Before Muslims, Obama uses family background to urge U.S.-Islam respect.

OBAMA, Barack, 1961-; AMERICAN speeches, addresses, etc.; RELIGIOUS life of United States presidents; ISLAMIC countries-United States relations; ISLAMIC countries; RELIGION

The article focuses on the speech that U.S. President Barack Obama gave on June 4, 2009 in Cairo, Egypt. Particular attention is given to Obama's disclosure of his Islamic heritage. Obama's message was directed at Muslims. The author believes that his Islamic ancestry is a significant asset in regard to changing the image of the U.S. amongst Muslims around the world.