We are saddened by the passing of Dr. Jack Shaheen. Author, academic, activist and advocate. Dr. Shaheen dedicated his life to raise awareness about bigotry, orientalism and stereotyping of Arabs. His book, Reel Bad Arabs: How Hollywood Vilifies a People, was groundbreaking in highlighting how Arabs and Muslims are depicted in American media.

He was an advisor, mentor and trusted figure to many in our community – his smile would literally light up a room. On a special evening in November 2007, as key note speaker at the NAAP National Conference in NYC, he spoke to us about our promise and potential to impact change.