African & African American Studies Department Faculty Colloquium

During the colloquium, Professors Evans and Samuel will share their latest research findings, offering insight into their current projects and areas of study. Whether presenting works-in-progress or highlighting key discoveries from recently completed research, the colloquium is designed to foster meaningful discussion and gather valuable feedback from colleagues across disciplines.

The AFAS Faculty Colloquium is an essential space for intellectual exchange, collaboration, and community-building, and we look forward to the insights and conversations this gathering will inspire.

All faculty, staff, and graduate students are welcome to attend.

Professor Samuel talk is titled “Virgin Islands: Myths, Conservation & Space-Making on St. John.” She examines how mythology enables colonialism on St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands—home to the Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies more than sixty percent of the island. Drawing on oral histories and archival research, her book project argues that myths of democracy, virginity, frontiers, and paradise are mobilized by the U.S. National Park Service to both advance and obscure U.S. imperialism, ultimately justifying the dispossession of islanders in one of America’s many forgotten colonies.

Professor Evans talk is titled "The Archaeology of West African Linear Earthworks: Recent Research at Sungbo’s Eredo, Southern Nigeria".