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Law enforcers, Arab-Americans
meet to work on trust issues
Friday, October 15, 2004
By Ed White
The Grand Rapids Press
They don't always agree, but at least they are learning about each
other. And that's the benefit of regular meetings of federal
law enforcers and Arab-American leaders in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids
and Lansing, three years after the terrorist attacks, U.S. Attorney
Margaret Chiara said Thursday.
Chiara introduced 14 members of a group called Bridges of Western
Michigan. Since January, they have been gathering almost
monthly.
Law enforcers learn about Arab
and Muslim culture. Arab leaders air their concerns about racial
profiling, immigration, traffic stops, anti-terrorism laws and other
issues.
The meetings "cultivate
an atmosphere of trust," said Ali Labib of the American-Arab
Anti-Discrimination Committee in Kalamazoo. "We disagree on
most of the things we talk about ... but we understand the other
side's position, too," he said.
Karen Henry is an
Arab-American and director of Operation Weed & Seed, a Grand
Rapids crime-prevention program. She said the meetings help
"demystify" perceptions among the participants.
A Kalamazoo peace activist,
Shadia Kanan, has discussed the cultural practices of Muslim women.
John Mumma, head of federal
security at Gerald R. Ford International Airport, said his screeners
have become more sensitive to Arab-American travelers. He has tried
to "dispel the myth" that his agency targets people with a
Middle Eastern background.
Chiara said the meetings are not open to the public, although the
group tries to promote itself by "word of mouth" so people
can pass any concerns.
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