Assalamu alaykum and Ramadan Kareem! The prevailing circumstances in Palestine have created an opportunity to better reflect on my relationship with the Almighty and what’s important for humankind. I hope this blessed month has been everything you wanted it to be.
As many of you might know, Muslims hold the belief that the Quran was revealed during the month of Ramadan, with the first verse descending upon Jabal Al-Nour (Mountain of Light) in Mecca. With this first verse, the beginning of the final revelation was told.
Lately, I have been deeply contemplating the proverb "If the Mountain won't come to Muhammad, then Muhammad must go to the Mountain.” While to some, this adage may hold different meanings, to me, it speaks to the essence of perseverance and initiative. It is a powerful reminder that success often requires us to step outside of our comfort zones and make things happen, rather than waiting for circumstances to align in our favor.
Vice Chair of MPAC Hollywood Bureau, Habib Veera,
making opening remarks at the Sundance Film Festival
In late January, the MPAC Hollywood Bureau had the honor, once again, to participate in the Sundance Film Festival in Utah. Among the festival’s traditions is the phrase "See you on the Mountain," which is what festival goers say before their arrival. It may sound a bit cheesy but I have found myself growing accustomed to the sentiment over the years. As I was preparing to leave for Utah this year, it struck me that there is a connection between storytelling and mountains. While we are obviously not Prophets, I can't help but reflect on the significance of the revelation of the first verse on the mountain, which marked the first "story" in the Quran, and the work we are currently doing to elevate our stories at festivals like Sundance.
Please consider a gift of $300 this Ramadan so we can continue changing hearts and minds through storytelling.
The reality is that much like many other industries, the entertainment industry was not initially designed with Muslims and other marginalized communities in mind. However, the very essence of inclusivity is embedded in the fabric of our existence as creations of God. Just as we draw inspiration from the progress of other communities who have paved the way, we are actively reshaping the narrative of American Muslims in our own way. Storytelling is in our DNA, it is part of our legacy as Muslims, and whether we are in Mecca, Hollywood, or Washington, D.C., we are working as an organization to change hearts and minds and actions.
Our work in the entertainment industry plays a crucial role in changing narratives and shaping public discourse. The current war in Palestine has presented opportunities for conversation with executives and creatives. We have been making presentations that are educating those in greenlighting positions about the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians, including issues such as displacement, occupation, human rights violations, and lack of self-determination. These have been tough conversations and not always received with open hearts, but they are being had, nonetheless.
At the end of the day, thanks to your generous support we are making change happen through our impactful work. This Ramadan, as we ascend the spiritual mountains of fasting and prayer, please continue to be trailblazers and contribute a part of your annual Zakat to MPAC.
Founded in 1988, the Muslim Public Affairs Council improves public understanding and policies that impact American Muslims by engaging our government, media, and communities.
