For Educators: A Tanzanian in Brooklyn

“A Tanzanian In Brooklyn”

It is important to frame this video as part of a larger project about Bridge the Gap’s initiative to expose youth to other parts of the world. This video is not intended to offer a “right or wrong” way of being, but rather to illustrate different ways of living and being.

It is key to create a trusting and respectful environment for dialogue. It may be useful to create “ground rules” for how to proceed in this discussion. For example, clarify up front how one is to express disagreement and how we are to share ideas and perspectives, but not argue. Suggest that participants use “I” statements when expressing an opinion. Learning often occurs when we disagree; it is part of the process! Ask for honesty from the group and expect different perspectives to surface. The goal is not always to agree, but to understand where our ideas come from and be willing and open to reflecting upon the dialogue that takes place.

• Why might Abdu have been disturbed by Chris’ breakfast?

• Who did you relate to – Chris or Abdu? Why?

• Would you feel uncomfortable if you saw a man holding another man’s hand? If yes, where might this discomfort come from?

• Abdu speaks English very well. However, what linguistic challenges does he experience?

• What did you find surprising in this video?

• What was the b-boys’ response to Abdu’s dancing?

• Did you expect that Abdu would want to return to Tanzania? Why or why not?

• How did you interpret Abdu’s comments about Americans being alone while Africans are like a family?

• Abdu says that American culture has its problems. What might he have meant by this?

• Given what you knew about Tanzania before this seeing this video, did your opinion of Tanzania and Tanzanians change? If so, how?

Developed by Melibee Global Education Consulting