There’s no getting around it, people have a hard time accepting those who aren’t like themselves. Religious and cultural differences make many people uncomfortable, and often simple markers like dress and color of skin are enough to trigger the discomfort. True in all countries, and in times of economic and political uncertainty, things get ugly. Currently, Muslims are one of the biggest targets of discrimination and the U.S., for all it’s “melting pot” history, is far from exempt from the problem. Ping Chong & Co. are one of many groups attempting to bring a better understanding to this perplexing problem. Their “Beyond Sacred: Voices of Muslim Identity” is a fast-paced, touching and informative theater piece; part personal history with stories about the Muslim American experience as told by actors, and part broader history lesson about the many contributions Muslims have made in human development and the price many have paid because of discrimination. Listening is the key to living together in peace, and this is a good place to start.