Many people expressed shock and sadness at the news of the abuse of prisoners at Abu Ghraib in Iraq by U.S. forces. In a democracy, all citizens share in the blame when the civilian-led armed forces do wrong. But how do you say, "We're sorry" to people half a world away, when your government doesn't, and you don't speak the language? The modern miracle of TV, that's how.
Ricken Patel began a group called FaithfulAmerica.org to produce a video apology and buy time on Arabic television stations in the Mideast. In the ad, a Protestant minister, a Catholic nun, a rabbi, and an imam—all U.S. citizens—alternate speaking this text (a Salaam A'alaykum is Arabic for "Peace be with you"):
A note at the end says that the message was paid for and endorsed by "thousands of Americans.""A Salaam A'alaykum. As Americans of faith, we express our deep sorrow at abuses committed in Iraqi prisons. We stand in solidarity with all those everywhere who demand justice and human dignity. We condemn the sinful and systemic abuses committed in our name, and pledge to work to right these wrongs."
Rabbi Arthur Waskow, the head of a Jewish peace center in Philadelphia, pointed out that it's important to acknowledge that the abuse is sinful and systemic. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, sin is not only something that an individual does wrong. Sometimes it is also a whole structure or way of doing something that inevitably leads to wrong.
The ads began appearing June 15 and will air until the money runs out. But that won't be soon. Showing the spot ten times costs about $20,000 and the group has thus far raised $150,000. By June 23, some 85,000 U.S. citizens have formally endorsed the message.
See the message and learn more at Faithful America Website
Catholic Connections
"In the past few weeks other deplorable events have come to light which have troubled the civic and religious conscience of all, and made more difficult a serene and resolute commitment to shared human values: in the absence of such a commitment neither war nor terrorism will ever be overcome. May God grant strength and success to all those who do not cease to hope and work for understanding between peoples, in respect for the security and rights of all nations and of every man and woman."
Pope John Paul II, Address to President George W. Bush, June 4, 2004.
Reflection Questions
How effective are such public apologies, or are they a waste of resources?
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