March 11, 2021

 — THIS WEEK IN DC —

Biden Signs $1.9 Trillion Stimulus Bill into Law on U.S. Lockdown Anniversary; Facing Pressure, Biden Administration Scrambles to Shelter Migrant Children; Senate Confirms Michael Regan to Lead EPA; Senate Confirms Merrick Garland as Biden's Attorney General; Senate Confirms Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge as HUD Secretary; House Passes Labor Rights Expansion, But Senate Chances Are Slim; Biden Establishes A Gender Policy Council Within The White House.  

 In This Issue 

• The Pope Visits The Ayatollah
• The American Rescue Plan is Signed into Law by President Biden
• Asian Americans Experience 'Far More' Hate Incidents Than Numbers Indicate
• Muslim Casting Agency Sets Out to Authenticate Representation In The Film Industry

 Featured 

"Let us continue to pray for Iraq and for the Middle East. Despite the destruction, in Iraq, the palm, the country's symbol, has continued to grow and bear fruit. So it is for fraternity: it does not make noise, but is fruitful and grows." — Pope Francis, after visiting Iraq earlier this month

The Pope Visits The Ayatollah

By: Mariya Ali, MPAC Policy Intern

For many Muslims, Iraq is seen as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment. Its religious and ancient sites, such as the biblical birthplace of Abraham, exist not too far from shrines dedicated to the family of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), an ode to the rich and multicultural history that’s been present in the region. When the Pope announced his trip to Iraq and his plans to visit the Grand Ayatollah, it was a symbolic moment. This is one of the most significant meetings of faith leaders amidst the backdrop of global tensions, hate crimes, and islamophobia, and it has the potential to be a new and positive starting point for a globally tolerant and pluralistic society. In a country where the Christian population is dwindling, this historic summit serves as an emblem of hope. Both the Pope and the Ayatollah have urged for peace and unity amongst all people and to embrace the diversity that exists in Iraq.

Read the full article

 Good to Know 

• The American Rescue Plan Was Signed Into Law By President Biden. If You're The Owner Of A Restaurant That Qualifies As A Small Business, Here's What You Need To Know
• Number Of Migrant Children In U.S. Border Facilities Soars Amid Growing Crisis
• Asian Americans Experience 'Far More' Hate Incidents Than Numbers Indicate
• U.S. Jobless Claims Ease As Hiring Picks Up
• Biden Says Americans Will Be First To Get Vaccines; Any Surplus To Be Shared
• Muslim Casting Agency Sets Out to Authenticate Representation In The Film Industry
• How America’s Vaccine System Makes People With Health Problems Fight For A Place In Line
• Switzerland Is Banning Muslims From Wearing A Niqab Or Burqa In Public

In its 29th year, the MPAC Annual Media Awards are proud to celebrate vital voices in entertainment committed to narratives of courage and conscience. These Actors, Writers, Producers, & Activists go boldly and intentionally beyond their roles, productions, and the big screen to amplify inclusion and social justice.

We cordially request your presence in celebrating achievements from Muslims and Muslim allies in entertainment on Saturday, March 20 at 5pm PT.

REGISTER FOR FREE

Want to receive our future updates?

Sign up to receive our DC Weekly emails and never miss a beat!