Institute for Social Policy and Understanding
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The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) is an independent, nonpartisan research organization specializing in addressing the most pressing challenges facing the American Muslim community and in bridging the information gap between the American Muslim community and the wider society. ISPU conducts timely, relevant, objective, empirical research and offers actionable recommendations to inform community change agents, the media, the general public and policy makers.
History
ISPU was founded in Detroit, Michigan in the wake of the tragic September 11, 2001 attacks at a time when journalists, government officials, and the general public increasingly sought to educate themselves about Muslims. Yet, there was a scarcity of reliable data and sound policy analysis. ISPU was created to fill this major information gap.
Mission
ISPU's mission is to conduct rigorous, relevant research and, based on that research, to provide implementable recommendations that advance three broad goals:
- Building Bridges through Public Policy: To bolster American democracy by strengthening American Muslims’ contributions to it
- Catalyzing Positive Change through Social Policy: To improve the social and economic welfare of all Americans by strengthening the American Muslim community and its ability to contribute fully to America’s growth
- Fostering Scholarship through thought Leadership: To strengthen America’s intellectual leadership by leading innovative thinking on the American Muslim Community
Research
In a post 9/11 world, American Muslims face numerous challenges that prevent individuals from realizing their full potential. Some of these challenges are externally imposed as a result of the current geopolitical climate and widespread misunderstanding of Islam and Muslims. But, many day-to-day challenges facing the community are internally generated and experienced. ISPU addresses both sets of challenges.
ISPU conducts original applied research on challenges identified by the American Muslim community, with a focus on demographics, the family, young people and community leadership and organization building. ISPU’s researchers work with community change agents, create actionable recommendations and profile positive, implementable solutions. ISPU also provides thought leadership by convening the most prominent thinkers and scholars on identified issue areas. Through op-eds, panels and webinars, ISPU offers a neutral space for leading experts and stakeholders to debate current hot topics in order to raise awareness and discover potential solutions. Lastly, ISPU seeks areas for collaboration with other marginalized groups by conducting research on shared challenges in order to inform strategic and collaborative action.
