Engagement Details
AFAM 398: Understanding African Americans in 20th Century France
What to Expect
Dates: 05/06/2024 - 05/14/2024
Program Description:
In this course, students will explore the travels of three prominent African Americans in the late 19th century and early 20th century to France/Paris. We will visit sites and locations where these African Americans frequented, stayed, and lived. We will also explore the French social, art, and cultural scenes that were influenced by African American culture during the 20th century, and that are still visible today. The three prominent African Americans of the 20th century of focus are Josephine Baker, Charlie Parker, and Eugene Bullard. Through exploring the lives of these individuals, students will understand the importance of self-determination and freedom in the lives of African Americans, and their complicated (inter)national journeys between the United States and France in their quest for recognition and respectability. Differences in the African American experience in the United States and France/Paris will be explored as students ultimately attempt to bridge the gap between USA and French minoritized global cultures. As this is also a service-learning course, students will apply what they learned to introduce a cultural exchange art project to a cultural venue in Paris, and an individual or group presentation upon their return to the USA.
Application Deadline: March 1
Program is for TRIO Students-Opportunity Scholars.
Term: Ongoing
Participation Instructions: Students must speak with Florencia before completing an application through the Education Abroad Office.