Civics/Current Events

Discuss what would have happened to Hassan, Fatima, Nargis and Zahra if their journey brought them to the United States instead of the European Union. Compare what would have happened to what you think shouldhappen. Share conclusions or opinions with your representatives in Congress.

Study U.S. involvement in Afghanistan and the current relationship with the Taliban. Discuss whether the United States should refuse to negotiate with the Taliban unless it agrees to adhere to basic human rights standards for Afghan citizens (so that people like Hassan and Fatima would be free to make films or run a café without having to fear for their lives).

History

Compare the experiences of the Fazili family to what you’ve learned about refugees fleeing Russian pogroms in the late 1800s or the Nazis during the 1930s. Include comparisons of 1) the reason for fleeing; 2) the conditions of the journey; and 3) the reception from other countries.

Media Production/Media Literacy

Use a cell phone to document a personal journey (either metaphoric or real). Discuss what you learned from making your own film that helped you better understand or appreciate the clips you viewed from Midnight Traveler.

English/Language Arts

Read a literary account of a refugee’s journey. Discuss what you found compelling in the film and in the printed text, noting the techniques use by each medium to convey emotions as well as facts.