DC

At the MLK Memorial

 

First day in DC: In the movie we watched last week, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, there was a quote that had a major impact on me. I realized soon after that its message emerges in almost every conversation we have. One of the leading characters said, “we need to start thinking of life as a privilege, not a right.” If we had a right to be alive, then there would be no reason to consider others because it could never be taken away from us. This type of thinking negates the need to be an upstanding citizen who feels morally obliged to contribute to the general welfare of humanity. I read an interesting scenario through which this quote can be better understood. Earning your driver’s license is considered a privilege, not a right. The article explained that “no one is obliged to give you your license; you must earn it to obtain it.” This being said, you must continue to exhibit good behavior on the road in order to retain your ability to drive. If an irresponsible driver threatens the lives of others, than the privilege to drive is revoked. Shouldn’t we approach life the same way we approach the road? Thinking of life as a privilege encourages all men and women from across the globe to respect others and treat them with kindness and generosity. (I do not believe that one’s life should be revoked if they commit a murder, but if you have no empathy and are completely egocentric, are you even human?) 

Our museum tours, lectures, and daily encounters have implied that from the beginning of time to this day, the “life is a privilege” mentality has never been fully adopted. During the 1870’s, owners of tenements shoved families ranging from five to twelve people into one-bedroom apartments, which created an environment conducive for contracting deadly diseases. When children were sick, store holders sold a medicine that “cured all.” What exactly were the ingredients of this magical concoction? Opium and Alcohol. These people were lied to, taken advantage of, and treated like objects, not humans. Slavery: an indelible stain on our nation. African Americans were stripped of their livelihood and reduced to tortured animals. Hitler believed humanity would only achieve greatness if it were dominated by a pure Aryan race and so he felt obliged to cleanse the world of all toxic ethnicities or “inferiors.” The existence of Jews interfered with the potential of his superior raise and thus had to be destroyed. 

On September 11, 2001, Islamic extremists took the lives of thousands of innocent Americans to protest the presence of American troops on their soil and the dominance of Western powers as a whole. They abused Islam and manipulated the laws of their religion to justify their unjustifiable actions. Daisy Khan explained that these men not only hijacked planes, they hijacked her religion. Consequently, today, Muslims are the group of individuals who are being challenged, discriminated against, and treated inhumanely. When will it stop? Our similarities as human beings trump the insignificant differences found amongst our religions, cultures, and ethnicities. What will it take for people across the world to not only understand, but embrace this? 

Today I saw that Martin Luther King Jr., one of our leading figures in the fight for civil rights in the United States and throughout the world, said “every nation must now develop an overriding loyalty to mankind as a whole in order to preserve the best in their individual societies.” So, contrary to Hitler’s teachings, only when we learn to understand, accept, and work with one another will our society achieve greatness.

--Angela Farren, Lehigh University

I was again so proud of the eight women on this journey. Today, at American University, they were asked what they had learned from the program. For each student, the question had multiple, earnest, heartfelt answers. 

Some talked about what they had learned of their own country and people. Some discussed the impact on their religious beliefs. Some talked about the deep intellectual benefits and the knowledge they had gained of other cultures and regions. Some described the intensity of the experience. Some cherished relationships that had developed. Some talked about how much they had learned about themselves.

I was awed by their eloquence and wished I had tape recorded it all. And I was struck by the revelation: There was no wrong answer. Each of these very bright women, over a long, intense month, has gained her own knowledge and found her own way.

--Jack Lule, Lehigh University

NYC and DC

Meeting with Maria and John Chrin

  These past few days have been jam packed with activities! Seeing New York City through the eyes of those who have never seen it before was an experience I really cherished; the girls were so happy, excited and overwhelmed and it brought me great joy to see them this way. Meeting with Maria and John Chrin was an awesome experience because we got to meet one of the people that make programs like ours possible. I am so grateful to her for providing opportunities like this to Lehigh students and she is an amazing and inspiring person. 

 The most challenging and controversial visit in NYC was when we met with Daisy Khan. My family and community were deeply affected by the events of 9/11 and it is still a sore subject for me to talk about. I remember sitting in my third grade class when we got the news and being so worried when my mom called to come and get me--I thought my dad was dead because his precinct was very close to the World Trade Center. Thankfully he did not go into work that day, but he did take part in much of the cleanup and even took part in the cataloging of many people's remains whom we knew personally or through friends. It was a very scary and sad time for America and especially New York. Going to the memorial was very hard for me because it was the first time I had been able and brave enough to go all the way in. I had not been that close since before the buildings fell. I was glad we went though because it was a very peaceful and cathartic experience for me after our speech with the brilliant, Daisy Khan. 

Listening to Daisy Khan

Dinner in Little Italy

When I had first heard about what Daisy Khan and her husband were planning, I was really hurt. How could someone be so insensitive? Why would they put their center so close to where the attacks took place? After listening carefully to everything Daisy had to say, I was surprised to feel my opinion shift. I didn't understand what she was planning to do and the talks that she wanted to initiate, and after hearing that it was a inter-religious dialogue center, I felt like an idiot. I had taken what the news stations were saying as truth when in fact, they were completely exaggerated. While I still think the location of the mosque/community center is not the best idea, I agree that 9/11 needs to be talked about. Daisy was right; we never healed. I also really liked that she explained that that attack was not only on the WTC but on the Muslim religion itself. I hope that in the near future, more Americans will understand that the Muslim fundamentalists that carry out terrorist acts are not the majority of their population. I hope that they understand that terrorism is a threat to all Americans-not just the white ones. It really, really, really, bothers me when these potentially intelligent Americans let their prejudices and ignorance overcome their capacity to love and cherish one another for the people we are and the beliefs we have.
 

Once we had finally arrived in DC, it was great to see all of the landmarks and to see it once again with fresh eyes. Our Indonesian partners have fantastic questions, often about things I would normally take for granted or not even think of. I am really proud of the friendships we are forming and the dialogues we are having. I think this program has definitely come a long way. After reflecting on it today at American University, I can honestly say that this experience has changed the way I look at America. I have always been critical of America, but being in a different country and in a place so different from home only makes me appreciate the good things more. We are so lucky to have the freedoms that we do and to be able to express ourselves and our religion and that is one thing I no longer take for granted. I am so happy I decided to participate in this program and that I was presented such a wonderful and fulfilling opportunity. Until tomorrow! Ciao!!

--Shannon Cassidy, Lehigh University

Meeting two inspiring women in NYC

--Cindhi Cintokowati, Gadjah Mada University 

Meeting with Daisy Khan

Terrorism is the common enemy of American, American-Moslem, and Moslem

--Anggita Paramesti, Gadjah Mada University

Days 27, 28 and 29

Meeting with Rabbi Goren

 The past two days have been full of fun and lots of religious and political conversation. On Wednesday morning, we had a lecture from Professor Matthews on Individualism and Community in American Political Thought, which I believe further clarified the interactions between the students from both countries in public transportation and a host of other things. As we discussed with the very excellent Dr. Lule tonight, it is not common in American culture to sit directly next to someone on a bus or a train or even in a classroom. Americans like their space and alone time, which contrasts to the aspect of Indonesian culture that emphasizes group activity and bonding. It is just two different traditions embedded into the cultures and I'm really glad that, among other things was clarified. I would hate to offend them over something that I didn't even realize and that was one of the things I wish we knew to explain to the Indonesians when we arrived rather than finding out the hard way. 

Another thing that was interesting was that the Indonesians loved the food at Rathbone because they could see it before taking it and they could better determine if they would enjoy it. The Lehigh students were less enthusiastic about it, but glad that the others enjoyed it so much. it was also great to have a discussion on Judaism yesterday because it was something that we, as a group, have not really studied in depth; it was not only educational to the exchange students, but eye opening to me as well because I would not have a reason to study it otherwise. 

 My FAVORITE day was today when we learned all about Buddhism! I found Professor Lloyd's lecture to be absolutely fascinating. There is so much to the religion that I really agree with and I wish that more people behaved like the ideal Buddhist. The Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center is something I definitely want to return to. I think that meditation and reflection are so important to a person's well being. Maybe during four o'clocks week I'll head over to meditate. Ta Ta for now! NYC HERE I COME!

--Shannon Cassidy, Lehigh University

Entering the Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center

 The past two days have been filled with some really interesting discussions about religion and religious pluralism. This Thursday, we had a lecture on the basic concepts of Buddhism with Dr. Lloyd Steffen. Learning about Buddhism and the importance to uphold yourself to be the best person you can be right now was a really interesting idea that I had always wanted to apply in my life but this idea seems to be very different from what I had learned as a child. Growing up in a Catholic family, I was raised to value good deeds by either helping out at church events, doing some community service at orphanages, or simply helping out your neighbors. Although helping others brings forward positivity to others and yourself, the thought to always help others and to be a good person was always followed by fear about your afterlife—will I go to heaven or will I go to hell? Learning about Buddhism was really refreshing. Later that day, we visited the Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center where we met Diana. Diana is a character! I very much enjoyed our visit at the Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center because she was able to explain Buddhism in a very simple manner. I definitely plan on attending the Buddhist study and tea time sessions held every Sunday in the future.
 

After our visiting Diana, we had a visitor—Professor Jack Lule! I really appreciate our conversation with Professor Lule because not only did he learn about the daily activities that we took part in during the program thus far, we were also able to share the ups and downs of the program. I think that this conversation was a really important one to have because I believe that everyone was thinking about how intense this program is, mentally, physically, and spiritually, but it was not until Professor Lule said, “If this program was easy, we wouldn’t do it!” that it has occurred to everyone, or at least, me, that “Yes, this program is intense but that’s how it should be! I am learning!”. As intense as this program is, I am loving it! Although this program is focused religious pluralism and democracy, the activities and the entire structure of this program has challenged so many more aspects of my life. Not only are the lectures and the visits to various religious and political institutions important in learning the history and how people function in a society, but also living with our Indonesian and American friends and learning about them as individuals has also presented many opportunities to exchange ideas and to reflect on my own culture and identity. There are only five days of this program left and so many thoughts are firing in my head about everything! This program has truly changed me as a person, I just do not know exactly how yet.

--Theresa Mejia, Lehigh University

 

Day 26

Philadelphia

 

The most beautiful thing about this trip for me is learning about my own nation through the eyes of others. Today we visited the Convention Center and the Jewish History Museum in Philadelphia--two very integral places of history that I have never experienced. On the way home from Philadelphia, our car discussions were filled with the nuances of American politics and how they compare with Indonesian policies. The questions went both ways, and I ended up thinking about the American political system in terms of the international perspective. 

When first starting this journey, I was certain that the Indonesian portion would be far superior to anything the boring United States could offer. However, I am learning just as much from the activities we are doing here as from the Indonesian activities, which is absolutely amazing--I am do lucky to have the opportunity to experience these things with our Indonesian counterparts.

--Ellie Craig, Lehigh University

Chinatown

 

I think that one of the more surprising things about the American portion of the trip are the cultural differences that were not necessarily so apparent when we were Indonesia. A lot of my experience in Indonesia lead me to believe that the two cultures were a lot more alike than I had assumed before I left. There were still rappers, there were class differences, and there were still regular young adults going to college and getting an education like we are, only on the other side of the world. 

Once we were situated in America, I came to discern that there were intricacies to this difference in culture and understanding that I had not seen before. I would often hear participants asking if it was ok to say something or ask something that I had previously regarded as fine and socially acceptable, and then realize that it did not come as common sense to them because of a culture gap. It was a pleasant personal refresher on American etiquette. I also began to think about all the things I may have done or said while I was in Indonesia that may have been offensive or rude without even realizing it. 

There are certain things about American culture that make it acceptable for many of us to feel very open and free with what we discuss and ask about, and things I did not even think about being remotely offensive (and it probably was, sorry). I feel bad about it. In the same breath, there are things that I notice about our group's experience here in America that I am offended by, but it has only made me realize exactly how different it is to be raised as an American versus being raised as an Indonesian. 

Often when our cultures clash, it becomes awkward, and painfully quiet. I think it is important for us to talk about the awkward and offensive things as a group because if it keeps happening and we don't discuss it openly, then we aren't learning very much about each other. I value the friendships that are forming between everyone very much and I think through open discussion and bonding that we will become even closer. I look forward to tomorrow's discussions.

--Shannon Cassidy, Lehigh University

Learning about handmade Colonial every day things

 

Today’s visit to the Constitution Center in Philadelphia was the ideal follow up to Professor Matthew’s lecture on the ratification of the Constitution in 1787. When establishing a federal system, James Madison’s ultimate goal was to prevent rapid change. Federalist 10 reveals Madison’s fear of the majority. How do you prevent the inevitable passion that will overcome a group of individuals who realize they all share the same goal? How do you maintain factions so that they don’t violate the rights of citizens? 

One comment that stood out to me during this discussion was that James Madison didn’t rely on the goodwill of people to shape his thought-process; he merely built the American Political System around how he expected men and women to behave in their natural state. For example, knowing all men are power hungry, his first step was to extend the commercial republic so that it allowed them to make as much money as they wanted. Next, Madison was concerned with the unpredictable behavior of religious groups, so he demanded the separation of Church and State. This way, American citizens were able to create as many religious groups as they wanted as long as they didn’t permeate the political arena. “The more the merrier” because a more pluralistic society encourages less cohesion and minimizes the likelihood of a majority forming. With this in mind, how do you think Madison would advise the United States government to deal with the abortion issue? By dividing the power between three branches of government and creating a system of checks and balances to neutralize any concentration of power, it is clear that above all Madison wanted stability. So, rather than let the national government “pick a side,” he would turn it into a state issue. 

While some states opt to legalize abortion, others will prohibit it. Despite the multiplicity of responses, there will still be stability within the U.S. government. Advancements like abortion, DNA, pharmaceutical companies, and health insurance represent modern day issues that the framers could not have prepared for. If we relied solely on the thinking of the framers and a strict interpretation of the Constitution, then African-Americans would still only be considered three-fifths of a person. An ongoing debate that began with the federalists and anti-federalists is centered on how this document should be interpreted. In my opinion, the Constitution should be treated as a skeletal framework, not a code of laws. 

When reading the Constitution and applying it to contemporary issues, it all comes down to whether or not the decision upholds the principles of the democratic government and secures individual liberty. Every generation debates over how the Constitution should evolve and adapt to the controversial issues of that time. These conflicts are exactly what Madison hoped for when designing the federalist system. He wanted factions to compete with each other. President Obama’s inability to pass any legislation shows Madison succeeded in his goal to ensure incrementalism within the U.S. government. After two hundred years, the system is still saying no.

--Angela Farren, Lehigh University

 

Day 25

Showing the kids where in the world Indonesia is

Today was just awesome! We started off with a lecture from Dr. Rick Matthews about Early American Political History. We discussed the Federalists Papers, more specifically The Federalist #10 by James Madison. This discussion was really interesting because it gives both the American and Indonesian students the view of the American system and how its history sheds light on how it functions today. 

Learning about Indonesian dance

 

Soon after this lecture was our visit to the Bethlehem Boys and Girls Club. The student participants of USIPP put together a pamphlet full of information about Indonesia and the things that we did and learned while we were in Indonesia. We handed out these packets so that the kids would be able to go along with our presentation. We were able to share things that we have learned, from Indonesian greetings, traditional batik clothes, petting Komodo dragons, meeting the Jogja Hip Hop Foundation, visiting the Merapi Volcano, and traditional Indonesian foods. The kids were so responsive, enthusiastic, and curious about the culture that it made this part of the program my favorite. 

This visit to the Boys and Girls Club reminded me just how awesome kids are, because I feel that I can rethink and un-think things about the world when they ask me questions that I have never even thought about before! The kids are just so fun to be with. I loved this program and I hope this stays on future USIPP schedules.

--Theresa Mejia, Lehigh University

Dancing

 

The federalist paper lecture was pretty serious, the rest of it was fun!  

--Anggita Paramesti, Gadjah Mada University

Anggita, with bunny ears at Boys & Girls Club

Making dinner together

Making some American apple pie

 

Day 24

Look! Who's got a new Kate Spade?

--Cut Nury Hikmah Sabry, Gadjah Mada University

Yesterday, we went to the biggest mall in the United States east of the Mississippi River- King of Prussia Mall. Since I am not fond of shopping, I was even more overwhelmed when we went to this mall because of its enormous size. However, it was a still a great chance for me to show our Indonesian friends just how much Americans like to shop. After window shopping for a couple of hours, we were off to Mama Debra’s house for an all-American cookout! We were warmly welcomed by Mama Debra and her family. We did a very American thing, and shucked corns, grilled burgers and hotdogs, ate watermelons, and roasted some marshmallows for some s’mores! The cookout was just fun and delicious! 

Thanks Mama Debra!

--Theresa Mejia, Lehigh University

The Lovely Sunday: From Sunday Catholic Service, King Prussia Mall to Cookout at Mom Nyby’s Home

Honestly, I was having a little bit disappointment to Lloyd. Why? Because when he invited us to attend this catholic service he mentioned that it because he was having conversation about that with Cindhi. But actually it was not Cindhi he was having conversation with. It’s me. I who asked him to see the church and services because I have never been inside the church before and it really made me curious. I didn’t say anything at that time because I was so sad he didn’t remember me and also because I am a person who cannot say frankly what I felt. I, sometimes, just cannot verbalize what’s inside my head. It stuck in there and I hate myself for that :'(

Well, actually that’s not a big deal because finally I went thoughJ. Thank you so much, Daddy Lloyd. That morning, Lloyd took the Indonesians girl with our faculty to see the mass. It was a very beautiful church with all the pretty sculptures but I hardly understand what the priest said when he was giving the sermon. One interesting that I found at the mass that there is rarely young men who attend the service. There is only one girl at the mass, the rest is the elder. We got to see the service from the beginning to the end for one hour.

In the noon, Stacy and Jenn took us to King Prussia Mall for shopping. We had a great time there. Who doesn’t love shop right? I would say Ola was the Queen of shopping that day. I only bought one $2 shirt there because I wanted to spend my money for souvenir in New York. We had lunch in Mall’s food court then heading to Mom Nyby’s home for cookout.

When we arrived, we were welcomed by Mom Nyby and her daughter. There were already arrived Malaysian students too, who are under supervision of Mom Nyby, her husband, her daughter Alicia and her fiancée. Mom Nyby’s home is very beautiful and homey. She has this beautiful backyard too. We had the cookout there. There were delicious food and I am so happy because of their hospitality. We had a lot of talk with the Malaysian students. We played badminton too and then some of us continued to watch ‘The Witness”. I ate a lot and that was my first time of experiencing dinner cookout. I am so happy. What a lovely evening!

--Cut Nury Hikmah Sabry 

Picnic at Mama Nyby's

Day 23

After stopping for some pretzels in Amish Country

Today, when entering the bathroom at the Amish household, I found myself searching every wall for the light until I remembered where I was. Then I couldn’t help but think that our dependency on electricity is an understatement. Rather, for some, computers, cell phones, and televisions have become a means of survival. Technology has become a resource as vital as food and water for the average human being. Americans are not the only addicts. Recent statistics revealed that Indonesia is the number one user of Facebook and twitter. Prior to leaving for Indonesia, my boss told me he was conflicted with whether to bring his iPad, kindle, or laptop. That’s when you really have a problem. Seeing how the majority of the population is a slave to technology, you can’t help but admire the Amish for resisting progression and wanting to hold on to the traditions of their forefathers. 

The beauty of their life is its simplicity. Their food is not drowning in a pool of chemicals, their kids’ bedrooms don’t look like arcades, and finally they have no problem seeing the stars at night. At the same time, as we discussed on the bus ride home, most Amish would not take advantage of an airplane, meaning they would never have the opportunity to explore the world. I never understand why Americans, Amish individuals and the average citizens alike, have no desire to see what’s beyond the walls of this nation. Every country is the product of a unique historical background and home to a distinctive group of people who value traditions and customs that can be found nowhere else. Why limit yourself to one area if so much more is out there? They may be able to Google a country like Indonesia, but it will never compare to physically experiencing their culture, tasting their food, hearing their language, and seeing the remarkable differences between both worlds. At the same time, the Amish do know how to cook. So, I can understand why that has grounded them for this long.

--Angela Farren, Lehigh University

Razwan Butt, introducing us to the Islamic Center of the Lehigh Valley

 

Yesterday was a pretty cool day all around. We started off by giving the Indonesian girls a tour of Lehigh, and I couldn't have asked for better weather to do so. While living day-to-day life at Lehigh, it is easy to forget how beautiful our buildings and campus are. Afterwards, we went to the Muslim Association of the Lehigh Valley, where a very special man told us about what it means for him to be a Muslim in America. All to often we hear of hate crimes and discrimination, which certainly still exist in many parts of our country and the world; however, it was heart-warming to hear how he has found a safe haven within the Lehigh Valley. It was inspiring for me to hear about how much the Association has integrated into daily society, for example by providing women's shelters with fresh produce and meat and by helping out a local school district to make their policies more friendly to a variety of different religions.
 

We followed this up with a VERY different example of American religious tradition: Amish country in Lancaster, PA. Though I have been before, it was exciting to experience their world with a group of people who most likely have never seen anything like the Amish. The ride down to Lancaster and the Amish farms themselves were absolutely breathtaking, as are many PA landscapes. Even better, however, was the food. Everything from the homemade chips to the soft pretzels (to die for) to the delicious home cooked meal we had with a family, their food is simple and comforting. It was interesting to learn about what is appropriate and not in terms of modern comforts for the Amish, which both Americans and Indonesians had many questions about. Jane, our tour guide, explained that like so many other religions and groups around the world, the Amish sometimes don't even know why certain modern amenities are unacceptable. 

Probably the coolest part for me was after Gita gave the little girl who helped serve us dinner the gift of a paper fan from Indonesia-perhaps a country she had never even heard of, let alone knew where it is. Stacy was there to witness the encounter, and spoke about how remarkable it probably was for the Amish women to see women in hijab, and how they were most likely itching to question them, but didn't want to seem impolite. In a situation where American and Indonesian students alike were learning much about the Amish community, it didn't even occur to me that the Amish community might have a few questions for us too--talk about some pretty cool dialogue.

--Ellie McGuire, Lehigh University

 

Earlier on that day, we also went to the Islamic Center of the Muslim Association of the Lehigh Valley. I love the discussion with Rizwan Butt. He made me understand more about my religion. He came from Bahrain and just like most of the Moslem who came from a country with the majority of Moslem; he took his religion for granted, just as me too.  Then he went to United States and decided to learn about Islam from the very basic, releasing all cultural attachment and he found that Islam is a very beautiful.

That morning one of our interesting discussions was about Islam and women. Woman's status in Islam is one of the most controversial and serious issues of our time, not only among Muslim women and those who represent them in the area of women's rights in the Islamic world, but also among fundamentalist Muslims. Rizwan clarified to us about this thing. He explained that in Islam men and women are biologically different from each other and that’s why each has their respective roles. Not that it means men and women are not equal in Islam. He explained that from Aisha to Umm Waraqa, women in early Islam held numerous prominent positions as transmitters of hadith to spiritual, legal, and interpretive authorities. The rights granted to women in the Qur'an and by the prophet Muhammad were a vast improvement in comparison to the situation of women in Arabia prior to the advent of Islam. But after the Prophet's death, the condition of women in Islam began to decline and reverts back to pre-Islamic norms. “That’s why we need to understand Islam from different perspectives, not just taken it for granted”, he said. I agree.  


The Amish: Another Portrait of America

In our first day of adventure in Pennsylvania, the committee brought us to visit the Amish Country. I should say that this is the most interesting Bethlehem’s part for me. If you imagining that all Americans live in the sophisticated world full of IPad, IPod, Macbook, and so on, well, I should say you’re not wrong. But not all Americans live like that. This Amish Country showed another dimension of Americans. Pennsylvania Amish Country is a picturesque landscape that must be witnessed in person to be fully appreciated. Rolling hills with lush grasses and crops, farms with windmills dotting the horizon and horse and buggies sharing the road remind you that things are simpler there in Lancaster County.

The story of the Pennsylvania Amish community dates back to the 16th century Reformation in Europe, when the Anabaptist movement spurred the creation of three "plain" communities: the Amish, Mennonites and Brethren. Members of this conservative Christian faith came to Pennsylvania in the early 18th century to escape persecution in Europe for their Anabaptist beliefs.  Although these spiritual groups have similarities, the Amish are the most conservative, emphasizing humility, family, community and separation from the non-Amish world, which includes a reluctance to adopt modern conveniences such as electricity. But the interesting thing is although the Pennsylvania Amish resist cultural influences, they are willing to strike compromises with the modern world, tapping its benefits while still preserving the Amish identity. They are willing to use modern technology to work and communicate - as long as they do not disrupt family and community stability.

Our first stop in Amish’s landscape was at Daniel’s house. Daniel is twelve years old and he is a smart and talkative boy. He has a very unique accent. I had hard times to understand what he said while explaining the Amish’s lives, what they do and how they live. Amish children had formal education only lasts through the eighth grade. There is no option to attend modern public school, nor a higher education institution. The Amish in Lancaster, PA believe that either of these options would pull children away from their community's families and church traditions, threatening their values with individualism, competition, rational thinking and secularism.

After showing us his family workhouse, we had this chance to look around of their mare installation. The mares are very lovely. We took a lot of pictures there. But one important thing that must be remembered when visiting Amish Country is “do not take picture of their faces”. You still can take picture of their horses, houses, farms, buggies, but better asking for permission first. Just as the Amish do not carry personal photographs or display them in homes, they do not want others to take photographs of them. The Amish believe that photographs in which they can be recognized violate the Biblical commandment, "Thou shalt not make unto thyself a graven image." They want to be remembered by the lives they lived and the examples they left, not by physical appearance.

Once I asked Mom Debra what happened if we insist to take pictures of their faces, are they going to be angry? Or how would they react? Mom Debra said that she, once, made this mistake taking picture of them and they didn’t say anything, “But you can see the pain on their faces and you definitely don’t want to see that”, said Mom Debra. Jane, our guide, told that when we take pictures of them, they believe that their soul is taken away.

Amish community lives in a very peaceful life. They never fight back when they are hurt. They are very forgiving. In the middle of the tour when we passed by Amish school, Jane told us this story about five Amish children who murdered while they are in school. The murderer had mental disorder. The family of the murderer came to the community and asking for forgiveness and they said that they already forgave and would never mention about that again. The even did not sue the murderer. I cannot imagine how if that’s happened to my family. Probably I would never forgive the murderer and definitely would sue him. That day, I learnt about forgiving.

Our adventure in Amish country is ended by dinner in Ebersol’s house. They served a very very very good food. I love the peanut butter a lot. That was the best meal I have ever had in my life. They also sang for us. I felt peaceful there. I wish someday I could return to the Lancaster County with my children and taught them about norm and values that I learnt from the Amish.

--Cut Nury Hikmah Sabry, University of Indonesia

Boy is it nice to be back in America. I have a new appreciation for plugging things directly into the wall. In fact, I can charge my laptop, iPhone, and digital camera all at the same time. I can't even describe how something so simple has brought me such immense joy. The stark contrast between living like that and visiting the Amish has only helped me to appreciate it more. The Amish live in a way that preserves their religion and culture, while at the same time is fulfilling to them as people, however, I think that sacrificing electricity and other modern amenities for the sake of being "plain" is unfair. I think it would benefit them to modernize minimally. They probably don't know what they are missing since they don't live with electricity but they can benefit from something like this. What if someone gets into a farming accident, or falls down the stairs? Traveling via horse and buggy is not the most ideal means of transportation to a hospital, etc. and calling an ambulance would take longer than just driving straight there. Things like owning a car or having a cell phone for emergencies are not necessarily lifestyle changes, they are precautionary measures that can be taken to ensure the health and safety of the Amish people. Living in Amish style homes that are neighboring "English" style homes was one way they are actually able to get help if an accident or fire were to occur in the neighborhood. I think that is a smart move for those who have branched out to live among the Amish/"English" border.
 

We actually began our day by visiting the Islamic Center of the Muslim Association of the Lehigh Valley, where we spoke to Rizwan Butt, who was an active member of the Muslim community and the committee at the mosque. He was a really endearing person and it was clear that he was so so happy about life and about being Muslim. What I have observed in my parish is quite different than his attitude. Members go to the sermons because they feel obligated to out of guilt or fear that they are sinning rather than going because they actually want to be there. One of the beautiful things about Islam that I really find fascinating is the notion that if you don't participate in your prayers or sermon wholeheartedly, it doesn't count. It makes me respect them even more because I know that they are (especially in America) following something that is a passion for them and not just something inherited from generations of followers. We had even met a young family that had converted to Islam from Catholicism. I really enjoyed that portion of our day and I really hope that the participants get to do it again next year. Can't wait to shop tomorrow!! $$$$$ 

--Shannon Cassidy, Lehigh University

 

Day 22

Anggita, seeing her American host family for the first time in 5 years

 

It was great getting to meet back up with my fellow USIPP participants once they arrived in Bethlehem. Stacy, Jen, and Debra have done a wonderful job of putting together a fun and interesting schedule for us, all the while still allowing us free time and time to relax. We ended the day with dinner at the house with Lloyd and Annemarie (a participant for last year) and a casual discussion about the highlights from our Indonesian trip as well as the things we are looking forward to (like the Amish country we are getting to visit today!). I can't wait to embark on this leg of our journey and spend the next two weeks seeing famous American landmarks with a fresh viewpoint.

--Ellie McGuire, Lehigh University

 

This program is only going to get more intense.

--Theresa Mejia, Lehigh University

 

We get into Bethlehem! i met my family yesterday ♥

 --Anggita Paramesti, Gadjah Mada University

 

1st Day @ Lehigh

Welcome to Lehigh lunch

 

Hope everyone is well at Lehigh! Julie Kwon and our friends in the Christian student group at U of M say hi and thanks for stopping by - they enjoyed meeting and sharing with all of you.

--Kate Wright, University of Michigan

                we miss you Kate :) thank you so much. looking forward to seeing pictures of your baby :)

                                         --Soulaya Lestary, University of Indonesia

 

I think one of the most challenging, and yet rewarding aspects of this program is that not only are we learning to deal with cultural differences between us, we are also grappling with understanding each other as people. Over the past few days there has been so much discussion about how we have been feeling and I think that a lot of important issues have been brought to the surface. Kate was so helpful in facilitating such discussion and I can't imagine anyone else in a better position to do so. I think that the discussions have really helped me to understand Indonesia and the participants from there and has also helped me to turn a mirror on myself and take a hard look on how I have approached this excursion and the things that I have said that may have been interpreted in ways I did not intend or expect beforehand. I'm so happy that we had the opportunity to bring our issues to the forefront of the conversation because much of the problems are misunderstandings or are lost in translation and taking the time to both talk and listen helps to dispel such things on both sides.

I am so excited for Lehigh to take over for the rest of the trip because I know that it will only get better for us here on the program and we still have so much to learn about America and from each other. I also love the change in roommate situation here at Lehigh as well. At first I was apprehensive to be sharing a room with someone that may wake up at 4 o'clock in the morning to say their prayers or with someone that I might make uncomfortable with my propensity to hang out without wearing pants. I now understand that the roommate situation, although forced by each university, was to strengthen the partnership and the bond between the people here. You don't really get to know someone until you have lived with them and have seen them go through their routine every day and get to participate in passing conversations that often turn into some of the most memorable and interesting. I can't wait for what is in store for us here at Lehigh and I hope that the others are just as excited! 

--Shannon Cassidy, Lehigh University

 

Touched down Bethlehem, PA         

We finally touched down Bethlehem on Friday noon. We were picked up by Stacy and Jenn who were very energetic and excited to meet us. I felt like I was back in Indonesia with all their hospitality. It was hot that day but it didn’t affect my excitement at all. Bethlehem, especially Lehigh, is quite different from Ann Arbor. It is hilly and the architecture of the building is very classics. On our way to the dorm, Jenn told us a brief history about Bethlehem. Bethlehem was built by a small group of Moravians who settled on the banks of the Lehigh River near the Monocacy Creek. Moravian itself is kind of a sect in Christian. Jenn also told us that there are many of the streets in Bethlehem are taken from the Bible.

Jen and Stacy then took us to Red Robin for lunch. I ordered Clucks and Fries and was so happy about that (Thank you Shannon for helping me to orderJ). After lunch, we had the orientation with Mom Nyby. She explained to us that we are part of something bigger than we thought we were. We met strangers, we lived together and we learned. She was right. This program is a life changing program. I was having a hard time during the first two weeks of this program (be it language, cultural things, etc) but I realized that’s why we are here. Then fiinally we got our itinerary! We were very curious about that and the committees were like “Na-ah, wait, ladies” when we attacked them with questions about it earlier. The Penn’s program begins! 

--Cut Nury Hikmah Sabry, University of Indonesia

Day 20 - In Michigan, we addressed a number of important issues that were nothing less than eye-opening for our Indonesian counterparts. Interestingly enough, these topics were just as alarming for the Lehigh students. Professor Hutchings gave a lecture on Race and Politics and revealed a number of statistics that identify the degree to which racial disparity inflicts our country. In terms of wealth, poverty, and education, there is not a racial gap between African Americans and whites; there is a racial “grand canyon.” Today, the average black family makes approximately $20,000 less than the average white family. In 2007, black poverty rates were 24.5%, while poverty rates among white Americans were 8.2%. In recent years, somehow whites managed to ride out the economic turmoil and averaged $120,000 in wealth, while the median wealth for blacks is $19,000. This large disparity is a sign that one of America’s greatest downfalls still continues to haunt our nation. It is a residue of racial discrimination from the past and the result of government policies implemented during the New Deal that benefitted white Americans to the detriment of African Americans. Why are these alarming numbers rarely discussed? Why isn’t the government taking strides to improve these circumstances? If the former racial barriers that evoked our nation’s largest social movement are illegal, then why are they still present? When will equality be fully achieved? Why after forty years is race still such a visceral, explosive, and controversial issue to raise? 

Hutchings emphasized that in order to resolve the racial inequalities that stain our society, we must first address white privileges. White Americans should challenge themselves to use their privilege to empower people who are marginalized, but this is easier said than done for some. The reluctance to pursue policies that will have racial implications exemplifies how the functioning of our democracy is problematic. If blacks comprise only 2% of elected officials, what is the likelihood that reparations would be awarded to the blacks for the discrimination they once suffered (seeing that this would require white Americans to give up some of their privileges)? What is the likelihood this issue would even fall on the agenda? 

The inevitable consequence of having a democracy is the obligation representatives have to their constituency. Since there is undoubtedly a racial division in partisan support, more so than not, black Americans are not an influential group in the constituency in command and so their objectives are not a priority. We discussed that a common misconception regarding the election of President Obama was that he succeeded in improving the racial disparity in America. On the contrary, it is very much alive and continuing to deteriorate the value of equality that we sought to secure in the 1960’s. President Obama simply does not have the electoral incentive to address this problem. I wonder what impact this will have on his 2012 campaign. Will 95% of blacks vote again for Obama or have they lost faith in our first African American President? I’m sure this issue will be further discussed while we’re at Lehigh and I can’t wait.

--Angela Farren, Lehigh University

 

In Michigan

In our 2nd day, we learned about the life of African American; their history, their position in economy and politics.

--Anggita Paramesti, Gadjah Mada University

 

Jakarta Post today. Finally, an English publication. Hurray! :)

--Zafira Rahmania Nur Shabrina, Gadjah Mada University

 

FINALLY AMERICA! YEAY! :D :) XD

Probably most people that read the title above would think that “Okay, girl, calm down. This is America you’ve landed at, not that you landed in a new planet”. Well, I AM EXCITED and this is a BIG DEAL for me. From when I was in high school, I always dreamed to be able to see another side of the world, to get to know how different it is, to study abroad, and just to be in some places faraway from Aceh, my hometown. At that time, London was my favorite city (and still is) but it is hard for me to do the travelling because the opportunities simply were not there. I came from ordinary family that even did not have enough money to cover the tuition fees for me going to college.

Yet, at that time I insisted to go to Java although my parents did not agree about it. Their disagreement was not because they did not want to see me having a good education but we just did not have money. I tried so hard to convince them that I can get scholarship and be responsible for my life. And I finally did, I got ‘all covered-scholarship’ from the Aceh’s government (thanks Mom). I was so happy at that time that I got a chance to study in UI. I was the first person in my family (out of 5 siblings) that got a chance to study outside Aceh and my eagerness to study abroad even greater. I saw many of my friends going here and there and was very crazy to do that too. But it is not as easy as it seems. I thought that trying to apply this and that and go around the worlds like my friends do will be easy for me. But it is not, it is not easy for me. It, however, taking cost.

I once asked for my father about any chance he can get any ticket for me and he said “We just don’t have money even for your one way ticket to come home. Even for your brother’s fee for his doctor’s competency examination.” And that slapped me. I was being very bad. At that time I kind of gave up but I believe that God never answer “No”. He just wanted me to wait a little longer. Now maybe you can understand how this opportunity is a very big big big deal for me. Not that I am exaggerating but maybe you’ll understand if I tell you that the return-airplane fare to get me to this side of the world is equal to a year of my living cost and college tuition fees.

Landing in Michigan, Exhausted but Excited

After about twenty five hours flight finally we landed in Detroit, MI. Kharis, the Michigan’s committee, took us to the van and drove us to the Courtyard, a student apartment in University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. My first impression of America is that it is very organized. It has no traffic jam like in Jakarta and there are scarcely people in the street (especially in Ann Arbor). I was very jet lagged when we arrived at the Courtyard and instantly fell asleep until the next morning (after almost 30 hours in plane). At 7 in the morning Ola and I decided to explore around the campus by ourselves. We shopped, took pictures, and met people. There was this guy who was very kind to show us how to get back to the courtyard and how to get the right bus as well as explaining the routes. He is a medical engineering student and he talked a lot. Unfortunately I forgot to ask his name. I wished I did.


Me and the nice guy we met in Michigan campus

The Fairies, the Muslim Student’s Association, and the Harvest’s Girls

Ola and I got back to the Courtyard at 10 A.M. and prepared for the meeting with Muslim Student’s Association and Harvest Mission Christian Group. Then, Kate took us on a campus tour and had lunch at Cafe. I was so confused about the menu but the American girls helped me out to order. I guess that was the same thing that happened to them in Indonesia when all the menus were in Indonesian. Well, that’s fair then. I hardly finished my meal because the portion is soooo American. It just not fitted my Indonesian’s tummy but I liked it though. Thanks, Kate J

In the noon, Kate got this challenge for us to do this Fairy door hunts. So we were paired up to one Indonesian and one American. Shannon got paired with Gita, Cindhi with Angela, and because of Ellie’s absence, Theresa, Ola and I were in a group. Our task is to find this Fairy door in the Ann Arbor’s downtown, take pictures, and find something else that interest us. I had a great time of hunting and exploring downtown of Ann Arbor. And for the fairy door, I am thinking of making one when I get back in Indonesia, lol.

--Cut Nury Hikmah Sabry, University of Indonesia

Days 19-21
The Michigan phase of the Indonesian Partnership program was AWESOME! It was a great start to the American phase of the program. We met up with Kate once again and met, Kharis, another coordinator and driver for our activities and events. I think the best part about coming back to Michigan was that Kate knew what we would have wanted to eat after eating Indonesian food and after getting off long plane rides and so on. She made the most delicious quiche and pecan pie . Kate also had yogurt, bagels, and oatmeal for us. She just knew!
 

The campus tour for University of Michigan was really nice. It was really cool to see how big the campus is and the different buildings that make up the campus. But the best part about the tours was touring Ann Arbor. I think the activity for searching for the fairy doors is the best fun way to explore Ann Arbor. Although Ann Arbor is new to me as well, it was really cool to see the reactions of my Indonesian partners, Ola and Uwi. After our adventures in Ann Arbor, we met up with the Muslim Students’ Association at University of Michigan where we were able to speak to the students about what it means to be a part of such an organization and an American Muslim. I believe it was the first time we all got to see Islam being practiced by Americans. I think one of the biggest questions was how the Muslim community was treated after September 11th, and it seems as though it was the first time we were able to receive answers from American Muslims themselves. The president of the association told us a beautiful story of how after September 11th, people threw rocks and broke windows at her mosque. However, many of the townspeople from various religious backgrounds, created a human chain around the mosque to show that such actions will not be tolerated. I thought this was such a powerful and touching story. This story is great because it is one of the ways to show that in times of tragedy, there are good sides and bad sides.
 

The next day, we had a presentation from Professor Vince Hutchings about Race and Politics in America in the 21st century. His presentation is one of my favorite presentations from this trip thus far because it brought to light the intricacies of America’s political and governmental problems. He highlighted the racial inequalities in the country and how history, policies, politics, social, and economic issues are interwoven in America’s illnesses. I think I also liked this presentation because it shows my Indonesian partners that although I think America is awesome and I am proud to be a Filipina American, America is by no means perfect and that we are still facing many issues today. Professor Hutching’s presentation was a great start to understanding the history of America. We went to the Museum of African American History and it was awesome. It was an interactive and very powerful experience. This was an important part of this program in order for all of the participants, especially the Indonesian partners to understand the intricacies of America’s issues and how history plays a role in these issues.
 

After this, we visited the Capuchin Soup Kitchen and the Earthworks Urban Farm. This part was AWESOME and definitely one of my favorites! This urban farming program really impressed me because the program not only realized that charity cannot simply go on handing aid out to people, but that it is necessary to invest in the community by means of education in order for the people of the community to gain skills and knowledge that they can utilize in their own ways. The beauty of this program is that they aim to give opportunities to people to get out of their current situation by allowing them to learn skills that they can use beyond this program.
 

After a discussion with Dawud Walid from the Council on American Islamic Relations about the Arab community in Michigan, racism, rights, and the “American disease of islamophobia,” we toured the Arab American National Museum. I appreciated these two events because both showed the reality of the situation, for both showed the negative and positive aspects of being a Muslim American and an Arab American. My favorite part of this day’s events was the visit at the Islamic Center of America. The representative spoke with us about being a SUSHI, and the importance of integrating the many Muslim beliefs in order to attain peace amongst the brotherhood and sisterhood. I felt that for the first time, this representative spoke about the uniqueness of being an American Muslim. He explained that although September 11th is definitely a tragedy, it has also brought together many different religious groups who want to learn more about each other and to gain peace and tolerance in this way.
 

As a great wrap up, Kate put aside a short amount of time for everyone to discuss their feelings, questions that might have been coming up and so on. I think Kate was the best person to mediate this dialogue. I think this was the first time that we all have been able to openly talk about our feelings as a group. This program is by no means an easy program. This partnership is an INTENSE IMMERSION into cultures. We are continuing to learn more about each other and ourselves. I am excited to see how this incredible program affects all of us.

--Theresa Mejia, Lehigh University