I am happy to announce ten awards of $1,000 each to prevent Islamophobia, or anti-Muslim prejudice, discrimination, and violence, in Greater Indianapolis.

Highly original projects are sought from local writers, community activists, artists, religious congregations, public school teachers, dancers, community volunteers, philosophers, amateur historians, linguists, musicians, healers, social workers, poets, non-profit groups, and others.

Projects can include performance, social media, debate, dialogue, the production of objects, sound, consciousness-raising, teaching, websites, and so on. They might focus on the political, social, cultural, or religious roots of Islamophobia, including anti-Muslim think tanks, federal surveillance and counter-intelligence, media bias, U.S. foreign policy, and cultural and religious stereotypes.

Collaborations between Muslims and non-Muslims are especially welcome. All individuals who are not currently employed by or enrolled at IUPUI are eligible to apply. Applicants must submit three- to four-page, double-spaced, carefully crafted proposals that outline (1) what the project is, (2) who will be involved, (3) who the audiences will be, (4) how the project will be accomplished, (5) where it will take place, (6) how it will be marketed, and (7) why it is likely to reduce anti-Muslim prejudice and discrimination. A timeline should be included.

Proposals are due by Sept. 1, 2017, with notification of awards expected by Sept. 15, 2017. All projects must be implemented sometime between October 1, 2017, and May 1, 2018. Please send inquiries and/or final proposals to Prof. Edward Curtis, ecurtis4@iupui.edu. Proposals must be sent as a Microsoft Word file or PDF attachment to an email. The email must include the applicant’s address and phone number.

Half of the award will be payable immediately, with the other half contingent upon completion of the project.