Critical Social Inquiry 0270 - Young Revolutionaries

Defining moments in girlhood and youth like fashioning different hairstyles and clothing are oftentimes inextricably linked to turning points in the development of one's political consciousness. This course explores the ways girls and women of color theorize the development of their political consciousness through these seemingly apolitical coming of age moments in the U.S. since 1920. Students will analyze personal narratives, oral histories, fiction, and plays that document early political trajectories of well-known figures such as bell hooks, Michelle Cliff, and Janet Mock and lesser-known figures. Students will examine the political trajectories of women (e.g., Beyonce) who came of age in the public eye. Course questions include: What are defining moments in the emerging political identities of girls of color? How does becoming aware of gender, race, and class differences during youth impact the development of political identity? How have social movements influenced the political identities of girls of color?

Power, Community and Social Justice Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research Students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.