Documentary Film, "Ties that Bind," Highlights Women's Interfaith Connections; Screenings Bring Together Diverse Audiences Across the U.S.

September 10, 2006

Source: CBS2Chicago

http://cbs2chicago.com/topstories/local_story_253213829.html

On September 10, 2006 CBS2Chicago reported, "In the days and years following 9/11, many in the Muslim community found themselves on the attack. As CBS 2’s Joanie Lum reports, Muslims gathered on the eve of the 5th anniversary to share their experiences now documented in a new movie. Seven Chicago women from different religious and ethnic backgrounds use a ball of yarn to find out that their moral values are interwoven. That's the message of the documentary, 'Ties That Bind.' The Muslim American Society hosted a preview and discussion of the film at a mosque in Bridgeview. 'This one's about, what do we have in common? What do we have to connect between us?' said Executive Producer Ann Feldman. Participants from all faiths talked about race, ethnicity and stereotypes. 'Growing up in America like everyone else and to be profiled so negatively when you don't have ties with the Muslim world as much as America,' said Nazia Naqbi. Muslim Americans suffered suspicion and condemnation right after 9/11, but say they've spent the last five years trying to build trust. 'We no longer can isolate ourselves from the community at large. We have a lot to do in public education,' said Ahmed Elkhaldy with the Muslim American Society. This might seem like a small group but discussions like these, involving Muslims, Jews and Christians, are taking place in 22 American cities. Organizers say that is both historic and hopeful."