In an effort to change the perceptions non-Muslims might have about Islam and Muslims, a new project launched Saturday in Wisconsin to offer people a glimpse into the lives of Muslim Wisconsinites.
The Wisconsin Muslim Project encompasses a traveling photography show and a PBS Wisconsin special meant to build bridges between Muslims and non-Muslims in Wisconsin.
The goal is to create educational resources to highlight contributions of Muslims in Wisconsin and produce media content about countering misrepresentations.
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“Generally speaking, some people have misconceptions about Islam and Muslim, so this whole thing is designed to change it,” Masood Akhtar, president and founder of nonprofit “We Are Many – United Against Hate”, told NBC.
“Whether there are portraits we are trying to do, engagement that we’re talking about, or doing whatever is necessary.”
The project is funded by a grant from the Doris Duke Foundation through the Building Bridges Program.
It brings together three Wisconsin-based partners, namely PBS Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition, and We Are Many – United Against Hate nonprofit.
The exhibition focuses on 16 Muslim Wisconsinites and their families, telling their stories to connect communities.