Africana Studies

In this season of advocacy and activism around justice and equity for Black Lives, Africana Studies at Berklee is forging new ground with courage, innovation and a deep commitment to excellence. Africana Studies at Berklee guides, equips and challenges diverse human beings to lead with a commitment to equity and justice through our inclusive creations. Through our performance and study of Black Music, Black Dance & Black Theater we teach our students to leverage their talent and brilliance to be, in the words of John Coltrane, “a force for good.” Through our Africana Studies Minor and forthcoming bachelors and masters level offerings, available across all of our learning environments, Berklee will soon emerge as the preeminent global hub where mastery in performance (music, dance & theater) and academic excellence intersect to reflect the brilliance, resilience and hope of Black (Afro-Diasporic) Culture. Africana Studies at Berklee is anchored by our Africana Studies Center.

Our vision for the Africana Studies Center at Berklee is to serve as a leading repository for students, staff, faculty and global artists & researchers to enrich, support, and expand relationships to Black Creative Expression (with special emphasis on music, dance & theater). Through student-inspired curated exhibits and faculty-led programming & events, the Africana Studies Center will nurture and mentor leaders in creative performance, socially responsible research & scholarship, innovative modes of expression and entrepreneurship.

Donations will support our students! Through our forthcoming mentoring program, competitions for student creatives and fellowships for our scholars, our students are our priority and we invite you to partner with us to accelerate our goals.