AAS 297LEC—Religion in the Inner City

This course introduces students to the complexity and creativity of African American religions. It analyzes African American Christianity and African traditional religions, Islam, spirituality, the current resurgence of African diasporic traditions and ritual practices in relation to Black liberation and the Black experience. We will discuss and debate key aspects of the epistemology of African American religion and culture, how Africa influenced African American religion, how Black cultural movements and African-American religions influenced each other, the link between religion and racial identity, and whether the African American community has moved beyond the church.