Glossary
African American Studies
An academic field that critically examines the experiences, history, culture, and contributions of Black people, often challenging traditional narratives.
Example:
A course in African American Studies might explore the Harlem Renaissance, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary Black art, providing a holistic view of Black life.
Afrofuturism
A cultural aesthetic and philosophy that explores the intersection of African diaspora culture with technology and science fiction, often reimagining the past and envisioning empowering futures.
Example:
The vibrant costumes and advanced technology in the film 'Black Panther' are prime examples of Afrofuturism in popular culture.
Benjamin Banneker
A self-taught African American astronomer, mathematician, and almanac author who defied stereotypes of Black intellectual inferiority in the 18th century.
Example:
Benjamin Banneker's detailed almanacs and correspondence with Thomas Jefferson demonstrated the profound intellectual capabilities of Black individuals.
Black Panther (film)
A groundbreaking superhero film that depicts Wakanda, a technologically advanced African nation untouched by colonialism, serving as a powerful symbol of Afrofuturism and Black empowerment.
Example:
The global success of the Black Panther (film) showcased the mainstream appeal of narratives that center Black excellence and innovation.
Eurocentrism
A worldview centered on Western civilization, often prioritizing European culture, history, and values above others.
Example:
Early historical texts often displayed Eurocentrism by largely omitting or misrepresenting the contributions of non-European civilizations.
Interdisciplinary Approach
A method of study that integrates knowledge and methods from multiple academic disciplines to understand a complex subject more comprehensively.
Example:
Understanding the impact of redlining requires an interdisciplinary approach, combining history, sociology, economics, and urban planning.
Nichelle Nichols (as Uhura)
An actress who portrayed Lieutenant Uhura in Star Trek, a groundbreaking role that provided one of the first positive and prominent representations of a Black woman on prime-time television.
Example:
Nichelle Nichols (as Uhura) inspired countless individuals, including Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, to pursue careers in STEM.
Octavia Butler
A celebrated African American science fiction author known for her speculative novels that explore complex themes of race, gender, power, and survival in dystopian futures.
Example:
Octavia Butler's novel 'Kindred' uses time travel to confront the brutal realities of slavery, offering a unique blend of historical fiction and speculative elements.
Phillis Wheatley
An enslaved African woman who became one of the first published African American poets, whose work subtly challenged racial inferiority and envisioned Black freedom.
Example:
Phillis Wheatley's eloquent poetry, despite the constraints of her time, laid early groundwork for Black literary expression and aspirations for liberty.
Representation (in Media)
The portrayal of various groups of people in film, television, literature, and other forms of media, which significantly impacts public perception and self-identity.
Example:
The increased positive representation (in media) of diverse characters helps challenge stereotypes and fosters a more inclusive understanding of society.
Social Justice
The concept that all individuals and groups should have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment within society, regardless of their background.
Example:
Advocates for social justice work to dismantle systemic barriers that lead to inequality in areas like education, housing, and the legal system.
Space Is the Place (film)
A 1974 science fiction film starring Sun Ra, which uses space and technology as metaphors for Black liberation and the creation of alternative realities free from earthly oppression.
Example:
The visual style and narrative of Space Is the Place (film) perfectly encapsulate Sun Ra's cosmic philosophy and the Afrofuturist vision of self-determination.
Speculative Fiction
An umbrella genre encompassing science fiction, fantasy, and horror, which explores 'what if' scenarios and often critiques contemporary social issues by imagining alternative realities.
Example:
Walter Mosley's discussion of how speculative fiction allows Black writers to explore possibilities beyond current limitations highlights its empowering potential.
Sun Ra
An influential jazz musician and composer known for his avant-garde music, cosmic philosophy, and theatrical performances that blended space travel, mythology, and Black liberation.
Example:
Sun Ra's Arkestra performances, with their elaborate costumes and otherworldly sounds, were a pioneering expression of Afrofuturist music.
Systemic Racism
A form of racism embedded in the laws, policies, and institutions of a society, leading to widespread and persistent disadvantages for people of color.
Example:
Understanding systemic racism helps explain how practices like redlining or disparities in the criminal justice system continue to affect Black communities today.