Obama's Cairo Speech
Obama gave a stemwinder of a speech yesterday in Cairo. The press was duly impressed and laudatory, for the most part, but others pointed out that the main thing Obama changed was the mood.
I am optimistic; before U. S. policy can change for the better, the conversation must first change. The speech was aimed mainly towards the American public, and, considering the demonization of Islam and its adherents we have seen in the post 9/11 period, it is indeed a breath of fresh air.
It committed Obama to nothing substantial and concrete, however, and that was surely by design. The political mindscape must change before the political landscape can be transformed. Simply by treating Islam and muslims with respect, Obama is altering the mindscape.
I am optimistic; before U. S. policy can change for the better, the conversation must first change. The speech was aimed mainly towards the American public, and, considering the demonization of Islam and its adherents we have seen in the post 9/11 period, it is indeed a breath of fresh air.
It committed Obama to nothing substantial and concrete, however, and that was surely by design. The political mindscape must change before the political landscape can be transformed. Simply by treating Islam and muslims with respect, Obama is altering the mindscape.
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