Interfaith Broadcasting Commission

The Interfaith Broadcasting Commission (IBC), founded in 1986, has been unwavering in its goal of fostering global understanding of religion. Since our inception, we have supplied television programming and guidance to the three major networks--ABC, CBS, and NBC--with the sole purpose of introducing and informing viewing audiences about various religions and the social initiatives they undertake worldwide. The IBC is unique in its vision and reach. As a media organization, it advances international acknowledgement and support of religion, with wider viewership than any comparable initiative. The IBC is a cooperative venture of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim organizations. Our documentaries illuminate faith precepts for American audiences, from "Everyone Prays at Holy Etchmiadzin," examining the tenants and rituals of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church, to "Trailblazers in Habits," presenting a historical overview of the work of the MaryKnoll Sisters in China and Japan during the last century. In addition, IBC provides ABC and NBC with Christmas and Easter liturgical specials, each spotlighting a different house of worship and Christian denomination. The IBC has established itself as a media leader devoted to enhancing a public understanding of the positive and transformative social justice work in which many faith-based communities engage. These messages are critical additions to the mainstream conversation on faith in the United States and around the globe, one that often frames faith solely as the cause of tension, inequality, and violence. Our commitment to promoting religious dialogue and understanding through media has resulted in strong relationships with a wide variety of faith leaders and groups. The IBC's faith group partners share our desire to inform, inspire, and effect positive change, but they lack the necessary distribution platforms to make their work visible. Thus, the IBC is an irreplaceable conduit.