Institute for Social Policy and Understanding - ISPU

How do portrayals of Muslims in film and TV shape public attitudes and public policy?

New ISPU research reveals that stereotypes in the media can fuel perceptions of threat, increase support for surveillance, and undermine civil liberties.

In this episode of Deep Dives with ISPU, Dr. Sohad Murrar and ISPU's Saher Selod, PhD explore the real-world impact of representation and why more nuanced portrayals matter for democracy and society. Listen now. https://hubs.li/Q04l5XB90

America’s mosques are far more than places of worship; they serve as civic, educational, and community institutions.

Yet, due to rising rates of Islamophobia, a majority of mosque leaders express concerns about the safety and security of their congregations. According to ISPU's mosque survey, 35% of mosques report significant resistance when attempting to build, expand, or relocate.

Despite these challenges, mosques continue to provide critical services, support families, and strengthen their communities.

Read more findings from ISPU’s Mosque Survey: https://bit.ly/4vD05f5

📅 One week until Rewriting the Script!

Next Friday, June 12, we're bringing together artists, educators, and changemakers to explore how arts and culture can reshape public narratives toward equity, belonging, and collective liberation.

There's still time to secure your tickets!

📍 El Museo del Barrio (New York, NY)
🗓 Friday, June 12, 2026
⏰ 5:30–8:00 PM ET

Register today: https://bit.ly/4xbDnMM

Where do American Muslims fall on the political spectrum?

In ISPU’s American Muslim Poll 2025, we asked respondents whether they consider themselves liberal, moderate, or conservative. The findings show that American Muslims are more likely than the general public to identify as liberal or moderate.

Yet, as one of the most diverse faith communities in the U.S., Muslims bring a wide range of priorities to the ballot box. Their political views and voting decisions are shaped by many factors, including economic issues, foreign policy, civil rights, and concerns affecting their local communities.

Uncover more insights from ISPU’s American Muslim Poll 2025: https://bit.ly/3PEWBtx

We're two weeks away from our summer event in New York City 🎊

Join us and the Arts Administrators of Color Network for an evening of research, storytelling, creative dialogue, and community connection exploring how portrayals in media shape public perception, policy, and democratic belonging.

Artists, cultural workers, educators, advocates, storytellers, and community members are all welcome!

📍 El Museo del Barrio (New York, NY)
🗓 Friday, June 12, 2026
⏰ 5:30–8:00 PM ET

RSVP: https://bit.ly/439Jx2f

As anti-Muslim hate continues to rise, mental health support for Muslim communities has never been more important.

To help meet this need, ISPU has compiled key resources for mental health professionals, educators, and advocates across the U.S. to better support American Muslims with culturally responsive care.

Recommendations include:
➡️ Investing in religious literacy & cultural competency training
➡️ Expanding flexible, accessible mental health services

Learn how you can help support the health and well-being of American Muslim communities in ISPU’s latest report: https://bit.ly/4nYeMXx

✨ Eid Mubarak to all those celebrating today ✨

May this season bring you deep rest, quiet comfort, and the kind of togetherness that carries us all forward.

We are so incredibly proud to honor the families and individuals who made our work possible this year. Because of your support, ISPU’s trusted research is being used to challenge misinformation and ensure Muslim voices and experiences are represented accurately.

Their contribution is a powerful investment in a brighter future for Muslim communities and a stronger America. We invite you to support this work so ISPU's research can continue to bring truth to light.

Donate today: https://bit.ly/4dOKl1m

Surveys about religious groups shape many stories about faith communities, but how are they designed?

Join us and Religion News Association for “Faith by the Numbers,” a conversation with experts from the Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations, Pew Research Center, Public Religion Research Institute, and NORC at the University of Chicago on how religion surveys are conducted and what journalists should know.

📅 June 3, 2026
🕐 12:30 PM ET

Register: https://bit.ly/4tVjff2

The media doesn’t just reflect public perception; it helps shape it. How Muslims are portrayed in TV and film directly influences Americans’ beliefs, attitudes, and actions.

ISPU's Stereotypes on Screen study shows that positive portrayals of Muslims can increase opposition to harmful anti-democratic policies that impact all Americans, regardless of faith.

Better representation leads to better understanding. Learn how nuanced media portrayals can create stronger, more inclusive communities.

Read the full study: https://bit.ly/4utJYR6