We all wish for a free and democratic Syria. We all hope that Syria will be a beacon for progress and prosperity. We all pray that current practises will become a thing of the past, and that Syrian citizens will be treated with respect and dignity in their own country.
This is not wishful thinking. This could be a reality. Things will not change unless the good people in every community press home for change. Reform-minded Syrians around the world need to get organized and start working together on common projects in a spirit of civic responsability. By doing so, the totalitarian regime will be undermined, and Syria will come a step closer to freedom.
Remember: A dictatorial regime only exists through the acquisince of its people. You can make a real stand.
Here are some ways in which you can make that stand by getting organized:
Create a Syrian expatriate society
There are over two million Syrian nationals living and working abroad. They are a treasure of energy and experience which should be mobilized for the democratic cause. You can establish a society for Syrian expatriats in your local city, county or state. You can organize family days out, cultural fairs, childrens education classes and fundraising events to name but a few. The crucial factor is to keep it a private society – there is simply no need for the Syrian embassy or any other official government body to be involved. As Syrians, we can work together without state interference.
Form a book club
Get together with a group of your friends and start talking! Maybe a book will get you going, or a organizd political discussion. There are many quality books on Syrian affairs that may inspire you. Here are some of them:
- Syria: Neither Bread nor Freedom by Alan George
- The Struggle for Syria by Patrick Seale
- The Sphinx of Damascus by Moshe Maoz
- The Struggle for Power in Syria by Nikolaos van Dam
- The Truth About Syria by Barry Rubin
- Authoritaianism in Syria by Steven Heydemann
- Secret War in the Middle East by Andrew Rathmell
Establish a lobby group
We all know that lobbying influential politicians and organizations can result in stunning successes. For any Syrian, the cause of freedom and democracy in Syria should be a number one priority. That means lobbying, lobbying and more lobbying. Get in contact with your local legistlator, make him/her aware of the reality of the situation in Syria; make contacts across the political spectrum with individuals likely to support pro-democracy actions; build links with human and civil rights organizations and get Syria on the map. Its not as complicated or time-consuming as you would think. Sending a letter or email is usually a good start.
In addition you can:
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