Amirah Sackett
the evolution of the movement
We’re Muslim
Don’t Panic
Amirah's art and identity as both a Muslim and American empower her to build bridges between communities, fostering mutual understanding, increased knowledge, awareness, and unity. Since creating ‘We’re Muslim, Don’t Panic” in 2011, she uses her voice fearlessly to combat negative stereotypes about Muslims and educate communities with little or no contact with Muslim communities. Amirah views hip-hop as a transformative art form for both the audience and practitioners, leveraging its power to inspire change and promote inclusivity. Through her work, she continues to challenge misconceptions and create spaces for dialogue and connection.
Interviews With Amirah
BBC Interview 2019
Amirah featured on BBC Morning Live in London with hosts Sean Fletcher and Ria Hebden on August 25, 2019.
CNN Arabic interview 2023
Amirah interviewed on CNN Arabic about her career and the creation of ‘We’re Muslim, Don’t Panic’ on May 23, 2023.
Creative Offerings
Each experience with Amirah Sackett is tailored to your organization’s specific needs. We’ll begin with a consultation to discuss your community's or organization’s goals and design a customized program, whether it’s a one-day event or a full length residency. Here are examples of the diverse engagements Amirah has led across a variety of settings.
Masterclasses & Workshops
Amirah specializes in teaching the foundations of hip-hop dance, integrating technique with an in-depth exploration of hip-hop history and the development of various styles. She is experienced in teaching a range of street styles, including top rock, breaking, popping, locking, and New Jack Swing (90s era dances). Known for her ability to engage students of all ages and skill levels—from beginners to advanced—Amirah is particularly passionate about empowering girls and women, who have been historically underrepresented in these dance styles, to build self-confidence and strength. Her classes are adaptable for any group, including women-only sessions that respect the modesty standards of local communities.
Lectures
Amirah is an experienced lecturer who speaks on a wide range of topics, including her journey as a female Muslim artist, challenging stereotypes about Muslims and Islam, exploring the connection between Hip-Hop and Islam, the history and elements of Hip-Hop, its global impact, the role of arts in the Muslim community, and the intersection of arts with social justice and change-making. Her lectures can be tailored to suit audiences of all backgrounds and ages and can be seamlessly combined with other offerings.
Film Screenings
Amirah has collaborated with Tunisian filmmaker and beatboxer Ahmed Zaghbouni, along with various musicians and dancers, to create a series of captivating short dance films. These films can be featured in exclusive screenings that include a talk-back session and audience Q&A with Amirah, Ahmed, and their creative team. Screenings can also be integrated with other offerings to create a unique experience.
Performance
Amirah presents a dynamic solo show, "We’re Muslim, Don’t Panic," which blends her insightful lecture on misconceptions about Islam and Muslim women with her signature dance performances, a screening of one of her short films, and an engaging audience Q&A. This versatile performance can be customized for schools, theaters, and arts organizations and can also be integrated into other offerings or serve as the grand finale of a longer residency in your community.
Choreography
Amirah particularly loves creating choreography for dancers in established dance companies and university settings. She frequently collaborates with Chicago musician and DJ Nevin Hersch to develop original musical scores that enhance her work. Amirah is available as a choreographer for projects of any scale.
Collaborations
Amirah Sackett and Ahmed Zaghbouni aka MR MiC join forces to bring a fun and energetic performance entitled “BeatBox MEETS Popping”. Ahmed Zaghbouni is an international beatboxer and filmmaker from Sousse, Tunisia. His skilled performance using only his voice as an instrument, always entertains and intrigues the audience. He is proud of his Muslim heritage and the Sufi faith traditions native to his home of Tunisia. These two Muslim artists bonded by faith and their love of hip-hop, offer a counter narrative to the media’s portrayal of Muslims. Both Ahmed and Amirah are dedicated to preserving and sharing hip-hop culture with the next generation and audiences around the world, as well as being examples of using art for social change. Both Amirah and Ahmed can offer workshops teaching dance and beatbox to all levels and ages. This is a great option for schools, universities, and arts organizations. It can be combined with other offerings and can be expanded into a longer artist residency.