Gadhafi supporters dwarf opposition

by Richard Muhammad (Chicago, IL)
While opponents of Libyan leader Muammar Gadhafi showed up at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, across the street from the United Nations headquarters, their numbers and their energy were no match for those who turned out to show support for the revolutionary leader.

A mix of Libyans, many of whom were students at American colleges and universities, was joined by Native Americans, Africans and American-born Blacks.
Nation of Islam members oversaw the huge rally that stretched for blocks down the plaza.

The Sept. 23 program, which started before UN General Assembly speeches by U.S. President Barack Obama, included young Black dancers, Chuck D and Professor Griff of the rap group Public Enemy, Native American leader Ernie Longwalker, representatives of Libyan students, and student Minister Ishmael Muhammad, national assistant to the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, and others
The speakers praised Gadhafi for his progressive leadership, which includes free education and health care in his country, support for the African Union and sub-Saharan Africa and oppressed people around the globe.

The crowd listened as a satellite feed brought
President Obama’s image and words live to the audience and projected the General Assembly proceedings on a huge screen. The crowd cheered wildly, waved pictures and waved signs when Mr. Gadhafi took the microphone. The Final Call newspaper, eadlined “Welcome to America,” featured a photo of the Libyan leader, who is also head of the African Union and was distributed to the audience. Gadhafi supporters were bussed into the event from several east coast cities.

Members of the Fruit of Islam, the men in the Nation of Islam, came in from around the country, attired on traditional suits and bowties or neck ties.

With remarks translated by an interpreter, the Libyan leader called for greater equality for the United Nations and expanded decision-making through the work of the General Assembly. The veto-wielding Security Council is a throwback to the war against the Nazis in the 1940, he noted.

The veto violates other principles contained in the UN Charter, he said. Mr. Gadhafi said the UN should respect and help meet the needs of all nations, whether big or small or rich or poor. It was his first visit to the United States.


Location: Dag Hammarskjold Plaza in New York