This event serves to invite students, faculty, and guests interested in Black Studies and/or Archaeology to understand the intersection between the two subjects. Archaeology has historically been an Eurocentric field of study that centered on Western and colonial epistemologies. However, in recent decades, scholars have begun adopting epistemologies from other disciplines–like Black Studies–to decolonize the field of Archaeology and leverage historically marginalized voices. This event serves to give guests an introduction to Black Archaeology. No background experience or knowledge of Black Studies or Archaeology is necessary; everyone from all backgrounds is encouraged to learn and attend.

In a panel format discussion, Dr. Sarah Derbew from Stanford University, Dr. Justin Dunnavant from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Ph.D. Candidate Boluwaji AJAYI from the University of California, Santa Cruz, will discuss the overarching topic of Blackness in Archaeology. Themes will include but will not be limited to: the Archaeology of the Black diaspora and African Archaeology, the importance of Black Studies in Archaeology and other related disciplines (e.g. Classics and Anthropology), and the increasing demographic of Black archaeologists.

The event will be held in the Stanford Archaeology Center (Building 500 Room 106) on Friday, May 17, 2024 from 2PM-3PM. Free boba and beignets will be available to guests until supplies last.