Readers of Imagine 2050 are all too familiar with the seriousness of prejudice against American Muslims and how organized networks of hate are working overtime to stoke fear and spread lies. In response, Aasif Mandvi is launching a new web-series called Halal in the Family to challenge the stereotypes and misinformation that harm Muslims and communities associated with Muslims.
“Halal in the Family will expose a broad audience to some of the realities of being Muslim in America,” Aasif says. “By using satire we will encourage people to reconsider their assumptions about Muslims, while providing a balm to those experiencing Islamophobia. I also hope those Uncles and Aunties out there will crack a smile!”
Over the past year, Aasif and his creative team have been developing the sitcom parody about an “all-American” Muslim family. Each of the four episodes focuses on a different challenge including surveillance and spying on Muslims, online bullying and hate networks, media bias and the use of anti-Muslim prejudice for political gain. The series will be a useful tool for existing campaigns to combat Islamophobia.
“In order to change the conversation about Muslims in American media we need a diverse, unified movement of people who are willing to take a stand against anti-Muslim bias,” Aasif says. “By fueling a portion of this project with donations from across the country we will demonstrate that thousands of people are fed up with the treatment of American Muslims.”
Imagine 2050, with the Center for New Community, is a proud supporter of Halal in the Family and we’re excited to say that we’re almost there. We need just $20,000 more to wrap up this project. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Spread the word! Send this email to your friends and encourage them to support Halal in the Family.
- Donate! Make a contribution to the Indiegogo campaign and get cool perks, including signed copies of Aasif’s new book and invitations to the launch party.
- Stay up to date! Follow Halal in the Family on Facebook and on Twitter (@aasif & #HalalintheFamily) for updates and share with your friends on social media.