Who We Are
Black Studies at The University of Texas at Austin is a collective endeavor like no other Black Studies initiative in the country. With a history rooted in activism, the group draws its strength from four distinct yet aligned campus units – the African and African Diaspora Studies Department, the John L. Warfield Center for African and African American Studies, the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and the Art Galleries at Black Studies. Students have access to and play a large role in the cutting-edge policy research, thought-provoking scholarship, and robust arts and cultural programming, happening every day at Black Studies at UT Austin.
What We’re Fundraising For
There are many opportunities to make a meaningful difference across Black Studies. From advancing policies that fight against anti-Blackness in our community, to provide enriching experiences for students during their time on the Forty Acres, to telling the stories of the Black Diaspora through arts and creative expression, the units that make-up Black Studies are charging ahead to showcase the beauty and brilliance of Blackness.
Omi Osun Joni L. Jones Visiting Performance Artist Residency celebrates Blackness by making a space for black artists to work, create, and reflect on black life and culture. Artists are invited to campus to share their work, share their wisdom and pause long enough to create new work in the community with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
AGBS Annual Exhibition Fund supports exciting and enthralling art exhibitions at two art galleries on campus - the Christian-Green Gallery and the Idea Lab.
The IUPRA Policy Fund advances social justice efforts in Texas through policy research that equips legislators, educators, and community organizations with analyses aimed at promoting equitable outcomes for Black communities in Texas.
AKA Scholars Legacy Scholarship, established by the Delta Xi Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., is given to undergraduate students interested in learning more about the Black Diaspora Archive and the importance of storytelling and historical preservation about the Black people across the globe, by Black people from across the globe.
Impact
Representation Matters. At Black Studies and through the initiatives launched within the collective, ensuring that the voice of marginalized communities is centered and valued, has equipped thousands of students with tools of discovery to change the world.
“...I felt like IUPRA has a great support system/mentorship. I was often really challenged by the conversations within meetings as well as exposed to the city's systemic issues beyond the UT campus. I've appreciated seeing how IUPRA has a community-first approach to research that is tangibly manifested through meetings, collaborations... with not just other research institutions but also activist groups and community members who have a stake in the shaping of policies and research.” - Lynn Huynh, IUPRA Intern
“ I am immensely grateful for the education I have received as well as the many opportunities that have contributed greatly to my success. Donors massively impact problems, such as the AKA Scholars Black Diaspora Archive Internship – with support provided by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Delta Chapter Legacy Scholarship – which gives students the opportunity to take an active role in their education outside of the classroom” - Zaria El-Fil, 2019-20 AKA Scholar