ANTHROP 3W03: Special Topics in Anthropology – Black Migration, Resilience, and Identity in Latin America
Prerequisite: 3 units of Anthropology
Fully Online Spring 2024
May 6 – June 24, 2024
No Final Exam
No textbook
Learn about Current Migration topics
Examine Black migration through various Latin American countries
Interactive course activities
Watch intriguing films
This course explores the contemporary dynamics of Black migration across Latin America, inviting students to critically engage with the term “Latin America” itself. From historical roots to present-day diasporic movements, we navigate the experiences shaping the identity of Black migrants in this diverse region.
Starting with the legacies of slavery, students will engage with its lasting influence on migration patterns. Through engaging with scholarly works, students gain insights into the intersections of race, identity, and migration, understanding the complexities of the Black migrant experience.
The focus then shifts to present-day dynamics, exploring the factors driving individuals and communities across borders. With resilience and agency at the forefront, we examine how Black migrant communities actively shape narratives, confront challenges, and contribute to their host countries’ social, cultural, and economic fabric. Anthropological insights guide us through the current cultural dynamics of Black migrant communities. Immersive ethnographic case studies delve into lived experiences and expressive forms, providing a nuanced understanding of how Afro-Descendant individuals navigate their identities.
The course, designed with undergraduates in mind, emphasizes intersectionality, considering how gender, class, and geography intersect with race in shaping individual experiences. Through discussions, case studies, and explorations of current issues, students critically engage with the broader implications of contemporary Black migration in Latin America and challenge preconceived notions of the term. This course offers an accessible exploration of the diverse journeys, challenges, and resilience of these communities in Latin America. It invites students to critically engage with the vibrant narratives defining the migrant experience.