Muncie, Indiana is probably best known for being where Bob Ross shot his beloved public access painting show. Over the past few decades, it has become notable for its refugee population. Many hailing from Afghanistan and Iraq, the refugee population of Muncie noted the need for a place of worship and came together to build the town’s first Islamic community center. Enter Mac McKinney, a man who spent half his life in the Marines fighting in Arabic-speaking countries, programmed to believe that such people are the enemy and nothing more.
Hearing of the creation of a mosque in his town, he was incensed and began putting into action a plan to bomb the religious institution. His goal was terror. One day, on a fact-finding mission, he entered the Islamic center and began speaking with some of the people there. The kindness these people showed him gave him pause, and, little by little, he slowly changed his mind, eventually converting to the religion.
Stranger at the Gate is an interesting study, but it isn’t without its flaws. I think, first and foremost, they reduce a pressing systemic issue into an interpersonal one. Mac’s bigotry is almost entirely glossed over and even sympathized with to a point, and they never really get to the core of the problem: By design, young men go into the US armed forces and are programmed with anti-Muslim bigotry, and when they return home to the multicultural melting pot that is America, there is no deprogramming process.
By reducing this issue to a “this man had a problem and the kindness of others fixed him” narrative, the filmmakers turn what could be a hard hitting and honest documentary into an utter fluff piece. Those looking for case studies on hatred or infotainment about Muslims in America may particularly enjoy this short documentary, but library patrons and students who are looking for serious discussion around bigotry and anti-Muslim sentiment in America should be directed to other titles. Strong Optional Purchase.
How can Stranger at the Gate be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
Stranger at the Gate is a thought-provoking exploration of bigotry, personal transformation, and interfaith understanding. Public libraries could include it in collections focusing on social issues, American cultural studies, and religion. The documentary could also complement programming during events like Interfaith Harmony Week or discussions on overcoming prejudice and promoting inclusion.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using Stranger at the Gate?
This documentary would be valuable in courses on sociology, psychology, religious studies, conflict resolution, and cultural anthropology. It could also be a useful resource for military studies programs analyzing the cultural impact of military service on returning veterans or communication courses exploring the power of storytelling to address prejudice.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use Stranger at the Gate in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation programs could screen Stranger at the Gate as part of community dialogue initiatives to promote understanding and inclusivity. Paired with workshops or panel discussions featuring interfaith leaders or veterans, the film could foster conversations about bridging cultural and religious divides.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening Stranger at the Gate?
Organizations planning to screen Stranger at the Gate in public settings, such as libraries, universities, or community centers, should secure Public Performance Rights (PPR). This ensures compliance with copyright laws and broadens access for audiences interested in its themes of redemption and interfaith harmony.
How could Stranger at the Gate enhance special events on college campuses?
College campuses could use Stranger at the Gate as a centerpiece for events promoting diversity and inclusion. It could be included in interfaith dialogue series, anti-hate workshops, or cultural awareness events, with post-screening discussions featuring students, faculty, and community leaders to reflect on its themes.