"We Came as Refugees: An American Story" (individual-use licenses)

Educational Tools to Dispel Misperceptions Among Kids and Adults About Refugees in the United States

Every year, thousands of refugees call the United States their new home. While refugees come from all over the world, their experiences and challenges moving to a new country are in many ways similar — screening processes, cultural orientation, navigating the health care system and learning English. Refugees can face many misconceptions and challenges in their new country. 

Researchers with the Refugee Integration Project at the University of Missouri-St. Louis spent 12 months documenting such critical shifts, moments, and experiences of refugee resettlement. Built on the stories that emerged, this research-based play and supporting educational materials are now available to help both students and adults better understand the challenges refugees face. The play is based on real-life experiences collected in interviews of refugees from Afghanistan, Bosnia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, and Syria, along with other immigrant community stakeholders (e.g., teachers, physicians, caseworkers, employers, and even neighbors of refugees). The many perspectives offer a more holistic understanding.

Creators chose a puppet show format for the production available on video because using puppetry rather than human actors can help audiences be more receptive to considering new, challenging ideas. However, the play can be performed by live actors as well. With supporting materials, this play provides important and timely educational tools for youth and adults; helping to increase awareness and understanding of the challenges refugees often face settling into their new lives in the United States.

Materials Available Include:

>> Play Script- create your own production!
>> Puppet Show Performance Video - professionally produced production for viewing (watch a brief preview of the performance)
>> Custom Study Guides with Activities - customized for different age levels (middle-school-aged children [11-13 years old], high-school-aged youth [14-18 years old], and adults)
>> Pre- and Post-Show Surveys - gauge how much performance attendees learn! 

LICENSING OPTIONS

You can license bundled or individual materials to best suit your needs and intended use. View a chart of all licensing options and usage rights.

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