After a Jewish cemetery in St. Louis was vandalized, the local Muslim community stepped up, starting an online fundraiser to collect money for needed repairs. Within only a few hours of its launch, the page exceeded its goal of $20,000 and, at the time of this writing, has raised over $85,000. According to one of the campaign organizers, raising money to help the Jewish community rebuild after such a hateful attack "is a great way to show respect and honor for our Jewish cousins." Read more ...
New Filmmaking Grant Works to Counter Bigotry
In the current social and political climate of heightened anti-Muslim bigotry, Michael Morgenstern, a Jewish filmmaker in California, wanted to find a way to support the American Muslim community. He reached out to the Islamic Scholarship Fund and suggested creating a fund for Muslim filmmakers. Together, they launched the American Muslim Storytellers grant and started a crowdfunding campaign to raise money to support several projects. Read more (Denver Post) ...
Interfaith Kids Bond Over Poetry, Conversation, and Crafts
The best way to get to know people of different backgrounds and faiths is to interact, speak with one another, and learn about what you share. A group of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish fourth graders did just that in Chicago, coming together over poetry, arts and crafts, and conversation. Activities included discussion about ways to practice charity and the children's favorite activities, celebrities, sports, and more. According to one event organizer, "We think it's important that kids are ...
New Poll Demonstrates the Importance of Interfaith Contact
A new study by the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) indicates that Americans who interact with Muslims hold more positive views of Muslims. This finding suggests that interfaith contact—the ability to meet and interact with people of different faiths—is essential for breaking down stereotypes and fighting bigotry. Read more (Public Religion Research Institute) ...
How New Friendships Changed a Man’s Mind about Muslims
After the 9/11 attacks, John Dutcher of Omaha, Nebraska decided that he hated Muslims. The problem? He never actually met any. Then, six Muslim refugee families moved into his apartment building and, for the first time, he was in the position to get to know Muslims for himself. According to Dutcher, meeting his new neighbors completely changed his opinion about Muslims. "The Muslims here were all about family and they just loved everyone," Dutcher says. Now, Dutcher takes pride in helping the ...
