Boca Woman Uses Facebook To Stage Rally For Egypt
BOCA RATON (CBS4) - From a tree-lined park in picturesque Boca Raton, a group of Egyptians and Americans rallied to show their support for those demanding change half a world away in Egypt.
"I was hoping that I was down there right now and participating with the people," said Ahmed El Maadawy, who was raised in Egypt. "Even in Boca here -- it's a small city but we can still send our message across."
About 40 people lined Federal Highway at Sanborn Square, holding signs and shouting that President Hosni Mubarak must step down.
"We believe in basic human rights for all countries and that's why we want local lawmakers to stop aid to dictators like Mubarak and all around the world," said Stephanie El Maadawy who used Facebook to organize the "Rally for a Free Egypt."
With a megaphone, protesters shouted "Mubarak. Mubarak. Step down. Step down." Those attending the rally said it was difficult to watch events unfold in their native land. But they believe Mubarak's immediate resignation will make life better economically and politically for Egyptians.
"My family's from Egypt," Lena Emara told CBS 4's Carey Codd. "I have family living there on less than 100 dollars a month. Half the country is living on even less than that."
That is one of the main reasons protesters took to the streets of Cairo ten days ago, demanding change. Thursday, protesters demanding Mubarak step down clashed with government loyalists, hurling rocks at each other. Military forces tried to separate the sides.
At least six people were killed and hundreds more injured when Mubarak supporters attacked the pro-democracy demonstrators. Heavy gunfire was reported amid the clashes; fires and looting have broken out in and around the city.
Foreign journalists have been beaten with sticks and fists by pro-government mobs and dozens of reporters and their crews have been detained by security forces.
On Thursday, the White House called on Egypt to ensure that peaceful protests can take place, saying the world is watching. Spokesman Robert Gibbs also said that the "systematic targeting" of journalists in Egypt was unacceptable and that those who've been detained must be freed.
Protesters in Egypt promise a massive protest for Friday, calling Friday the day of departure for Mubarak.
Thursday night, the New York Times reported the Obama administration is working on a plan to have Mubarak resign and turn power over to Egypt's Vice President with military support.
Those rallying in Boca Raton promised to continue their efforts as well, with a rally scheduled for Sunday in Fort Lauderdale outside the United States Courthouse.
They said they won't stop until Mubarak leaves office.
"He has to step down," said Stephanie El Maadawy. "Not tomorrow. Not in 6 months. Today. The Egyptian people deserve a clean slate and we want to make sure that that happens."
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