April 5, 2016

Dear Friend,

Seven miles from war, 85,000 Syrians struggle to restart their lives inside Jordan’s Za’atari refugee camp. As the first filmmakers ever allowed by the United Nations to be given a tent and registered inside a refugee camp, Directors and Producers of "Salam Neighbor," Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci, give us an intimate and never-before-seen look at the world’s most dire humanitarian crisis. Zach and Chris uncover inspiring stories of individuals rallying, against all odds, to rebuild their lives. The film shatters stereotypes by creating a lens that educates the American public about the deplorable acts happening to refugees, and calls for enacting programs and policies that support the afflicted.

“Salam Neighbor” is one of four ‘Voices of Courage and Conscience’ that will be honored at our 25th annual Media Awards on April 24. The other honorees of the night are actor/activist George Takei, Oscar-winning documentary “A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness” and actor/comedian, Hasan Minaj. Learn more and get your tickets now.

We are thrilled to share with you that the entire “Salam Neighbor” team will be present to receive the award, including Directors/Producers Chris Temple & Zach Ingrasci, Producer Salam Darwaza and Producer Mohab Khattab.

The Media Awards gala is on Sunday, April 24th (5:00pm) at the Omni Los Angeles Hotel.

Since 1991, we have honored people and projects who use art and media to create enriching and humanizing portrayals of Islam and Muslims, and promote diversity and social justice issues that inspire action.

Past honorees include The Simpsons, Slumdog Millionaire, Michael Moore, Alec Baldwin, Democracy Now!, Edward James Olmos, Spike Lee and many more.

Take a moment to purchase your tickets. I hope to see you there as we recognize the people and projects getting it right.

Sincerely,

Sue Obeidi

Director, MPAC Hollywood Bureau