African American Studies

Socioeconomic disparities between Black communities and other racial groups in the United States remain a persistent and troubling issue. These disparities, evident in areas such as income, wealth, education, housing, and health, are the result of complex historical, social, and …

African American literature has a rich and complex history, reflecting the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of Black people in America. This essay explores the evolution of African American literature from its earliest forms to contemporary expressions, highlighting key movements, themes, …

Intersectionality has emerged as a crucial framework in African American Studies, offering a nuanced approach to understanding the complex interplay of social identities and systems of oppression. This essay explores the concept of intersectionality, its origins within Black feminist …

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1865, is one of the most significant pieces of legislation in American history. Its primary purpose was to abolish slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. This …

The Harlem Renaissance, a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, was a defining moment in African American history. At the heart of this movement was Langston Hughes, a poet, novelist, and …

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has emerged as one of the most significant social and political forces of the 21st century. Born out of tragedy and fueled by a long-standing frustration with systemic racism, BLM has reshaped conversations about …

As a student of African American Studies at Howard University, I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact that Black music has had on global culture. From its roots in African traditions to its evolution through slavery, Jim Crow, and the …

The Civil Rights Movement is often portrayed through the lens of male leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. However, African American women played crucial, often overlooked roles in advancing the cause of civil rights. This essay explores …

As a freshman at Howard University studying African American Studies, I’ve been deeply moved by our exploration of the Jim Crow era. These laws, which enforced racial segregation in the Southern United States from the late 19th century until …