In an effort to promote positive and accurate portrayals of Islam and Muslims, each year MPAC recognizes voices of courage and conscience who are the best in their field.
Cherien Dabis, Writer/Director of "Amreeka"
At the center of the award-winning independent film "Amreeka" are two Palestinian sisters, one who has lived in the U.S. for more than a decade and the other who is a recent immigrant. Together along with their families, they face life as Arab Americans during the first Gulf War in the Midwest. Cherien Dabis made her feature writing and directorial debut with "Amreeka," which premiered to both audience and critical acclaim at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival and has received rave reviews by film critics.
Dave Eggers, for his bestselling book "Zeitoun"
In this captivating true story, Pulitzer Prize-nominated author Dave Eggers focuses on the harrowing experience of a Muslim American family named "Zeitoun" during Hurricane Katrina. A Pulitzer Prize nominated author of three bestsellers, Dave Eggers is a publisher, editor, writer and educator. He is the author of six books, including "Zeitoun." Eggers also co-wrote the screenplay of the film adaption of Maurice Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are."
Grey's Anatomy, for the episode "Give Peace A Chance"
In the episode "Give Peace a Chance," the hospital's lab-tech Isaac becomes a patient when it's discovered he has an inoperable tumor. We later learn that Isaac is Muslim, and that he embodies the Islamic values of patience, faith and optimism - which rubs off on at least one other character. Written by Peter Nowalk, the episode was co-produced by Emmy nominated producer and screenwriter Mark Wilding. ABC Television's Vice President of Talent Development & Diversity Tim McNeal will also be honored for his role in identifying emerging writers, actors and directors.
Karan Johar, Director of "My Name is Khan"
Taking place against the backdrop of the 9/11 attacks, "My Name is Khan" blends a love story featuring actors Shahrukh Khan and Kajol with the harsh realities of being a South Asian Muslim in the U.S. post-9/11. Director of the ground-breaking international hit film "My Name is Khan," Karan Johar is one of the most successful young filmmakers in Bollywood. In 2007, Johar was chosen as one of 250 Global Young Leaders by the Geneva-based World Economic Forum 2006.