Chapter 7 – North Africa and Southwest Asia

Inside Mecca (2003, Length: 57:00) (Streaming through Films on Demand)

Though dated, this documentary provides a fascinating inside look at the pilgrimage to Mecca through the eyes of several different pilgrims making the journey. Connects with section 7.3.

He Named Me Malala (2015, Length: 1:28:00) (Streaming)

Lesson plan guides: https://journeysinfilm.org/product/he-named-me-malala/

After surviving a Taliban assassination attempt for advocating girls’ education, Pakistani teenager Malala Yousafzai becomes a global champion for children’s rights and the youngest Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. Connects with section 7.5.

For Sama (2019, Length: 1:35:40) (PBS)

A powerful and deeply personal documentary by filmmaker Waad al-Kateab, capturing her life in war-torn Aleppo as she documents the Syrian conflict, falls in love, starts a family, and bids farewell to her city. Please note: This award-winning film contains intense, graphic violence. Connects with section 7.5.

The Neighborhood Storyteller (2022, Length: 49:00) (PBS)

Lesson plan guides: https://journeysinfilm.org/product/the-neighborhood-storyteller/

In this documentary, Syrian refugee Asmaa Rashed launches a read-aloud project in a Jordanian camp, empowering girls, challenging cultural barriers, and turning hardship into resilience and self-growth. Connects with section 7.5.

Promises (2001, Length: 1:46:00) (Streaming)

This documentary offers a poignant look at life in Jerusalem through the eyes of seven Israeli and Palestinian children, revealing the deep divisions of the Middle East conflict while capturing moments of hope as some dare to bridge their separate worlds. Connects with section 7.6.