African American Studies at Georgetown: A Legacy of Scholarship and Activism

African American Studies at Georgetown University offers a unique and intellectually stimulating environment for students seeking to understand the rich tapestry of African American experiences. For decades, the program has been at the forefront of scholarship and activism, attracting renowned faculty and passionate students dedicated to exploring the complexities of race, identity, and social justice in America and beyond.

Georgetown University African American Studies Department

A Historical Perspective: Roots of a Movement

The establishment of African American Studies at Georgetown was not a mere academic endeavor; it was a response to the Civil Rights Movement and the growing demand for the inclusion of Black voices and perspectives within academia. Founded in the early 1970s, the program emerged amidst a period of significant social and political change, reflecting a nationwide movement to incorporate the study of Black history and culture into higher education.

Academic Excellence: Exploring Diverse Dimensions of the African Diaspora

Georgetown’s African American Studies program distinguishes itself through its interdisciplinary approach, drawing upon history, literature, sociology, anthropology, and political science to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the African diaspora. The curriculum delves into a wide range of topics, including:

• The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Examining the brutal history of slavery and its enduring legacies.
• The Civil Rights Movement and Black Power Movement: Analyzing the struggles and triumphs of the fight for racial equality.
• Black Arts and Literature: Exploring the creative expressions of Black identity, resistance, and resilience.
• Black Feminism and Gender Studies: Interrogating the intersections of race, gender, and class in shaping Black experiences.
• Black Politics and Policy: Analyzing the political landscape and its impact on Black communities.

African American Studies Students Utilizing Library Resources at Georgetown

Beyond the Classroom: Engaging with the Community

Georgetown’s African American Studies program recognizes the importance of connecting academic scholarship with real-world issues. Students are encouraged to engage with the vibrant Black communities in Washington, D.C. through internships, community service projects, and research collaborations. This commitment to social justice and community engagement is central to the program’s mission.

Renowned Faculty: Shaping Thought Leaders

The African American Studies program boasts a distinguished faculty comprising leading scholars and experts in their respective fields. These professors are not only accomplished academics but also dedicated mentors who guide and inspire students to become critical thinkers and change-makers.

“Our faculty are deeply committed to creating a learning environment that is both rigorous and supportive,” says Dr. Abena Brown, Professor of African American Studies at Georgetown. “We want our students to graduate with not only a deep understanding of the field but also the tools to make a meaningful impact on the world.”

A Global Perspective: African American Studies in a Transnational Context

Recognizing the interconnectedness of Black experiences across national borders, Georgetown’s program also emphasizes a global perspective. Courses explore the African diaspora in Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa, highlighting the historical and contemporary linkages between Black communities worldwide.

Georgetown University African American Studies Student Presentation

Conclusion: A Legacy of Impact

Georgetown’s African American Studies program has a rich history of producing graduates who have gone on to become leaders in various fields, including academia, law, politics, journalism, and the arts. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, focus on social justice, and commitment to community engagement equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex challenges facing our world today. Choosing to study African American Studies at Georgetown is not merely enrolling in a program; it’s joining a vibrant community of scholars, activists, and change-makers dedicated to understanding and transforming the world around them.