The Role of Arts and Culture in Countering Islamophobia

Tuesday, October 18, 2:00pm – 4:30pm*

Organized and moderated by Sunita Iqbal, Program Assistant, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

Presented by Tricia Heuring, Curator, Public Functionary; Mohamud Mumin, Artist; and Aamera Siddiqui, Playwright, Performer, and Artistic Director, Exposed Brick Theater.

Islamophobia in America is more prevalent today than it was immediately following 9/11, having a profound effect on numerous ethnic populations. There is an urgent need to promote cross-cultural understanding and protect the civil liberties of affected populations. Efforts to counter Islamophobia continue to fall mostly under the purview of grassroots, social justice organizations, human rights agencies, and umbrella advocacy groups. The role of arts and culture in this realm is seemingly limited — we need to support a stronger narrative. In partnership with local Twin Cities artists and colleagues, this off-site session will explore regional arts and cultural efforts that build public awareness of issues facing Muslim, Arab, and South Asian (MASA) residents, foster community building, and promote intercultural programming.

This session will be held at Public Functionary.

*Off-site session schedule:

• 1:45: Group gathers in Great River Court
• 1:50: Bus loads
• 2:00: Bus departs from hotel
• 2:30 – 4:00: Session
• 4:00 – 4:20: Site visit
• 4:30: Bus departs to hotel