Open Letter from Michael Kirtley, Friendship Caravan President

Today I have decided that I cannot simply stand aside while the world moves on its perilous trajectory. The tragic events of September 11th have shaken me, as they have shaken many others. Unlike many others, however, I have had the privilege of getting to know Arabs and other Muslims on their own turf – in their cities, on their farms, under their tents and on the backs of their animals. I have been taken into their families, prayed and sung songs with them. I have debated politics and argued with them. I have tasted the couscous of Morocco, the tiebou-djen of Senegal, the millet paste of Niger, and the pastries of Lebanon. On rare occasions I have been threatened, but mainly I have been welcomed time and again with a warmth that truly makes me feel at home. Thirty years among Arabs and other Muslims, and I have no regrets other than to not be able to give back as much as I have received from them.

On the other hand I love my country too. I am an American from the hills of central Kentucky. I am a true southerner but heartily embrace the amazing diversity of our nation. I am a lifelong baseball and college basketball fan, and I believe in the founding ideals of America. But most of all I believe in the abiding goodness of the American people. My mother taught me not to hate, and she was the finest American I have ever known. My many travels across America have taught me that we too are a hospitable and open-hearted people. We are generous and we want to do the right thing.

Today I have decided to do the right thing, as a good American. I will set aside my other activities and promote the Friendship Caravan.  

This undertaking is anchored in the following reasoning: Most people would not be attracted to simply hearing nice things about Muslims and Arabs (or Americans, for our overseas audience), or being told how Muslims and Americans have a multitude of commonalities in their respective cultures. That activity, unfortunately, is generally reserved for churches or liberal political circles. So we need to approach our audience insidiously, i.e., grab them with a concept that is so exciting that they feel compelled to look and look again. When they do look we must give them something that constantly surprises and delights them. No preaching, no politics. On the other hand, lots of entertainment: music, celebrities, adventure, drama, real-life cooperation among people of different cultures. For the Caravan will not succeed as an exploit if the actual caravaneers do not work together. Instead of "Survivor", where people of American culture first cooperate only to later turn traitor, this “live” Reality TV will develop drama from the networking of people of diverse backgrounds for a greater good, and the success of the expedition.

I imagine this Caravan like a clothesline strung all across the USA. On this clothesline will be hung numerous secondary events. This is the genius behind having a three-month extravaganza: lots of opportunities for the Friendship Caravan to interface with students, municipalities, celebrities, local populations, etc., with multiple media-friendly moments, including adventurous action and evolving drama. Moreover, the duration and media attention will allow for the Muslim world outside America to overcome its suspicions, while the caravaneers continually demonstrate the authenticity of our goal to build a bridge of friendship. This feeling will be heightened as the Muslim members of the Caravan develop celebrity status, giving overseas viewers the opportunity to see them as role models in a world where Muslims can participate as equals.

I am looking forward to meeting the many people of good will who wish to join with me in helping to create this grand adventure in cross-cultural dynamics. I really do believe that we have the potential to make a difference.

Michael Kirtley