Rhetoric of Liberation: The Role of Narrative Power in Contemporary Movements

Catalog description

In this course, we will explore the pivotal role of storytelling in shaping a liberatory and inclusive society. In a landscape fraught with "fake news" and "alternative facts," narrative power becomes essential for earning trust amidst conflicting information, influencing perspectives, affirming values, and ultimately inspiring action. We will analyze significant social movements and movement moments, such as the immigrant rights struggle, the fight against the war on terror, the 'Me Too' movement, queer and trans resistance, and more. Emphasizing the importance of centering the experiences of those closest to oppression, this course explores how narrative power involves personal and political engagement, collaboration, and leadership. We will probe questions about who controls narratives under the structures and systems of state domination and how new ideas and visions for accountability, alternatives, and transformation emerge. In the second half of this course, we will delve into the profound impact of narrative power and rhetoric within the Black Radical Tradition. As described by political theorist Cedric Robinson, this tradition represents a fusion of cultural, intellectual, and action-oriented efforts to challenge societal norms rooted in anti-colonial and antislavery movements. It embodies resistance against oppressive forces and celebrates joy, embodiment, and love. Through multimedia resources, guest speakers, readings, and discussions, we will investigate how Black activists and organizers have harnessed narrative, storytelling, and symbolic tools to forge narrative power in pursuit of radical liberation and freedom.