20,000 Dialogues is one of UPF's outreach programs focusing on increasing interfaith conversations and acceptance. Three hundred professors showed Inside Islam to their college classes, and the film was met with largely positive feedback. Here are some samples:
Maciej, a student at Baruch College, shared, "Muslims are misunderstood, due to how the media portrays them, based on the actions of a small group of extremists. Because of the media, the actions of a small group have created a universal misconception of the overall larger group."
University of Georgia student, Erin, echoed, "We cannot stereotype a group based on some radicals' actions, so acquiring knowledge is important for there to be peace and understanding towards the religion."
Ronnie of St. Lawrence University articulated, "Radicalism in the Muslim world is about politics not religion...and very few Americans understand what Muslims think."
"Inside Islam bridges the gap of xenophobia by demonstrating how moderate most Muslims are. If individuals watch this film, they will become more educated, leading to a more informed voter base," explained Nathan after viewing the film at his school, William Jewell College.
Calvin Seminary's Micah explained that Inside Islam reaffirmed what he already knew. "Inside Islam gives a scientific basis for promoting understanding of Muslims. Now, I have a scientific way to back up some of my beliefs about Islam that have come from my interactions with Muslim friends."
After watching Inside Islam at Georgian Court University, Lara said, "We must become more understanding in order to make more allies rather than enemies. This film can also help people to become more diverse and accepting of people that are different, if we only opened our minds."
Screenings of UPF's films in colleges and universities yielded over 90% in positive feedback, and hopefully further viewings will have similar results. The movies provide insights to Islam that present a more objective viewpoint aimed at belying Islamophobic ideologies.