February 24, 2011

On Friday, Feb. 25, the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) and the Islamic Center of Southern California (ICSC) will hold a press conference at noon where local Libyan and Egyptian leaders will comment on the turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa. They will also share personal testimonies from their extended families and friends living in Libya and around the region.

From Tunisia to Egypt to Libya to Bahrain, the region is witnessing an unprecedented change – the people’s quest for democracy is crushing the brutal legacy of dictatorship. MPAC Senior Adviser Dr. Maher Hathout, along with local Libyan leaders, will speak about the change sweeping over the region, and call on the Obama administration to speak boldly in support of popular movements for democracy.

The press conference will be followed by the weekly congregational prayer, as well as a special funeral prayer for the more than 1,000 people who have lost their lives or been hurt by the devastation in Libya, Bahrain, Yemen, Algeria and beyond. 

WHAT: Press Conference on Uprisings in the Middle East &North Africa

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 24, at Noon

WHERE: Islamic Center of Southern California – 2^nd floor
              434 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90020

WHO: Dr. Maher Hathout, MPAC Senior Adviser & Expert on Middle East affairs
           Local Libyan Americans with family living in Libya

On Thursday, Feb. 23, MPAC will also join Muslims across Southern California for a “Day of Fasting” in solidarity with the people of the Middle East and North Africa. Local Muslims will gather at the Islamic Center on Thursday evening at 5:30 p.m. to break their fast and collectively pray for the region.

Fasting is a concept shared by many faiths as a way to bring people closer to God, and to recognize those who cannot take their next meal for granted. Fasting reminds us of the principles we hold in common, and Islam's role in advancing justice, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.

Media professionals are invited to join the parishioners and the gathering in support of the people protesting for freedom, liberty and democracy.

One-on-one interviews with any of the speakers can be arranged by calling Communications Coordinator Marium Mohiuddin at (323) 258-6722 or (512) 657-7819.