- Introduction to Black Studies

Catalog description

Introduction to the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary field of Black Studies, providing students with an intellectual framework for contemplating global Black experiences historically and contemporarily.  The course begins by placing Black Studies in context, noting its significance as part of the Black Power phase of a larger struggle for African American human rights.  From there, the course examines the continent of Africa as the birthplace of humanity and site of diverse and complex cultures.  Subsequent weeks will address self-determination and resistance in the African, Caribbean, and U.S. contexts as well as the importance of institutional racism.  The course also interrogates intraracial issues such as socioeconomic class, gender, sexuality and skin color.