[link removed]

Dear John,

History was made last night for Asian talent and for all minority communities, as Everything Everywhere All at Once ([link removed]) received the most Oscars, including Best Picture, during last night's awards ceremonies. Michelle Yeoh became the first Asian woman to win an Oscar in the Best Actress in a Leading Role category. Despite the fact that narratives by and about minority communities still have a long way to go to be recognized, we are inspired by last night's historic wins and congratulate all the nominees and winners. We know that one day, Muslim-led projects will also sweep the Oscars.

While the film that we’ve been championing, Stranger at the Gate, did not win the Oscar last night, we applaud Joshua Seftel ([link removed]) , Executive Producer/Nobel Prize Winner Malala Yousafzai ([link removed]) , and the entire film team for telling a story of kindness, forgiveness, and humanity. The film strongly expressed the message that love will always win.

As consulting producers, MPAC President Salam Al-Marayati and I are proud to have collaborated on the film and we will continue to support stories that promote Muslims and Islam authentically and accurately.

The world needs to see this film as recent polls have shown that 53% of Americans have unfavorable views toward Islam ([link removed]) . The message behind Stranger at the Gate will help counter anti-Muslim bigotry and will live on in the hearts of those who believe love conquers hate.

If you haven’t seen the film yet, you can watch it here ([link removed]) . You will be proud of it, too.

In Peace,

Sue Obeidi
Director, Hollywood Bureau
P.S. Excited to see the MPAC Hollywood Bureau as Executive Producers for an Oscar-nominated short film? Click here to support our ongoing work in Hollywood. ([link removed])

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