Department of Africana Studies

africana department

Department of Africana Studies

Africana Studies is an interdisciplinary field of study devoted to the critical and systematic examination of the cultural, political, social, economic, and historical experiences of African Americans, Africans, and peoples of African descent around the world.

Our intellectual work and programing highlight the impact of Africa and the African diasporas on humanity. Through its research, academic initiatives and public programming, the Center’s work seeks to explore the profound ways in which African peoples have functioned on a global scale and how their experiences have resonated around the world throughout history.

Upcoming Events



Our Right to Care Conference

Presented by PRSS
Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025 (All Day) | Multiple, see website

For full conference schedule, more info on speakers, and registration, see ourrighttocare.net.

Our Right to Care conference will bring together academics, researchers, advocates, community organizers, unpaid…



What Do We Owe Our Ancestors?

Africana Lecture Series: African-American
Daniel Black
Apr 10, 2025 at - | Max Kade, Room 329-A
3401 Walnut Street
University of Pennsylvania

Listen to the eloquent Daniel Black discuss "What Do We Owe Our Ancestors?"

Dr. Daniel Black is an award-winning novelist, professor, activist, mentor and public speaker. His published works include They…



Taxation in Fragile States: A Case Study of Somalia

Brown Bag Series
Gayatri Sahgal
Apr 15, 2025 at - | Seminar Room, 330-A
3401 Walnut Street
University of Pennsylvania

The third in the Penn Africanists Brown Bag Series this semester will take place on April 15, at noon in Room 330-A, 3401 Walnut Street.

The presenter will be Dr. Gayatri Sahgal, who received her Ph.D. from…