ADVOCACY THROUGH THE ARTS
The back story:
As a professional songwriter and producer Ani Zonneveld decided to write and produce an album made of songs that reflected the egalitarian values in the Qur’an, love, compassion, and spirituality while addressing human rights issues such as the disfranchisement of women and girls that occurs in the name of Islam. That album “Ummah Wake Up” was released in 2004 and was her way of inserting a progressive Muslim musical voice into what was then a male dominated, anti-terrorism and hateful climate after 9/11. Unfortunately though, American Muslim retailers would not sell her CD because “a woman’s voice is to be covered” and “you used all the musical instrumentation when Prophet Muhammad only had the percussion” and of course the best excuse, “we love your CD and listen to it at the office all day, but our audience will not accept us selling your CD as a female singer”. It was the anger of being discriminated against and at the misogyny that persists to this day, that led to birth of Muslims for Progressive Values.
Muslim Musical Mosaic
Draws from the diversity of Muslim American to present a picture of contemporary Muslim America through music, spoken word, rap and dance.
Partnerships
MPV has partnered with a number of organizations over the years, including Los Angeles Gay Men’s Chorus.
Coming Out Muslim
A 5 city show written and performed by two Muslim women who share their experience of being queer and Muslim.
Mosaic
A thought provoking presentation of songs, dance, poetry, spoken words and comedy performed by Muslim artists,
It’s Your Mic
A monthly program that created a safe space for youth and young adultsto be creative and feel valued, empowered, and celebrated.
Music
Publications of verse and music by Ani Zonneveld, MPV’s founder and president.