A Speech to the Muslim World -- and to America

Barack Obama promised to make a major speech to the Muslim World from the capital of a major Muslim nation. He did so today, at Cairo University. I've watched clips, heard some commentary, and read the transcript. From what I'm hearing it was well received, especially in the Muslim world. There are those, especially from the political right in America, that feel Obama gave away too much, and didn't add a big stick to go along with the carrots. But, America has been wielding a big stick for some time. We've projected our military power, issued threats, but have accomplished little beyond antagonizing much of the Muslim world and get ourselves engaged in two wars. President Obama has defined those wars, in this speech, as one being of necessity as a response to Al Qaeda, and the other one of choice.

It isn't a speech full of new initiatives, rather it is an invitation to a new relationship. What he does is outline several principles or areas of discussion. He deals with stereotype, both in America and in the Muslim World. He speaks of the presence of Islam in America.

He speaks of the threat of extremism -- especially relating to the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, which have aggravated the situation. But he also says that while we will focus on diplomacy, we will seek out extremists.

He talked about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He affirms the aspirations for self-determination of both.

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.

He challenges those who would deny the holocaust or speak/act along anti-Semitic lines. At the same time, he affirms the aspirations of Palestinians who have been displaced and live under occupation. Specifically he calls for the end of the settlements on one side and an end to violent resistance on the other -- suggesting the Civil Rights movement as a model for the way forward.

He talked about nuclear proliferation and of Iran's pursuit of such weapons. He addresses the sources of tension and calls on Iran to move away from defining itself simply in relationship to the US -- especially our past history.

He talks about Democracy -- it's benefits, but also the fact that we as Americans cannot impose it on other nations.

He talks about the importance of Religious Freedom -- noting the history of tolerance in Muslim nations/regions.

He speaks of Women's Rights -- both in America and in Muslim Countries. Specifically he calls for the education of women as a way to prosperity.

Finally he speaks of economic development, noting that there are pockets of prosperity, but this needs to expand.

In all of this, President Obama seeks to appeal to the hearts and minds of 1 billion people. The vast majority of people living in the Muslim world are young. They are impressionable. They can become bitter and learn to hate -- something that can be used/manipulated for unhealthy purposes. Or, they can hear a different voice.

The Muslim World was hoping to hear a new tone. I think they heard it. But, of course, there is another audience, the one back home. How will we receive it? Will Americans be willing to accept responsibility for our own missteps. Will we be willing to get beyond stereotype? Are we ready for a new day? We'll see.

As for me. I feel this is an excellent step forward. Now, let's act upon it. Let's not let it drop. Our recent history suggests that Presidents don't deal with this issue until the waning months of the 2nd term. When that happens, nothing gets done, and the situation worsens.

Click here to read the CNN transcript of the speech.