Press release

Azimuth Media Receives Grant from Corp. for Public Broadcasting
"Crossroads" Initiative for Show on Muslim and Arab Comics

For Immediate Release: September 21, 2005
Contact: Glenn Baker 20-.797-5265

Azimuth Media, an independent division of the World Security Institute, has been awarded a research and development grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for STAND UP: Muslim-American Comics Come of Age.

The program will explore the emergence of Muslim-American and Arab-American comedians in the wake of 9/11 by showcasing their humor and the everyday tribulations that provide material for their acts. It will chronicle their struggle to enter the American comic mainstream as they take on stereotypes about Middle Easterners and terrorism. Ranging from devout Muslims to secular provocateurs, these comics embody the diversity of America’s large Middle Eastern population. Following in the footsteps of Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor, and Margaret Cho, they are using stand-up comedy to make a case for their inclusion in the American public square.

A 13-minute sample reel is available for those interested in supporting further development and production of the one-hour documentary.

Read the CPB Crossroads press release announcing R&D grant recipients here.