Finally, Malek and ADC reach an agreement about the situation they had last year when his invitation and subsequent actions caused a fire storm and legal actions. Almost a year later, comes this:
The statement on His Matter:
April 12, 2012 -- The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) expresses regret to Malek Jandali and his fans for the unfortunate circumstances pertaining to the performance of his piece “Watani Ana” at the June 2011 American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee National Convention. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee regrets any action that may have given the impression that Mr. Jandali’s invitation to the event was withdrawn, and that his song “Watani Ana” was nevertheless played at the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee annual Gala.
The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee is pleased to announce that an amicable resolution with Mr. Jandali regarding this matter has been reached. Mr. Jandali is a composer & pianist of the highest caliber. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee will continue to support him and his powerful message of peace, freedom and harmony. It is in this spirit we hope to move forward and continue to build our grassroots network, as we work to empower Arab Americans.
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Now
Malek is a gifted composer and pianist, ADC did not handle his matter very well and they have acknowledge as much. But there's no denying that he has benefited form this matter and the fiasco fowling ADC's decisions. It should come not as a victory, because if ADC loses many of us lose. After all it's an organization for the community. I have supported Mr. Jandali's stand on Syria and his struggle to get his song heard. However, since then I have become more cynical about the events in Syria. It's not a black and white issue.
I am ready to move forward, and I hope Malek will put this behind him. WE may disagree sometimes, but there's no reason why we should try to tear one another apart. There are plenty of other people who are already doing that. ADC will always be there helping many in the community and reminding American policy makers of the great American mosaic. I'll drink to that.
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