Rumi Forum Organized 2nd Annual Ramadan Suhoor

The 2^nd Annual Ramadan Suhoor, organized by the Rumi Forum took place on the 11^th of July, 2015. Various ambassadors, members of the media, intellectuals from think tanks, scholars, NGO leaders and other professions all shared a meal together, forming a crowd of more than 80 people. 

Laurie Fulton, former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark, and Earl Rasmussen, from the Eurasia center gave a few remarks regarding Ramadan and addressed the concept of sharing meals. Although she hosted many Iftars as Ambassador, Mrs. Fulton explained that this was her first Suhoor. She discussed the importance of shared meals in the 3 Abrahamic religions, explaining that more than religious events, “they are now part of our culture.” In fact, she emphasized their positive aspects by describing a study that found a correlation between sharing meals and traits of “generosity, altruism and the ability to interact.” She therefore concluded that communal meals are significant because they allow us to “get acquainted, to know more about each other and to enjoy life.”

Additionally, Earl Rasmussen explained that sharing a meal is indeed “much more than preparing your body to go on for the rest of the day.” Sharing a meal gives the opportunity to share thoughts, ideas and feelings. More than a biological necessity, sharing a meal builds relationships. He emphasized that “we are not just nourishing our bodies, but our minds and souls.” This is particularly important in today’s society where working days have become “so busy”. Rasmussen ended his remarks by citing a quote from the prophet, “Eat together, and not separately, for the blessing is associated with the company.”

Speaker Videos:

Ambassador Laurie Fulton

Earl Rasmussen, Eurasia Center

See Photos of the event here:

2015 Ramadan Iftars

Rumi Forum Internships Available for Summer 2014

Employment & Internship

Currently Available Internship Opportunities at Rumi Forum

Internship Program

We are always considering applications for our internship program (dates are flexible and negotiable)

Eligibility: All undergraduate and master’s-level students and J.D. and Ph.D. candidates as well as recent graduates are eligible to apply.

Application Process: In order to apply for a Rumi Forum Internship, please fill out this application form. You may send any supporting documents such as CVs, resumes etc to internships@rumiforum.org . Please note that you need to fill out the application form first before sending any documents.
Available Internship Positions

• Project Internship
• Multimedia Internship
• Web Design Internship
• Public Relations Internship

Project Internships

The responsibility of the interns of these centers will be about general projects  of Rumi Forum including organization of luncheon  and ambassador speaking series, conferences, seminars, trips to Turkey and social responsibility projects.
Requirements:
Pursuing an undergraduate degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science,  Sociology, Journalism, Communications, or other related fields in the social sciences and arts.
Duties may include the following:

• Reaching prominent government, corporate and media officials, opinion-makers, academics, diplomats, clergy and other civic leaders
• Making invitee lists, preparing and sending hard copy and email invitations
• Maintaining contacts database
• Checking the venue ready for the Forum and working with catering
• Working with Photographer and Cameraman
• Having interviews
• Editing speeches and interviews, preparing news updates for the website working with the webmaster
• Following events in Washington DC related to the field of Rumi Forum
• Ability to prepare press releases and contact with media is preferred

Multimedia Internships
Requirements:
Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Computer Sciences, Arts, International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science,  Sociology, Journalism, Communications, or other related fields in the social sciences.
Duties may include:
Working directly with the Multimedia Coordinator

• Assist in the creation of interactive projects
• Assist in the creation of training, marketing and corporate videos
• Develop PowerPoint presentations and prepare supporting content
• Monitor CD duplication, tape digitization, materials management and archiving
• Having some demonstrated skills in the area of design, writing, or programming, as well as some understanding of the production process.
• Having generally at least one of those intermediate skills in:
  • Adobe Flash, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere and Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Basic knowledge of video production and nonlinear editing
  • Keen eye for detail and design
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to operate a camera and edit the video footage

Web-design internships

Requirements:
Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Computer Sciences or other related fields in sciences.
Duties may include:
The primary responsibility of the design intern is to assist with web design projects.
We are looking for a talented self-starter with excellent multi-tasking skills,  knowledge of HTML/CSS, and Wordpress. Knowledge of Joomla is preferred.

• Develop the look, feel and performance of the site
• Assist in the development & concept of the site.
• Optimize, edit and upload images for web use
• Content collection and input
• Maintenance & Support Requests

1. An eye toward detail, flexibility and usability
2. Excellent creative / aesthetic / artistic judgment
3. Understanding of graphic optimization and browser limitations
4. Knowledge of Web usability and navigation standards
5. Comfortable with Javascript
6. PHP knowledge or the desire to learn.
7. Flexible, responsible, and ready to grow
8. Knowledge of HTML and CSS

Public Relations Internships

Requirements:
Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Journalism, Communications, International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science,  Sociology or other  fields in the social sciences.
Duties may include:

• Writing, editing and distributing a wide variety of PR materials, including press releases, media alerts, calendar listings and pitch letters
• Designing, assembling and distributing press kits
• Creating, updating and maintaining specific media lists
• Participating in creative brainstorming sessions
• Delivering pitch materials to press members
• Monitoring media coverage for clients and helping with monthly status reports
• Administrative duties associated with PR account management, as needed
• Public Relations or related field of study is an asset for the candidate. 

SOURCE:  http://www.rumiforum.org/about/employment-internship.html

CONFERENCE: Education and the State of our Future: Critical issues facing our children @Georgetown University

Rumi Forum Social Issues Conference Series 2014

Education and the State of our Future: Critical issues facing our children

REGISTER HERE

DATE:

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

TIME:
10:00 – 15:45

VENUE:
Copley Formal Lounge, Georgetown University
37th and O St., N.W.
, Washington, DC 20007


SYNOPSIS: This conference aims to highlight critical social, pedagogical and civic issues as they relate to the pre-K to 12 U.S. educational systems in the 21st century. Early education and K-12 areas in America will be discussed, in light of causes, effects and, in particular, solutions, at a local and national level.

REGISTER HERE
PROGRAM
10.00 - 10.15 - Welcoming and Opening/Keynote Remarks
10.15 - 11.45 - Panel 1:  Addressing Some of the Basic Challenges of the U.S. Education System
11.45 - 12.00 - Coffee Break
12.00 - 13.30 - Panel 2:  Education Reform Efforts and the Path to Educational Success
13.30 - 14.15 - Lunch Break
14.15 - 15.45 - Panel 3: School Environment & Teacher Training and Effectiveness

Moderators and Panelists
Panel 1: Addressing the Basic Challenges of U.S. Education System
Melissa Foy (Moderator) – Executive Director, Georgetown Scholarship Program, Georgetown University
Elizabeth Schultz – Springfield District Representative, Fairfax County School Board
Patrick Murphy – Superintendent, Arlington Public Schools
William Brozo – Professor, Graduate School of Education, George Mason University
Rosa Aronson – Executive Director, TESOL International Association

Panel 2: Education Reform Efforts and the Path to Educational Success
Michael McShane (Moderator) – Education Policy Studies Fellow, American Enterprises Institute
Lindsay Torrico – Director of Policy and Advocacy, United Way Worldwide
Kara Kerwin – President, The Center for Education Reform
Mary Ann Stinson – Principal, Truesdell Education Campus, DC Public Schools
Tom Gage – Professor Emeritus, Humboldt State University

Panel 3: School Environment & Teacher Training and Effectiveness
Eileen Kugler (Moderator) – Executive Editor, Embrace Diverse Schools
Sharon Robinson – President and CEO, The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education
Julia Gelatt – Research Associate, Urban Institute
Agnes Cave – Associate Professor of Education, The Catholic University of America
Harold Barber – Principal, The Historic Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Elementary School, Baltimore City Public Schools, MD

Biographies
Abstracts
REGISTER HERE
CONFERENCE CONTACT:
Mehmet Saracoglu, Ph.D.
Director for Government, Media and Community Affairs

Rumi Forum
1150 17th St. NW #408 Washington, D.C. 20036
TEL: (202) 429-1690 EMAIL:  mehmets@rumiforum.org
WEBSITE: www.rumiforum.org BLOG: rumiforum.blogspot.com

SOURCE:  http://www.rumiforum.org/upcoming-events/conference-education-and-the-state-of-our-future-critical-issues-facing-our-children.html

Currently Available Job Opportunities at Rumi Forum

Internship Program

We are always considering applications for our internship program (dates are flexible and negotiable)

Eligibility: All undergraduate and master’s-level students and J.D. and Ph.D. candidates as well as recent graduates are eligible to apply.

Application Process: In order to apply for a Rumi Forum Internship, please fill out this application form. You may send any supporting documents such as CVs, resumes etc to internships@rumiforum.org . Please note that you need to fill out theapplication form first before sending any documents.

Available Internship Positions
Project Internship
Multimedia Internship
Web Design Internship
Public Relations Internship



Project Internships

The responsibility of the interns of these centers will be about general projects of Rumi Forum including organization of luncheon and ambassador speaking series, conferences, seminars, trips to Turkey and social responsibility projects.

Requirements:

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Sociology, Journalism, Communications, or other related fields in the social sciences and arts.

Duties may include the following:
Reaching prominent government, corporate and media officials, opinion-makers, academics, diplomats, clergy and other civic leaders
Making invitee lists, preparing and sending hard copy and email invitations
Maintaining contacts database
Checking the venue ready for the Forum and working with catering
Working with Photographer and Cameraman
Having interviews
Editing speeches and interviews, preparing news updates for the website working with the webmaster
Following events in Washington DC related to the field of Rumi Forum
Ability to prepare press releases and contact with media is preferred



Multimedia Internships

Requirements:

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Computer Sciences, Arts, International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Sociology, Journalism, Communications, or other related fields in the social sciences.

Duties may include:

Working directly with the Multimedia Coordinator
Assist in the creation of interactive projects
Assist in the creation of training, marketing and corporate videos
Develop PowerPoint presentations and prepare supporting content
Monitor CD duplication, tape digitization, materials management and archiving
Having some demonstrated skills in the area of design, writing, or programming, as well as some understanding of the production process.
Having generally at least one of those intermediate skills in:
Adobe Flash, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere and Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic knowledge of video production and nonlinear editing
Keen eye for detail and design
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to operate a camera and edit the video footage



Web-design internships

Requirements:

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Computer Sciences or other related fields in sciences.

Duties may include:

The primary responsibility of the design intern is to assist with web design projects.
We are looking for a talented self-starter with excellent multi-tasking skills, knowledge of HTML/CSS, and Wordpress. Knowledge of Joomla is preferred.
Develop the look, feel and performance of the site
Assist in the development & concept of the site.
Optimize, edit and upload images for web use
Content collection and input
Maintenance & Support Requests
An eye toward detail, flexibility and usability
Excellent creative / aesthetic / artistic judgment
Understanding of graphic optimization and browser limitations
Knowledge of Web usability and navigation standards
Comfortable with Javascript
PHP knowledge or the desire to learn.
Flexible, responsible, and ready to grow
Knowledge of HTML and CSS



Public Relations Internships

Requirements:

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in Journalism, Communications, International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Sociology or other fields in the social sciences.

Duties may include:
Writing, editing and distributing a wide variety of PR materials, including press releases, media alerts, calendar listings and pitch letters
Designing, assembling and distributing press kits
Creating, updating and maintaining specific media lists
Participating in creative brainstorming sessions
Delivering pitch materials to press members
Monitoring media coverage for clients and helping with monthly status reports
Administrative duties associated with PR account management, as needed
Public Relations or related field of study is an asset for the candidate.

send questions to: info[at]rumiforum.org

SOURCE:  http://www.rumiforum.org/about/employment-internship.html

MEDIA: Gülen Institute awards student essay winners in Washington

The Rumi Forum was honored to co-organize with the Gulen Institute the Awards Ceremony on Capitol Hill.

Gülen Institute awards student essay winners in Washington

Student essay winners and US Representatives pose for a group photo on Wednesday night after the award ceremony at the House of Representatives' Rayburn House Office Building in Washington. (Photo: AA, Mehmet Toroğlu)

11 April 2013 /TODAY'S ZAMAN, İSTANBUL

The University of Houston's Gülen Institute on Wednesday bestowed awards on 30 young people for their winning essays on the subject of immigration and evacuation, in Washington, D.C.

Nearly 600 compositions written by students from 40 countries and 30 US states had been entered into the Gülen Institute's international essay competition. The awards ceremony was held at the House of Representatives' Rayburn House Office Building. US Congressmen Scott Peters, Al Green, Andy Barr, Susan Brooks, Gene Green, Pete Olson and Pete Gallego attended the ceremony.

Praising the Gülen Institute for its cultural and educational activities, Green said he has witnessed how the institute brings people together in Houston.

The first place prize of $3,000 went to George Abraham from the US state of Florida. Gawoon Shim from South Korea took second place, while Vaishnavi Rao of California received the third place award in the essay contest.


The congressmen in attendance awarded the 35 young students with certificates of recognition from Congress and congratulated them on behalf on their constituencies.

The winners were also given a three-day excursion in Washington. During this sponsored tour, students had the opportunity to visit various tourist attractions, meet with members of Congress and community leaders and participate in discussions.

Green, US representative for Texas's 29th congressional district, praised the Gülen Institute for its role in strengthening Turkish and American relations during his speech at the awards ceremony, stating that the Gülen Institute helps people understand better Turkey-US relations.

Brooks, the US representative for Indiana's 5th congressional district, said she was very pleased to attend the ceremony and added she took a pride in delivering an award on behalf of the Gülen Institute. Stating that the students studied hard to be able to succeed in the competition, Brook told the students that she was very impressed with their work.

Olson, US Representative for Texas's 22nd congressional district, thanked the Gülen Institute for organizing such a competition during his speech in the ceremony.

Gülen Institute Chairman M. Sait Yavuz said they started holding the essay writing competition four years ago, adding that the students handle the problems in the world with purer and clearer intentions than the adults.

Established in October 2007, the Gülen Institute is a non-profit research organization dedicated to the promotion of peace and civic welfare.


SOURCE: http://www.todayszaman.com/news-312300-gulen-institute-awards-student-essay-winners-in-washington.html

Gülen Institute awards student essay winners on Capitol Hill (Washington DC)

The Rumi Forum along with the Gulen Institute organized the Annual Essay Competitions Award Presentation program in Washington DC recently

Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Ileana Ros-Lehtinen stands with the winners of the int’l essay contest. (Photo: Today's Zaman)

31 May 2012 / ALI H. ASLAN, WASHINGTON

Houston University's Gülen Institute bestowed awards on 35 young people from 65 countries and 45 US states for their winning essays on how to address crimes against children around the world on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.


Nearly 1,300 compositions had been entered into the Gülen Institute's international essay competition. The award ceremony was held at the House of Representatives' Rayburn House Office Building.

Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, and lawmakers Gene Greene and Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Tom Petri of Wisconsin attended the ceremony.

Calling Turkey and the United States “unwavering allies,” Ros-Lehtinen said “Our two countries have been steadfast allies for the past six decades and continue to cooperate closely on so many of the challenges that we are facing today.”

She continued to speak of Turkey's actions in Syria and Afghanistan with praise and added that “generations of Turkish immigrants have come to the United States, enhancing our society with their talents and their skills.”

The first place $3,000 prize went to Alexander Kamberov from Bulgaria for his essay on child soldiers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Ruby Guo from the United States took second place for her work on child workers. Jae Woo Jang from the Philippines, who addressed the issue of human trafficking, won third place.

Members of Congress David Dreier of California, Joe Heck of Nevada and Greg Walden of Oregon awarded the students with certificates of recognition from Congress and congratulated them on behalf of their constituencies.

Gülen Institute Youth Platform Head Dr. Tom Gage, University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work Dean Dr. İra Colby and think tank Rethink Institute President Dr. Fevzi Bilgin also attended the ceremony.

The 35 young winners were also awarded a five-day trip to Washington and New York. Gülen Institute Executive Director Ali Rıza Çandır said of the trip: “The young people will not just visit these cities as tourists. They will learn about different cultures as they dialogue with other young people from different countries.”

James W. McJunkin, deputy director of the FBI's Washington office, discussed the methods of fighting crimes against children with the contestants. The contestants visited the Turkic American Alliance (TAA), a leading Turkish-American umbrella organization, and the United Nations office in New York.

SOURCE: http://www.todayszaman.com/news-282059-gulen-institute-awards-student-essay-winners-on-capitol-hill.html

FAQ - Frequently-Asked Questions about Rumi Forum and its Honorary President Fethullah Gülen

 
Q: What is the Rumi Forum?
A: The Rumi Forum was founded upon the principles of encouraging and fostering dialogue between people of diverse backgrounds by way of projects of engagement through intercultural and interfaith dialogue. Since its inception the forum has grown to be a Washington DC icon in regards to social harmony projects with the intention of peace building and increasing community cohesion through luncheons, conferences & seminars, intercultural trips, television broadcasts, Iftar DInners, the Annual Rumi Peace and Dialogue Awards amongst numerous other intellectual, cultural, civic and social programming. Its names comes from the 13th century poet and sufi thinker Mevlana Celalleddin Rumi - whose poetry is read more than any other contemporary poet - encourages all humanity to “Come come whoever you are, come!” The inspiration for founding such dialogue centers is Fethullah Gulen. It has chapters in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Kentucky.

Q: Is Rumi Forum (RF) an Islamic organization?
A: No, RF is open to people of all faiths, cultures and backgrounds. In fact, among the people who attend our activities, 8 out of 10 are not Muslim. In Washington DC our audiences and participants include experts from various Think tanks, Government agencies, Universities and Research Institutes, NGOs, Embassies, Media outlets and news agencies amongst others.

Q: Where does RF get its funding?
A: RF is a 501-c-3 non-profit organization. The majority of RF’s funding comes from individual donors including business leaders and moms and dads. Certain programs are successful due to the number of volunteers we enlist - they spend their time and resources to make the forum a success. We do not receive state or federal funding.

Q: How is the RF involved with the Gülen movement?
A: Some of the founders and donors of RF are participants of the so-called Gülen, or Hizmet movement. RF was inspired by the movement’s philosophy and goals. We both are focused on bringing together communities in order to promote social hamrony, cooperation, partnership and community service through intercultural dialog, projects of engagement and conversation.


The Gülen/Hizmet Movement

Q: What is the Gülen/Hizmet movement?
A: The Gülen/Hizmet movement is a values-driven social movement and philosophy that advances intercultural and interfaith dialog, education and community service as tools to build a better and more harmonious society.


The movement was inspired by the philosophy and teachings of Fethullah Gülen, the Turkish scholar, author and advocate. However, participants more often refer to it as the Hizmet Movement -- hizmet means “service” or, in a broader sense, serving your community – because the movement is about serving something bigger than one person or oneself.

Q: What are the movement’s values?
A: They are core values shared by the vast majority of Americans and millions of others around the world: education, human rights, freedom of expression, spirituality democracy, social justice, dialogue and community service. And importantly, the Gülen/Hizmet movement advocates taking tangible individual action to support these values.


Q: Is the Gülen/Hizmet movement a political movement?
A: No, it does not have a political agenda and reflects diverse political views.

Q: Is the Gülen/Hizmet movement a religious (Islamic) movement?
A: No. Although it originated in a community of Muslims, it has grown into a broad movement that embraces diverse religious affiliations and is built on intercultural and interfaith dialog. Indeed, the movement has been criticized by radical Islamists as “not Muslim enough.” For example, when the Taliban took control in Afghanistan, they closed down some schools that had been founded by people who were inspired by Gülen; fortunately, the new government has allowed them to reopen.

Q: Is the Gülen/Hizmet movement a Turkish movement?
A: No, although it began in Turkey, it has become a truly international movement because it speaks to core values held by Americans and others around the world.

Q: Where is the Gülen/Hizmet movement based?
A: The Gülen/Hizmet movement is not centralized; there is no legal entity or office. Fethullah Gülen’s teachings inspired the movement but he has no legal/institutional authority.

Q: Who is Fethullah Gülen?
A: A Turkish teacher, advocate and author who is considered by many to be one of the world’s most influential religious thinkers. In 2008, Gülen ranked #1 in the poll of the “Top 100 Public Intellectuals” by Foreign Policy and Prospect magazines, intended to identify “the thinkers who are shaping the tenor of our time.” For example, Gülen had a personal audience with the late Pope John Paul II in 1996 in recognition of his contributions to interfaith understanding, was praised by former U.S. president Bill Clinton for his contribution to mutual understanding, and received New York-based East-West Institute’s peace award in 2011. Most recently Patriarch Bartholemew, Head of the Orthodox World praised Gulen in an April 12, 2012 interview in the Chicago Tribune,


Q: Is Fethullah Gülen an Islamist or a secularist?
A: Fethullah Gülen is often misunderstood or mischaracterized because he doesn’t fit neatly into the common stereotypes. Some facts that illustrate his perspective:
● He has consistently opposed violence and turning religion into a political ideology.
● He has publicly called Osama Bin Laden a “monster.”
● He has condemned all suicide bombings unconditionally and Saddam Hussein’s missile attacks on Israel during the first Gulf War.
● He criticized the 2010 Gaza flotilla organizers’ failure to seek accord with Israel before attempting to deliver aid.
● He has actively advanced the empowerment of ethnic and religious minorities in Turkey, including the anticipated reopening of the Halki Greek Orthodox seminary on Istanbul’s Heybeliada Island and the Turkish government’s return of property to religious minorities.
● He supported allowing Kurdish citizens of Turkey to be educated in their native tongue.
● He has publicly promoted democracy as the best form
of governance and supported Turkey’s bid to join the European Union.

Q: What is Fethullah Gülen’s view on America?
A: Gülen praises American democracy and has praised America’s strong democratic position and legal system. After 9/11, Gülen placed an advertisement in The Washington Post condemning the attack. He said, “We condemn in the strongest of terms the latest terrorist attack on the United States of America, and feel the pain of the American people at the bottom of our hearts.”

Q: Some say that Fethullah Gülen has tried to stop publications that perceive him in a negative light. Is this true?
A: Gülen has never tried to stop the publication of media coverage of him or the movement. In fact, Gülen talks about the crucial nature of freedom in some of his books, and lists free thinking and freedom of expression as one of the aspects and characteristics of a virtuous generation. Dozens of publications that stridently attack Gülen’s teachings have been in circulation for several years and have continued being reprinted even after their authors have been found guilty by Turkish courts of libel and slander. (see Jim Harrington’s response regarding this: http://rumiforum.blogspot.com/2012/04/response-to-nytimes-setting-facts.html )

Q: What about claims by some that Fethullah Gülen has a “hidden agenda” to go back to Turkey and seize control of the government?
A: The supposed “evidence” of that that claim is a videotape of Gülen’s sermons that actually consists of pieces of several sermons deliberately taken out of context and spliced together in order to be misleading. As human rights attorney James C. Harrington noted in an April 2012 article, a Turkish trial court has ruled that the videotape was fabricated. (http://www.todayszaman.com/newsDetail_getNewsById.action?load=detay&newsId=278603&link=278603).

GOODNESS & MERCY -Cynthia Butler on Fethullah Gulen and Rumi Forum

Goodness and Mercy

Are Following you all the days of your life.

Which is why the Gulen Movement and the Rumi Forum are in America. It's the other side of Islam- the side that built civilizations before Europe existed as we know it. There is an Islam which is kind, merciful, peaceful and nothing like the screaming Islam of 'terrorists' neocons wanted us to associate with the word 'Muslim' There are Muslims who are deeply devoted to peace, peace-making, inter-religious dialogue and building bridges of hope, prosperity and Love between all peoples. Gulen is a guy who has been accused of being too much muslim for the Secularist Turks who revere Attaturks Secular reform. They fear he has engineered a secret coup from a wooden bunker in the Poconos. Gulen apparently advocates a model for higher educational advancement, building schools of higher learning all across the world. He appears to be a new prophet (small "p" because they believe Mohammed was the last legitimate prophet and there are no more) of a new Islamic Enlightenment which is friendly to democracy and capitalism. In fact beating capitalism at its own game.

The Rumi Forum in Washington, DC is a think tank of religious reconciliation and inter-religious dialogue and cultural exchange. It is an Embassy of Enlightenment and Hospitality, inviting Congresspeople, dignitaries, Ambassadors, Scholars, Authors and Religious figures who have one goal: mutual understanding, loving co-existence and peace-building through dialogue. The Rumi Forum has honored Priests, Diplomats and Congresspeople, heads of NGOs and Foundations and Professors. It is a brilliant organization founded on something so exceptionally simple it evades modern life: Loving Kindness.

Leslie Stahl recently did a 60 minutes episode on the Gulen Movement [here] and the President of the Rumi Forum (www.RumiForum.org) filled in the gaps of her interview [here]on their website regarding what it is all about. It is a remarkable movement that embraces all faiths and people and is the clearest expression of God and holiness outside a church I have ever seen. click: RUMI FORUM

In the last two days they have had two speakers, both Jewish, who were welcomed graciously to discuss their ideas, theology, books and missions. One was a Professor of Conflict Resolution at George Mason's School for Conflict Resolution and the other, the son of an Iraqi Kurdistan Jewish immigrant who was a Professor in Aramaic (the language of Jesus he reminded us) at UCLA. He has recently written a book called "My Father's Paradise" about his journey discovering his father's early childhood in the mountains of Kurdistan. This son, a former journalist, spoke about how the Muslims and Jews in Kurdistan before a mass exodus of Jews from that region in the 1940s were so close as to be considered family or brothers, living in harmony and peaceful mutually protective co-existence. Harmony is a good word, and the name of the Charter schools the movement has set up. Harmony is something musical that comes from a spiritual realm that resonates a balance, a beauty and a reverberating joy. If Rumi was the poet of Love, Gulen is the poet of Harmony-
and his presence in America is a tribute and honor to us. We have an angel among us, one who prefers the quiet of a Pennsylvania mountain stream perhaps to TV interviews or a spotlight.

While his presence may be hidden the fruits of his harmony are not- and you can glimpse some of them at the Rumi Forum in downtown Washington, DC and several other states now. The President of the Forum in America is a jovial Australian of Turkish background (ever meet a Turk with an Australian accent?) who opens his heart and his kitchen to everyone he meets. Lectures often come with lunch because breaking bread together in every tradition builds bonds of friendship and family. Truly, this is a piece of God in a sometimes dark place.

God is Great, God is Merciful and God Loves Us All. On that, we can all agree.

SOURCE: http://www.democracytruth.blogspot.com/2012/05/goodness-and-mercy.html

WHITE HOUSE Celebrating Interfaith Collaboration with the Rumi Forum

The Rumi Forum was mentioned on the White House blog today. A graphic of the White House web page is below with the full text thereafter and the source link

NEWSLETTER - July 2011

READ NEWSLETTER:
http://www.rumiforum.org/newsletter/2011/july/newsletter.html

• Deepest Condolences to Norwegians
• SAIS/Rumi Forum Panel - A New Era in Peace Building & Democratization
• Community Engagement Night
• Rumi Forum’s New Advisory Board
• FAIRFAX TV Channel 30
• Recent Luncheons
• Chicago Fethullah Gulen Conference
• Visit Rumi Forum Blog for Other News
• Donate to Rumi Frum
• Turkish Classes
• Rumi Forum Internship Program

NEWSLETTER - May 2011

http://www.rumiforum.org/newsletter/2011/may/newsletter.html

In this issue - May 2011

VIDEO Thomas Michel talks on Fethullah Gulen

Thomas Michel has held the position of Secretary for Interreligious Dialogue in Rome and Ecumenical Secretary for the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences. He has extensively written and spoken on Fethullah Gulen on numerous occasions

Serbian delegation visits Rumi Forum

The Rumi Forum was pleased to host a Serbian delegation to discuss and review the forum's numerous intercultural and interfaith activities in the DC and surrounding areas

White House Blog mentions efforts to promote interfaith dialogue

Turkish organizations honor world youth in Washington D.C.

The Rumi Forum was proud to be associated with the Gulen Institute in organizing an international essay competition that reached its finale in Congress yesterday.

Rumi Forum Newsletter - March 2011

Check out the latest Rumi Forum Newsletter - March 2011
Check out our RumiForum.org

In this issue:

MEDIA - Bishop Chane: Gülen one of the greatest scholars

Eighth Bishop of Washington in the Episcopal Church John Bryson Chane has said Turkish scholar Fethullah Gülen is probably one of the greatest scholars and religious people in today’s world.

Speaking at a Jan. 20 meeting of the Rumi Forum, a think tank established by Turks living in Washington, D.C., to foster intercultural dialogue, the bishop praised Gülen and the Gülen movement inspired by him. During his speech, titled “Interfaith/Intercultural dialogue: a First Priority in the 21st Century,” Chane referred to Gülen as a “magnificent man”. “In the 50 books he has written he has probably been one of our greatest voices. He is a scholar and communicator who has really addressed -- not only the role of religion -- but the place of religion as an antidote to violence throughout the world, stressing the importance of the need to come to the table for dialogue and conversation.” Bishop Chane serves a diverse diocese of 91 congregations, 23 church-related schools and 45,000 members in the District of Columbia and the counties of Prince George’s, Montgomery, Charles and Saint Mary’s in the state of Maryland. Noting that Gülen has contributed much to the life and stability of the global community already, Chane said, “I really want to make a point in recognizing him and honoring him for the work he continues to do for global peace among all of God’s children.” Gülen, a Turkish Islamic scholar well known for teachings that promote mutual understanding and tolerance between cultures, is now residing in the US. Gülen has pioneered educational activities in a number of countries, along with efforts to promote intercultural and interfaith activities around the world. One of the world’s most influential Islamic scholars, Gülen made the top of the list of “The World’s Top 20 Public Intellectuals” in the magazines Foreign Policy and Prospect in 2008. SEE PHOTOS: http://picasaweb.google.com/110222538312634006729/RUMIFORUM# SOURCE:http://www.todayszaman.com/news-233607-bishop-chane-gulen-one-of-the-greatest-scholars.html

RADIO INTERVIEW - NPR network's WHRV 'Hearsay' with Cathy Lewis

Rumi Forum's Emre Celik from Washington DC and Norfolk Virginia Representative were part of a hour long radio interview on NPR network's WHRV 89.5 FM on Cathy Lewis's talk show 'Hearsay' broadcast out of Norfolk, Virginia.

Listen below:
http://www.hearsay.org/post/The-Rumi-Forum-January-20-2011-Thursday.aspx

SEE ALSO :

• Press & Media  - Washington Post, NY Times, Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Foreign Policy, The New Republic, Prospect, PBS TV, NPR Radio, The Age, Forbes, LA Times, Reuters
• The Necessity of Interfaith Dialogue by Fethullah Gulen
• A Movement Originating Its Own Models by Fethullah Gulen
• Mevlana Jalal al-Din Rumi by Fethullah Gulen
• BOOKS by Fethullah Gulen and on the Gulen Movemen
• PBS 'Religion & Ethics' : The Gulen Movement aired on US public television last Sunday
• Honorary President (F.Gulen) commended by resolution passed by Texas Senate
• Gülen movement challenges Islamophobia, contributes to peace
• Fethullah Gulen: Following in the Footsteps of Rumi by Thomas Michel
• 'Gülen movement makes Turkey more noticeable'
• Greek broadcaster praises contributions of Gülen movement
• Civic engagement, success and the Gülen movement
• VIDEO - Peace Through Education and Dialogue

Turkish Classes in Washington DC- enjoy our new Rumi Forum video

Rumi Forum's new video on our Turkish courses is below.The new 2011 courses start February 6. Those interested should contact Kenan bey on turkish@rumiforum.org

More info here and here

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Ebru News | Service Awards Honor Peacemakers RUMI FORUM ON EBRU TV

Ebru News | Service Awards Honor Peacemakers

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Ebru News | Service Awards Honor Peacemakers

In Washington D-C, the 4th Annual 2010 RUMI Peace and Dialogue Awards drew a crowd of supporters dedicated to peace and understanding worldwide.

This ceremony of excellence honored individuals and organizations who've greatly contributed their time, energy, leadership and dedication to the cause of peace.

Held in the ballroom of Washington's National Press Club, the ceremony honored individuals and organizations from all backgrounds and professional achievements.

More than 100 people enjoyed a fine dinner and a video presentation about the RUMI organization.

Founded in 1999, the mission of the Rumi Forum is to foster interfaith and intercultural dialogue under the timeless message of individuals and organizations coming together in harmony and peace.

The awardees included Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, D-C Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, World Famous Soccer Player Didier Drogba, and Alex Kronemer and Michael Wolfe of the Unity Productions Foundation.

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Ebru News | Service Awards Honor Peacemakers