Program and Events 2009
Guineans gather to watch Obama’s speech to the Muslim world
On June 4, the U.S. Embassy hosted a group of 68 journalists, academics, students, religious leaders and representatives of Islamic women’s associations to witness President Barack Obama’s historic speech to the Muslim world. Deputy Chief of Mission Kent Brokenshire opened the gathering by reaffirming the U.S. Embassy’s on-going commitment to a strong relationship with the Muslim community of Guinea and highlighting the already active engagement between the two, through cultural exchange, Iftaar dinners and other events.
The speech, which announced the United States’ commitment to a new beginning in U.S.-Muslim relations, was much appreciated by audience members. Obama’s comments on the need to protect women’s rights, while also supporting their right to live out their traditions, were especially appreciated by the women in the audience. In conversations after the speech, members commented that they hoped that other countries of the world would support Obama’s efforts to unite across religious faiths to strengthen mutual understanding and peace.
Simultaneously, the Islamic Center in Conakry invited over 100 imams and other religious leaders to gather at their cultural center for a viewing of President Obama’s speech. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Andrew McLean attended the event to watch along with Guinea’s Muslim leadership. Those present expressed appreciation for Obama’s demonstration of respect for Islamic tradition during the speech and for his frank and honest comments. They noted that this speech truly marked a new beginning for relations between the United States and the Muslim world.