Well, it ain't exactly Cannes or Sundance, but it's always nice to win. Although this one, for the aspiring politically correct filmaker, is a slam dunk. Who else are you going to criticize at a human rights conference? Cuba? Iran? Seriously, now:
Preceeding the official opening of the Durban II conference, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay hosted a panel entitled "United Against Racism." She welcomed the delegates and other attendees. Immediately following was a short film detailing instances of racism around the world. Guess what story was given pride of place as the first example? No prizes for a question so easy. It was, of course, "Racism in America".
And speaking of Iran, what can one say about "human rights conference" that literally rolls out a red carpet for a man who is repeatedly calling for the annihilation of his neighbors ?
In a way it's fitting that Ahmadinejad should headline the event. After all, who knows more about racism firsthand than a man who has repeatedly expressed his opposition to Judaism and his desire to "wipe Israel off the map"?
Unfortunately, Ahmadinejad won't be held up as Exhibit A on how pervasive racism still is around the world. Instead, he will be treated as a responsible world leader worth listening to for his insights on how to combat racism. Indeed, as we entered the hall where the conference will be held today, a red carpet was conspicuously laid out for Ahmadinejad.
It says something about Durban II when Ahmadinejad is welcomed with open arms while democratic countries like the U.S., Israel, Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, and Australia choose to skip the event entirely.
Actually, it says more about the United Nations, and the state of the world at large. How close are we to a world in which the "Durbin Values" are the norm? Just one look at Obama's handshake should tell you...
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