Women, Gender, Sexuality 292A - S-Femsm/FashionAfricDiaspora

The black feminist movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s marked a time of immense cultural and political upheaval. Images of stylish Afro-coiffed, dashiki-wearing activists often come to mind when we think of these tumultuous years. But, what is black feminism? Can feminists be fashionistas? Can fashion and hairstyles function as forms of cultural and political resistance? These three questions will inform our in-depth exploration of the relationship between the second wave feminist movement and the global fashion industry. We will examine how black women have used clothing to both construct and contest racial, gender, and class boundaries in North America, Europe, and Africa as they fought for racial liberation and gender equality. During our class meetings, we will view and analyze a wide range of primary sources - including fashion magazines, films, music videos, and album cover art - along with the most relevant secondary literature to study the vibrancy and diversity of 1970s-era fashion as well as its political limitations. Our exploration of underground and mainstream fashion cultures just might change what we think we know about black feminism and its cultural-political legacies. Students will be evaluated on their class participation, 2 short essays, and a group project. Fulfills Women of Color inside or outside the U.S. requirement for Women's Studies majors and minors.