The Obeidi-Alsultany Test
1.
The project that includes a Muslim character(s) does not reproduce or reinvent old tropes but rather explores new stories and contexts.
2.
The project that includes Muslim character(s) has a Muslim-identifying writer on staff to ensure that Muslim cultures, religion, characters and storylines are being portrayed accurately and authentically.
3.
The Muslim character(s) is not solely defined by their religion. Religion can be part of the character’s backstory but should not be their entire story. Muslim culture and faith should be accurately delineated.
4.
The Muslim character(s) has a strong presence and the character(s) is essential to the story arc and has a rich and clearly defined backstory.
5.
The Muslim character(s) is portrayed with diverse backgrounds and identities.
Sue Obeidi is the director of the Muslim Public Affairs Council’s (MPAC) Hollywood Bureau. Evelyn Alsultany is an associate professor at the University of Southern California’s Dornsife College and scholar of representations of Muslims in the U.S. media.