Daily Dish
The push for Democracy in the Muslim world by the US is also bringing with it the rise of women in roles traditionally reserved for men. In Palestine, despite traditional pressures discouraging women from political activity, they won 51 seats in 26 localities in elections seen as a warm-up for Sunday's presidential election. In Iraq, women will be involved in larger numbers than ever before as a rule written by US-led administrators calls for at least 25 percent of the assembly to be female. In Afghanistan, three women serve as part of President Karzai's cabinet and the first lady is vowing to be out front in advocating for women's issues. In contrast, the United Nations has been harshly criticized for providing help to the government of Saudi Arabia in organizing its first elections, in which women are prohibited from voting. No one can say that any of these countries have true equality for women despite these notable exceptions. On the street the apparent culture is the same as it ever was. But the fact that there are women of education and power they become examples to others and the next generation and may serve as the levening that can change a culture of repression. When options are available and recognized by an individual, there's just no telling what they may choose to do and accomplish. And if this isn't what real liberalism isn't all about, then I don't know what it is all about.
Germany has upped it's donation to tsunami relief to to 500 million Euros as German citizens also give. Seven-time world Formula One champion Michael Schumacher personally pledged $10 million. Not to be outdone, Austrailia boosted it's donation to $764 million. Ships from the US, Pakistan, Britain and Canada head towards the affected area. The French sit and stew while the UN coordinates the coordinators. The carrier strike group lead by the USS Abraham Lincoln has been on station since December 30th and has seen and done a lot. The destruction there even shocks a (former) General. Arthur Chrenkoff has todays tsunami relief update.
Elections will proceed in Iraq as scheduled.
Israel awaits the outcome of the Palestinian elections as anti-Israel forces continue attacks despite calls from Abbas to quit.
Switzerland targets extremists...Jewish "extremists" that is...
Jounalists shouldn't be cheerleaders but they are. What Liberal media?
President Bush's nominee for Attorney General will face some tough questions in the Senate by the loyal opposition. However he will likely be confirmed. Doug Kmiec puts the debate in perspective. Meanwhile, the President heads to Illinois to gain support for tort reform. But pro-lawsuit advocates will be there as well.
Tests determined that Planned Parenthood supplies the poorest performing condoms. Prolly helps the abortion side of the business.
Radical Muslim cleric misses court appointment because his tonenails were too long. Gets a trial date anyway.
"Hello? 911? I need a ride to the bus station."
Finally: useful voices.
I guess these folks survived OK.
