In February of 2011, Farrel Beddome traveled to Morocco to participate in a seminar focused on developing projects in Aswan, Egypt. Other US recipients of the AUPAP grant monies joined her. Magdy Rabie, Chair of the Aswan-Sonoma Committee and Soad Karmy, flew in from Egypt, though their country was still in political and social chaos as a result of the “revolution” the previous month. Farrel posted the following update from Casablanca.
“Letter from Casablanca – Update on the AUPAP Egypt Grant”
Feb 11, 2011
It has been a remarkable day for Egypt. The Egyptians are now free. Being In Morocco with Soad Karmy and Magdy Rabie has given this revolution added meaning, not only because we were together in Egypt during the Mubarak regime and share that history, but because we are now together in Casablanca during this momentous time in their history when voices for democracy won over the status quo of a repressive regime. Our Egyptian friends could hardly contain themselves they were so joyful. They have been respectful of Mubarak but I would say embarrassed by living in a dictatorship while presenting their country as a democracy to the world. It was a sham. They are so excited about their future and proud of their people. With all the unknowns, they are confident about a future which promises a better life for everyone. Everyone that I met in Morocco is happy for the Egyptians, too.
While it was hard to focus on our project proposal, we got our draft sanitation project proposal tentatively approved and our medical project concept approved. We have to write a formal medical project proposal but George and I will be able to get that in draft form in one day. It has been exciting to see all of the Sister City Committees here complete their project proposals and learn what they are doing. Project by project, I can see how we will alleviate poverty in Africa. We are working at the level that makes a difference. They energy here has been contagious and we have worked hard. All in all, this has been a week well spent during a momentous week in the history of Egypt and the Muslim world.
With all good thoughts from Casablanca and Soad, Magdy and me.
~Farrel Beddome
