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For more information:
Dr. Tom Greene, Executive Director
(202) 543-1177
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 1998
Afghanistan Foundation Calls Attention To Afghan History And
Culture Via An Afghan Night in Town
Washington, D.C.--The Afghanistan Foundation, chaired by former U.S. Congressman Don Ritter (R-PA, 1979-1993), will host an event at The Afghan Restaurant in Alexandria, VA on Wednesday, September 30, at 7:30 p.m., in celebration of Afghanistan’s rich culture.
The recent U.S. missile strikes against suspected terrorist training camps in Afghanistan have highlighted that nation’s impact on the United States and its citizens. The Foundation believes that it is a mistake for Americans to associate all Afghans with stereotypes that may have emerged as a result of related events in recent years. The people of Afghanistan have a rich history and culture that the Foundation will recognize with an evening of Afghan art, music, food, and costume.
"There is an Afghanistan that many of us know and love and we hope to share it with our American friends and neighbors," said Ritter. Congressman Thomas M. Davis (R-VA) and Congressman James P. Moran (D-VA) will speak at the event, to be attended by current and former State Department officials and members of the diplomatic, and business community, as well as the Afghan community. The evening features live Afghan music, delightful Afghan cuisine with an emphasis on kabobs, and a fashion show of traditional costumes from all corners of the country.
The Afghanistan Foundation is a non-profit, non-partisan, independent organization located in Washington, D.C. As a partnership between Afghans and Americans, it serves as a vehicle to help bring peace, stability, and prosperity to Afghanistan. It seeks to promote policy development, cultural appreciation, economic growth, humanitarian assistance, community service, and a deeper public understanding of the Afghan people and their historic sacrifice in helping to bring about an end to the Cold War.
"The event and the Foundation’s efforts have even more meaning at a time when most news about Afghanistan is focused on the terrible problems resulting from its violent Cold War battlefront experience. This evening will demonstrate how this ‘partnership’ between Afghans, Americans, and others in the international community can contribute to preserving and fostering Afghan nationhood," stated Ritter.
Members of the press are invited to join this gathering of kindred spirits to experience a taste of history, culture, and cuisine.
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