U.S. Copts Association

Through the centuries, the Copts (Christians of Egypt) have been among the more meek of dhimmis, rarely raising their voices in protest against their restricted lives, and this has been especially the case through the difficult twentieth century. But when Copts leave their ancestral homeland, ending up in North American, Western Europe, and Australia in particular, they find their voice. They take out advertisements, organize rallies, lobby, and hold conferences.

In this context, I was privileged to take part in The First International Coptic Symposium that took place Sept. 23-25 in Zurich, which featured strong, sensible analyses and a set of excellent resolutions. (For anyone interested, the symposium has posted my talk.) Read the rest…

OPENING SPEECH

BY: MR. ADLY A. YOUSSEF

Zurich, 09/23/2004. 

Ladies and Gentlemen - Good Afternoon to you all.

After 10 years of failing health, numerous operations and recuperations I am unable to walk without the help of my good friend - MY STICK. I do hope that you allow me to sit to give my speech of welcome and introduction - without diluting my respect for you. But The Lord has extended my life and has given to me the strength to be here today - for that I am most thankful AND am reminded of that verse from Chapter 12 of the Book of Corinthians 2 ” My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness”
Read the rest…

by Daniel Pipes
The First International Coptic Symposium
September 23, 2004

I lived in Egypt for three years. It was a key experience in my life. I developed an interpretation of Islam and of the Middle East that I have been drawing on now for some 30 years. I learned Arabic; I had some wonderful experiences with members of the Coptic community in Egypt and so I am particularly pleased to be here today. This meeting is important. Mr Adley Youssef is to be congratulated on taking this inspired initiative; the Coalition for the Defence of Human Rights, Christian Solidarity International, and the Jubilee Campaign are all path-breaking in their work to protect Human Rights around the world, with a particular focus on Christians in Muslim countries.
Read the rest…