MUSLIM PUBLIC AFFAIRS COUNCIL

The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) seeks "to establish a vibrant American Muslim community that will enrich American society through promoting the Islamic values of Mercy, Justice, Peace, Human Dignity, Freedom, and Equality for all." MPAC's work involves educating Muslim and non-Muslims alike to the issues facing the American Muslim community such as the Patriot Act, hate crimes, terrorism/counter-terrorism, and the Israeli-Palestinian dispute to name a few. Last year the Immigration and Naturalization Service began the mandatory registration of all young men from primarily Muslim nations. MPAC stepped forward to monitor the INS to make sure the rights of those being registered were protected and it organized NCRR and others to help. MPAC is also involved in humanitarian causes such as seeking aid for the recent earthquake victims in lran.

MPAC has reached out to establish dialogues with other Muslims groups, Christians, Jews and representatives of other faith communities and works with these groups on issues related to peace and justice. Since 2001, MPAC and NCRR have built a strong friendship through working on "Break the Fast " a dinner and cultural exchange held at Senshin Buddhist Temple. Held during the holy month of Ramadan, Break the Fast recently feafured performances by Great Leap and has become more successful with each passing year.