LOS ANGELES — Before a full house last weekend, the Muslim Public Affairs Council honored acclaimed actress Hiam Abbass for her portrayal of Hind al-Husseini in the film “Miral,” the thought-provoking legal drama “The Good Wife,” and the poignant documentary “Fordson.” In a night filled with celebration and emotional moments, the honorees thanked American Muslims for their support and shared the inspiration behind their projects.

Award winners included ‘Fordson’ director Rashid Ghazi (third from left).

More than 400 people gathered on Saturday evening to honor these voices of courage and conscience and to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Media Awards Gala. The crowd was brought to its feet several times, as each honoree’s work was celebrated for the mark it made in raising public awareness about Muslims and broader social justice issues.

 To a joyous standing ovation, the first award of the night, presented by Pakistani American actor and 2010 Media Award recipient Faran Tahir, was given to Rashid Ghazi and Ash-har Quraishi, the director and producer of “Fordson.” Attendees were moved by this touching documentary that depicts the life of the Fordson High School football team in Dearborn, MI, as they deal with their biggest football game of the season while fasting during the last 10 days of Ramadan.

 The second award was given to the writers and executive producers of CBS’ legal drama “The Good Wife,” Leonard Dick and Ted Humphrey, for their humanizing portrayal of Muslims and Islam in two episodes – “On Tap” and “Boom.” Actor, activist and 2003 Media Award recipient Mike Farrell, the legendary star of “M*A*S*H,” presented the award to the duo.

 The final award of the evening was presented by “Amreeka” director and 2010 Media Award recipient Cherien Dabis to the movie “Miral.” The movie’s lead actress Abbass who depicts al-Husseini, who founded a girls school, flew from the Middle East to accept the award. Following a standing ovation, Abbass was moved to tears saying that she was touched by being honored by such an accepting community.

In an effort to promote positive and accurate portrayals of Islam and Muslims, MPAC each year recognizes voices of courage and conscience who are the best in their field. Since 1991, MPAC has honored artists, actors, authors and activists for their artistic contributions to tolerance and diversity. MPAC’s Media Awards is a production of its Hollywood Bureau, which serves as a resource and ally to television networks, film studios, screenwriters and the creative community at large.

Founded in 1988, MPAC is an American institution which informs and shapes public opinion and policy by serving as a trusted resource to decision makers in government, media and policy institutions. MPAC is also committed to developing leaders with the purpose of enhancing the political and civic participation of Muslim Americans.