Arabic TV comes to Greenville

The satellite network ALHURRA will be in Greenville, SC on the campus of Bob Jones University today. Posts will be very sporadic or non-existent today as I spend time with them.

Sounds like it will be an interesting program. The show is called America Decides 2004, hosted by Alhurra anchor Ephrem Kossaify. America Decides is the only in-depth Arabic-language show focusing on the 2004 Presidential Elections.

The show aims to offer its audience in the Arab world information on the democratic process in America. It will give voice to the issues that matter most and allow the viewers an insight into the lives and perspectives of average Americans.

The program has already discussed the American System of Government and how it accommodates different "factions": Arab Americans, Jewish Americans, African Americans. The purpose for this interview is for the upcoming episode, when the program is going to discuss religious values and the role of religious people in the American political system.

My understanding is that various ideas will be examined. The network was hoping to have an interview with the group Americans United for Separation of Church and State as well. I'll let you know how it goes. Wish the program could be aired in America - and in English :-)

Alhurra is Arabic for "The Free One", a 24/7 Arabic-language satellite television network that launched on Sat. Feb. 14, 2004. It now broadcasts throughout the Middle East and Iraq from studios in the Washington, D.C. area, and bureaus throughout the region.

The network is devoted primarily to news and information. In addition to reporting on regional and international events, the channel will broadcast discussion programs, current affairs magazines and shows on a variety of subjects. Alhurra's mission is to present accurate, balanced and independent news, information and discussion, and thereby promote freedom and democracy.