A Word from Egypt

02/15/2011

Trust children. Nothing could be more simple, or more difficult. Difficult because to trust children we must first learn to trust ourselves, and most of us were taught as children that we could not be trusted.
John Holt, 1923-1985, Author and Educator

Ahmed Al Damrawy is Director General of the National Union for Early Childhood Development in Egypt, as well as the World Forum National Representative for Egypt. He brings us this perspective:

Dear Friends and Partners,

Today belongs to the people of Egypt, as they celebrate their victory in their struggle for democracy and human rights.

President Hosni Mubarak's departure is a historic moment that marks the transition to a civil democratic government that respects human rights and makes clear a commitment to protect the achievements won by the revolution. Yesterday the supreme armed forces confirmed those values and will uphold Egypt's international obligations, including a peace treaty with Israel.

The ECD Union, through its field partners, is working with local activists to make this happen, making involved partners and individuals aware of those vital human rights issues in general, and especially for children and women.

By sharing the stories of the cost of the revolution, building alliances, sharing lessons learned, highlighting the knowledge gap and how the ECDU along with others intend to tackle it, we're supporting Egyptians in their fight for freedom and dignity. Also, with others watching, keeping an eye on the importance of women becoming part of the democratization process and working out the trauma caused to young children.

This is a moment of huge emotion and a moment of great hope for Egypt and the region. The road ahead is full of challenges, but Egyptians are all unified on one goal: work hard to protect the gains of this courageous protest movement and never forget those who paid with their lives for the freedom of Egypt.

The Arab world's most populous country is taking its first tentative steps toward democracy and protest organizers are forming a Council of Trustees to defend the revolution and urge swift reform from a military intent on restoring law and order. I can't wait to see similar revolution to liberate the rest of the Arab World; I think 2011 will be a turning point for human rights, development, and liberation in the Arab World — HIGH TIME!!!

Warmest regards,
Ahmed

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