ROOTS AND ROUTES OF AFRICAN DIASPORA RESISTANCE: ARTS (CUL-224124)

Africa has inspired resistance to oppression, from slavery to stereotypes, from racism to sexism. We’ll study this through the lens of one West African culture (Yoruba) that is deeply embedded in American cultures. We will look at how the historical construction of stereotypes and stereotypical constructions of history are perpetuated by contemporary media, and how Yoruba thought and practices break these stereotypes.

Students interested in the global implications of how stereotypes affect power and privilege will learn to address these through the lens of historical theories, philosophy, critical race and gender theories, and art history. Our “case studies” will dismantle the terror factor around African religions to reveal and consider African philosophical tenets that inspire people to freedom.

Students will learn about, research, and share findings about the roles Yoruba culture has played in resistance movements via philosophy and religion (Humanities track), cultural expressions (Arts track); rebellions and politics (History track).

The three tracks of this course overlap. No more than one of these three should be included in a degree program.

NOTE: You will be required to rent DVDs or stream several videos for this course.

Prerequisites: Students who enroll in this course should have advanced college level reading and writing skills. Though not required, course work or prior experience with analysis of race, class, and gender issues would be helpful. The readings and films are challenging and broach complex issues and concepts that call for developing a high level of critical, analytical, and interpretive skills.