Published: Feb. 23, 2023

In case you have not heard of The CAAAS (The Center for African and African American Studies), pronounced as “The Cause”, it is a new center at the University of Colorado Boulder housed in Macky Auditorium. The CAAAS is led by Professor Reiland Rabaka and its mission is to “research, promote, preserve, interpret, and disseminate knowledge about the histories, cultures, and arts of Africa, African Americans, and the wider world of the African diaspora.”

The programs of the Center focus on research, visual and performing arts, and student services. Its goal is to be a community space that is student centric. The CAAAS wants us all to know the importance of Sankofa (knowledge is power), Ubuntu (interconnection), Umoja (unity), Nea Onnim (the principle and practice of lifelong learning) and of Kuumba (creativity) as they relate to the African, African American and African diasporan identities, histories, and cultures.

Check out their website, which has info on the staff and students, student services, key resources for the community, and how to get involved. Also consider signing up for the newsletter to learn about events and activities you can participate in. The CAAAS has also produced a “CAAAS Black Book” with resources on Student Services Programs, Faculty Affiliates, local Black Businesses, tips for Black student success, and a lot more.

As part of Black History Month, the CU Boulder campus International Film Series is highlighting relevant movies on campus every night – check out the screening schedule at the link. If you are a movie buff and have Netflix, the film critic Elvis Mitchell (heard on NPR) has a new documentary “Is That Black Enough For You?!?” - a fascinating exploration of Black movie history; well worth a viewing!

If you’d like to suggest a topic or contribute a summary and links on a topic for a future DEI minute, please provide your thoughts via this form. To share other questions and comments, please email us at ceae-jedi@colorado.edu.  

Best, 

The CEAE JEDI Committee