MPAC Leaders Explore Roots of Islamophobia at Seeds of Peace Conference

May 23, 2013


Dr. Maher Hathout and Salam Al-Marayati, MPAC’s Senior Adviser and President, led a “Truth Over Fear: Countering Islamophobia” workshop at the recent “Seeds of Peace: Meditation and the Engaged Life” Conference at All Saints Church, Pasadena. It was a day of celebration and solidarity as people from all faiths gathered to share their food, art, prayer, and culture. MPAC would like to thank All Saints Church, Rev. Ed Bacon, and all others who helped make the beautiful afternoon to a success.

The "Truth over Fear" workshop and training session was developed by MPAC to empower local communities with pratical knowledge and tools to counter Islamophobia in a proactive and constructive manner. The hands-on training sessions are composed of two primary components: education and empowerment.

With more than two dozen people from various faiths in attendance, the workshop began with Dr. Hathout explaining the phenomenon of Islamophobia and its origins. Al-Marayati referenced “Fear, Inc.,” a study published by the Center for American Progress that accurately captures the landscape of Islamophobia today.

“We are now faced with this problem -- we understand the extremist Islam very well, but we don’t know moderate Islam,” said one participant, adding that she was raised learning about Islam from a mystical viewpoint, but felt it was not the Islam she was hearing about in the news. She addressed a sentiment felt by most of those in attendance.

If you are interested in continuing this work to dispel misconceptions and enlighten ignorance, schedule a “Truth Over Fear”  workshop or forum at your local community. Please contact us at (213) 383-3443 or email tof@mpac.org.




Help us continue our work with a quick
one-time or monthly donation.

MAKE A DONATION