Israel.
Also happy to have your perspective Ruth
This is truley a liberation for the Egyptian people who were under freedom depravation. It was shocking to see the eruption of voices calling for freedom and seeking to become dignified human being. I hope that the leadership that will turn Egypt into a democratice nation and they will see Israel as their partner.
ReplyDeleteThis is great. Thanks for the inside perspectives from someone who knows Egypt from personal experience. Keep it up.
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