This project addressed misconceptions and misunderstandings that often appear in outsiders’ judgments. The Milwaukee Public Museum hosted an exhibit that showcased the dress of Muslim women and provided information on the traditions behind the clothing and the reasons why they are worn today. AMWRRI developed and presented the exhibit as well as designed appropriate programming that educated visitors about Muslim women’s clothing and the traditions and values that these items represent. The display incorporated quotations and interpretations of stories, views and explanations collected from local Muslim women. By juxtaposing the clothing items, photographic information, recordings, and transcriptions of real interviews, the project delivered rich and multi-layered stories about clothing, and its relevance to the wearers. The utilization of women’s oral interviews was our acknowledgment of their principal role in making and shaping history for themselves and their communities.
https://www.wisconsinhumanities.org/beyond-the-veil-in-milwaukee
https://www.wisn.com/article/arts-avenue-beyond-the-veil-exhibit-at-milwaukee-public-museum/5950824
https://www.nbc15.com/home/headlines/Milwaukee-Public-Museum-showcases-Muslim-dress-259954371.html
Our project from 2014 titled “Beyond the Vail” was funded in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Humanities Council, with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the State of Wisconsin. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this project do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Wisconsin Humanities Council supports public programs that engage the people of Wisconsin in the exploration of human cultures, ideas and values.The Wisconsin Humanities Council supports and creates programs that use history, culture, and discussion to strengthen community life for everyone in Wisconsin.
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Arab and Muslim Women’s Research and Resource Institute 