Explore the rich, global history and diverse cultures of Africa and the African diaspora.
What do African diaspora and Africana Studies mean?
People of African descent living outside of the continent are often referred to as the African diaspora. Africana has come to refer to the study of the past and present experiences of Africans and the African diaspora wherever people of African descent reside; people of African descent are found around the globe.
At Holy Cross, the Africana Studies concentration is an interdisciplinary academic program that examines the integral role that Africans and people of African descent have played in the histories, politics, cultures, and economies all over the world, particularly in Africa, the Americas, the Caribbean and Europe. Using methods from multiple disciplines including history, sociology, languages, literature, political science, religion, and music, students of all backgrounds gain insight into our shared past and present.
Africana Studies Statement on Racism, Violence on Black Bodies, and Activism
Program Highlights
As a complement to our long-standing Introduction to Africana Studies course, we have added a series of foundational courses to offer multiple ways to enter the concentration. These introductory classes generally address most if not all of the following areas:
- the social construction of race
- use of comparative case studies or a regional approach
- methods and theories
We offer upper-level courses in most departments allowing students to enhance their major program of study or develop new avenues of inquiry and research. Coursework can be supplemented with additional research, internships, and study abroad and study away opportunities.
Coursework and research span the College curriculum in history, literature, art, politics, economics and religion.
Study abroad in Australia, England, Peru and Tanzania. Study away in D.C., New York, or at an HBCU.
Graduating seniors are eligible to submit work for the annual Carter G. Woodson Award in recognition of excellence.
Africana Studies News
