Chief Rabbi Goldstein and Premier Rasool are both leaders within their communities as well as leaders in the greater South African context. They and their communities have much to give in the building of this new nation. They bring their power of religion and a strong drive towards a life of principle. Together, they will pursue a common vision and values that can unify the whole country and contribute to South Africa's moral regeneration.
People see Muslims and Jews in opposition to each other, particularly because of the Arab/Israeli conflict. While those differences do exist, Jews and Muslims in South Africa have many similarities. Both are faith communities that have a similar sense of the importance of family, community and religion.
The challenge of "unity in diversity" - as emblazoned on the South African coat of arms - is immense as issues of race, ethnicity, religion, language and culture are highly emotive. But striving towards this goal is one that makes South Africa so unique.
In this forum, Premier Rasool and Chief Rabbi Goldstein will explore what it means to be Muslim or Jewish in South Africa and within their diversity, to find a shared way forward to help build this nation.
Premier Rasool was appointed leader of the Western Cape in April 2004. He is a devout Muslim and was recently described in the media as "The New Guru on Muslims in the West". He served as the National Secretary of the Call of Islam between 1984 and 1994 and was the National Coordinator of the World Conference on Religion and Peace in the late 1980s.
Chief Rabbi Goldstein has been South Africa's Chief Rabbi since January 2005 and is a passionate campaigner for moral regeneration. He is a member of the Executive of the National Religious Leaders Forum. He has a BA LLB and a PhD.
BACKGROUND - Enriching Tomorrow - Sharing ideas for the Future
Chief Rabbi Goldstein recently launched Enriching Tomorrow as a public speaking forum in which debate and sharing of views occur on the highest level. This event is the second in the series, following an evening with the Chief Rabbi and Director-General of the Presidency Reverend Frank Chikane.
Speakers will continue to be national thought leaders who will bring a new perspective on issues close to their hearts. The issues raised will affect all South Africans, contribute to the moral regeneration of South Africa and enhance, build and inspire people.
Jeremy Michaels
Chief Director: Communications
Department of the Premier
Provincial Government of the Western Cape
Cell: +27 (0)82 772 1122
Office: +27 (0)21 483 9955
Fax: +27 (0)21 483 7196
E-mail: jmichaels@pgwc.gov.za
Postal address: PO Box 659, Cape Town, 8000.
Physical address: Office of the Premier, Mezzanine Level, M23, 7 Wale Street, Cape Town, South Africa, 8001.
Website: www.capegateway.gov.za/premier iKhaya Lethu Sonke - A Home for All - 'n Tuiste vir Almal
