Saying No to War

The Trump administration’s desire to go to war with Iran circumvents constitutional authority, and it threatens the United States’ aspiration as a harbinger of global peace and security. As Americans, we should be outraged by the actions of the Trump Administration. A war with Iran will not make our world safer. It will produce the opposite, perhaps even trigger a third world war.

Salam's short video on the dangers of this proposed war →
Stand up and oppose war with Iran →

Living Under the Muslim Ban

Countless families are still living the Muslim Ban. Babies separated from fathers, grandparents unable to see their grandchildren, wives kept away from their husbands. We are working to counter this bigoted policy; we started in the courts and now we have moved our efforts to Congress where we are pushing to pass the #NoBanAct that will elimate not only Trump’s Muslim Ban but also make it impossible to pass similar policies in the future.

Learn about our work on the #MuslimBan →

One of America's Premier TV Festivals

For the first time ever, Muslim voices were heard at the ATX Television Festival where MPAC’s Hollywood Bureau hosted a panel. Bringing together directors, screenwriters and actors, our panel focused on the onscreen perceptions since the 2016 presidential election, and the forward-thinking importance of turning this moment into a sustained movement. Our presence in major festivals like ATX and Sundance allows us to give a voice to our community, especially those in the entertainment industry. This is essential in the movement towards representation and inclusion for all Muslims.

Learn more about the ATX Television Festival →

Engagement Equates to Progress

To address the rising number of attacks against mosques, synagogues, temples, and churches carried out primarily by white supremacists, we are working locally and nationally with experts and civil society partners. Last month, Omar Ricci, former MPAC board chair and current board member, was asked to testify at a Congressional hearing. We’ve also been asked to join both a national and a local task force where we will be advising the Department of Homeland Security and other law enforcement agencies on how best to protect our communities. All of these are just one part of our larger strategy to ensure the protection of American Muslims. 

Read more about the hearing →
Read more about the DHS task force →
Read more about the LA Interfaith Security Task force →

Your Future Leaders Today

The 2019 Congressional Leadership Development Program kicked off last month in Washington DC. 12 fellows were placed in internships on Capitol Hill and are working under the leadership of Committees and Members of Congress like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Senator Tim Kaine (VA), and the House Committee on Homeland Security. Under the guidance of these Members of Congress and their staff, as well as the curriculum and mentorship opportunities we provide, this cohort is well on its way to becoming the leaders of tomorrow. 

Learn more about CLDP →

MPAC in the Media

From stereotype to the good guy

“Authentic representation is important not only because it influences how other people see Muslims – but also how Muslims see themselves.” 

Sue Obeidi, BBC →

Muslim, Christian, and Jewish leader round table

“Muslims tended to still be wary of law enforcement because of perceptions that police profiled Muslims after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001.” 

Salam Al-Marayati, Jewish Telegraphic Agency →

Strength in community

“When you go to the mosques now, there is increased security and it contributes to the sense that American Muslims aren’t safe anymore.” 

Engie Mohsen, TRT World →

We need more Muslim storytellers

“For our work in Hollywood to be successful, networking and engaging is vital and we’ve actually changed hearts and minds by unpacking the myths and stereotypes about Muslims and Islam.” 

Sue Obeidi, Tea Talks With Tomeka →

LA Mayor apologizes to American Muslims for remarks

“In response, several local religious groups denounced the mayor’s comments. Muslim groups sought and were granted a meeting with the mayor.” 

Salam Al-Marayati, Los Angeles Times →