GWST 439 - Women in Africa and the Diaspora

(3.00)

This course uses the comparative approach to examine the experiences of women of African descent from the era of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to the present. It will introduce students to interdisciplinary and comparative theories and materials that will enable them to explore the economic, cultural, social and political roles of women in Africa and African descended women in the United States. Using comparative gender analysis as its theoretical focus with a global perspective, the course emphasizes the diverse, shared historical experiences of women of African descent as enslaved persons, colonial subjects and victims of all forms of oppression as well as agents of social change. Examined as well are their roles in society as mothers, daughters, wives and workers along with their participation in social and political movements since the abolition era. The course also highlights how such other social indexes as class, race, ethnic, national and religious backgrounds affect women’s lives and roles in society. Problems and issues that directly affect them and how to improve their status in the face of increased globalization will be explored.

Components: Lecture
Same as Offered: AFST 439