Post 9/11 Research Points to Shift in Public Awareness of Arabs, Muslims and South Asians 10/24/2002
From: Diane Powers of the National Conference for Community and Justice, 202-682-2322 ext. 23 or email: dpowers@nccj.org; or Chris Lisi, 202-828-9751, email: lisic@fleishman.com, for NCCJ WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 -- The National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) today launched a national public service campaign challenging all Americans to join the fight against prejudice in their communities. In addition, NCCJ in partnership with The Roper Center of Public Opinion Research, released public opinion research findings addressing intergroup relations post September 11. Both announcements were made during an event held at the National Press Club. "Every person, every day, has the opportunity to change their perspective, recognize our similarities and value our differences," said author and social justice activist Dr. Maya Angelou, who serves as the voice of NCCJ's campaign. "For 75 years, NCCJ has effectively worked to end discrimination in our communities on the local and national level and I am proud to support their important work." The video public service announcement, which encourages all individuals to consider their role in fighting bias, bigotry and racism, is currently airing in several major U.S. markets and is supported by print and radio campaign advertisements. Actor Tony Plana will voice a second version of the Spanish-speaking radio spot to air later this year. "The events of September 11 were a devastating reminder that there is still a lot of hate in the world," said Sanford Cloud Jr., President and CEO of NCCJ. "In addition to old victims of discrimination, there are now new victims of Arab, Muslim and South Asian descent. It is our hope that this important campaign will elevate this issue on the national agenda and demonstrate the critical role we all play in fighting bias, bigotry and racism." In partnership with The Roper Center for Public Opinion Research, NCCJ presented research findings entitled, Intergroup Relations: Before and After 9/11 -- A Review of the Public Opinion Data." Key findings presented include: -- A Considerable Shift In The Study Of Intergroup Relations By Public Opinion Researchers Since 9/11. -- A Significant Increase In The Amount Of Polling Done On Arabs, Arab Americans, Muslims, And Muslim Americans. -- New Surveys That Were Conducted About Groups Other Than Muslims And People Of Middle Eastern Descent Showed No Significant Changes From Those Conducted Before The Tragedy. -- The Numbers Demonstrate That Even In The Aftermath Of What Many Have Seen As A World-Changing Event, Whites And African Americans Continue To View The World, And Each Other, Through Different Lenses Respective Of Their Own Ethnic Backgrounds. "The impact September 11th has had on intergroup relations in America is dramatic," said Dr. Lisa Parmelee, editor and assistant director of The Roper Center for Public Opinion Research. "Our research shows that in the shadow of great national tragedy, the divisions of race and ethnicity continue to run deep and the perceived increase in racial and ethnic unity is superficial." For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit http://www.nccj.org. About NCCJ For 75 years, The National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) has been dedicated to fighting bias, bigotry and racism and promoting understanding and respect for all persons. Formerly known as The National Conference of Christians and Jews, NCCJ today serves more than 60 regions in 34 states and the District of Columbia. It strives to make communities more inclusive and just through its advocacy, conflict resolution and education initiatives with news media and advertising, government and faith leaders. SOURCE: The National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) |