Validation of Our Impact

The construct of all programming of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom is based on the theory of change of contact and extend contact effects.  While there is ample research support for the idea that better relationships among individuals lead to better inter-group attitudes (contact effects), it is certainly important to verify that these research studies extend to real world settings.  As such, an independent study was conducted in December 2018 by Civil Politics among 405 Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom chapter members to obtain evidence as to how research on contact and extended contact effects maps to the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom.

The findings indicate that members do indeed report better inter-group attitudes.  As you can see below, most surveyed members self-report that they feel more comfort with others, are more dedicated to speaking out against divisive rhetoric, and are more committed to protect the stranger.

Women who are members of a Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom chapter perceive that they share much more in common than differences between groups.

Research does indicate that those who hear about others making friends across groups also have their attitudes affected (e.g. this work on extended contact effects).  This would therefore indicate that members of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom have a positive impact on non-members’ attitudes towards Muslims and Jews. While we were not able to survey those who have heard about this work from members, we did ask members how much they told others about their experiences.  Virtually all, or 96% of those researched, are proud to tell others that they participate in an interfaith program with Muslim and Jewish women and 91% state that they often tell others about their participation.

Importantly, 92% state that they are likely to recommend that a friend or family member become involved in the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. On average, members tell 23 other people outside their chapter about their experience.