AFS 320 Black Feminism

An interdisciplinary examination of twentieth-century Black feminist thought, especially interested in how Black women writers have troubled dominant definitions of "theory," "activism," and "feminism." Exploring fiction, poetry, theory, and music we will delve into important issues such as the politics of respectability and relationships among knowledge, consciousness, and empowerment. Topics will include hip-hop feminism, Black queer studies, Black women's health activism, violence, poetic imaginations, sexuality and desire, and friendship. In addition to considering artists' unique political and poetic aesthetics, we will also imagine possibilities for social justice emerging from intersections among readings.