An interdiscipinary introduction to the sociological, cultural, historical, and political issues impacting those citizens of African descent living in America. Emphasis is placed on various movements that have resulted from the African American experience, Christ-centered and otherwise, from the slave trade until the present.
Students are able to review and develop an understanding of the multiple views in which people, in this case, African Americans, have protested and resisted oppression.
This is an essential course, a study of how an oppressed group of people can defy the odds, keep their faith, and survive and/or personally grow and develop.
Those of African descent, are reported to be the offspring of Noah's son, Ham. These descendents will be studied throughout the Bible.
The Bible and course textbooks will help prepare missional leaders for work in and with African Americans.
Knowing how early and more recent believers responded to issues provides the context in which to view the movement of African Americans throughout history.
The Seven Criteria for Culture (Karenga 1991) are: 1) mythology, 2) history, 3) social organization, 4) economic organization, 5) political organization, 6) creative motif, and 7) faith. Students will be able to follow and elaborate on each of these throughout African American experiences.
This course offers insights that help students apply their knowledge and practice to serve African Americans and actually other race and ethnic groups.
Discussions will equip students with the information that they will find useful in working not only with African Americans, but other race/ethnic goups as well.
