victims of racism, xenophobia and related intolerance. The first draft document for the conference caused controversy as Canada, Italy, Israel, America and others believed the wording could be used to foster anti-Semitic hate through aggressive expressions. An Italian spokesman said, ‘The phrases in the draft declaration were ‘totally unacceptable' and would have to be removed before Italy considered participating in the summit.' America voiced international concern about the Israel/Iranian, Israel/Palestinian struggle being too glaring to ignore. A press release from OHCHR's New York Office now states the revised text ‘does not mention any particular countries and it expects to adopt the framework of existing international law to address issue of religious hate speech.' It is unclear who will or will not participate in next weeks conference.

Pray:

that this conference will not be hijacked into demonizing Israel and ignoring pressing global issues of racism, debt relief, AIDS and equitable trade pacts. (Ps.12:3-5)

Source: Prayer Alert