About Debbie Almontaser

Dr. Debbie Almontaser is an internationally recognized educator, speaker, author, and advocate for cross-cultural understanding. As the Founder and CEO of Bridging Cultures Group, she is a respected community leader dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity. Over her extensive 25-year career in the NYC Public School System, Dr. Almontaser has held various roles, including special education teacher, literacy trainer, multicultural specialist, and diversity advisor. Notably, she established the Khalil Gibran International Academy in Brooklyn, NY, fostering an environment of cross-cultural understanding among students. Dr. Almontaser's influence extends beyond education. She played a vital role in incorporating Muslim holidays into the NYC school system and advocating for halal/kosher food options. Her strong opposition to policies like stop-and-frisk and the NYPD Muslim surveillance program led to the dismantling of the controversial NYPD Demographics Unit.

All Posts by Debbie

Why the Media Only Sees Faith in a...

Faith Beyond the Headlines Faith rarely makes headlines when it is quietly... read more

5 Ways Newsrooms Can Improve Faith Coverage in...

What My Community Taught Me About Faith & Media—and What 2026 Demands... read more

What Research Really Shows About Religion and Mental...

Faith and Flourishing: The Untold Story of Well‑Being That Media Still Misses... read more

Why Media Must Get Smarter About Holiday Faith...

Season of Light, Many Paths: Why Religious Diversity Education Must Guide Holiday... read more

When Faith Steps In: How NYDIS Builds Belonging...

When Crisis Meets Courage: How New York Disaster Interfaith Services (NYDIS) Redeems... read more

Headlines of Faith: When Media Gets It Wrong...

I have often said that headlines shape our imaginations before we even... read more

Finding Faith in The Kite Runner’s Story of...

Faithfully Framed: When a Movie Holds a Mirror to the Soul Some... read more

Faith Isn’t Silent: Why Media Must Stop Ignoring...

Covering the Crossroads: Faith at the Center of Today’s Biggest Issues Reclaiming... read more

Islamic Ethics Call Leaders to Serve, Not Rule

Stewards, Not Sovereigns: An Islamic Reflection on Power and Political Duty In... read more

Can Tech And Media Get Faith Right In...

Faith in the Digital Age: Ensuring Accuracy in Emerging Media In today's... read more

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