Latin America and Africa: Connections and Reconnections (Panel)


Spanish/Portuguese / African Studies
In Person Only: The session will be held fully in person at the hotel. No remote presentations will be included.

Marco Ramirez (Lehman College)

Historically, Latin America and Africa have been deep and intimately linked by complex ties. The violence of colonialism and slavery marked the life of the peoples and the realities of these continents that prior to the XVI century was very limited -if existent at all. But after the colonization, the presence of African peoples in the territories of the "New World" became a decisive force in the transformation of the Latin American continent. Later, during the wars of independence and the period of modern states formation, the question of the place of Afro-descendants sparked debates and conflicts that, in certain cases, are still at the heart of the identity of some countries. However, during the 20th and 21st centuries, many Afro-Latin Americans populations have embarked in a process of reclaiming, reinventing, and celebrating their cultural heritage. This board sponsored panel seeks to promote a discussion about cultural practices, artistic productions, and literary works that explore bridges of cultural, literary and social connections between Latin America and Africa.

Submissions in English and Spanish are welcome.

This board sponsored panel seeks to promote a discussion about cultural practices, artistic productions, and literary works that explore bridges of cultural, literary and social connections between Latin America and Africa.

Submissions in English and Spanish are welcome.