CSULA 510 Final Pp A Kaleidoscope Journey Thru African Diasporic Poetics Of Space

A Kaleidoscope Journey thru African Diasporic Poetics of Space Dean Ramser 1 The Middle Passage

Baba BrinkmanI am Africanhttp://bababrinkman.bandcamp.com/album/the-rap-guide-to-human-nature 5

Algérie, Les hors la loi الجزائر، الخارجون عن القانون‏ French historians and artists noted that the ongoing campaign by the "Nostalgic circles" of colonization against the film " Hors la loi" by Rachid Bouchareb, who will represent Algeria at the next International Film Festival of Cannes (2010), is "preventing freedom of creation and the necessary recognition of the colonial past of France." In a text entitled " Rachid Bouchareb’s ‘Hors la loi’ film: the war’s memories are back, those historians, among them Pascal Blanchard, Gilles Manceron, Jean-Pierre Peyroulou, Benjamin Stora, Mohamed Harbi, director Yasmina Adi, considered that these reactions are "a symptom the comeback of good colonial consciousness in some sectors of French society.“-http://www.elmoudjahid.com/en/Culture/5106.html 22

Who are we looking for, who are we looking for?It's Equiano we're looking for.Has he gone to the stream? Let him come back. Has he gone to the farm? Let him return.It's Equiano we're looking for. - Kwa chant about the disappearance of an African boy, Equiano 25

Definitions of space on the Web: the unlimited expanse in which everything is located an empty area (usually bounded in some way between things); an area reserved for some particular purpose outer space: any location outside the Earth's atmosphere a blank character used to separate successive words in writing or printing distance: the interval between two times a blank area one of the areas between or below or above the lines of a musical staff place at intervals 26

Definitions of time on the Web: an instance or single occasion for some event; an indefinite period (usually marked by specific attributes or activities); the continuum of experience in which events pass from the future through the present to the past a person's experience on a particular occasion assign a time for an activity or event fourth dimension: the fourth coordinate that is required (along with three spatial dimensions) to specify a physical event regulate or set the time of 27

Definitions of history on the Web: the aggregate of past events a record or narrative description of past events the discipline that records and interprets past events involving human beings the continuum of events occurring in succession leading from the past to the present and even into the future all that is remembered of the past as preserved in writing 28

Definitions of identity on the Web: the distinct personality of an individual regarded as a persisting entity the individual characteristics by which a thing or person is recognized or known exact sameness 29

Definitions of place on the Web: put into a certain place or abstract location place somebody in a particular situation or location any area set aside for a particular purpose an abstract mental location home: where you live at a particular time 30

51 "You are not an African because you are born in Africa. You are an African because Africa is born in you." --Marimba Ani

52 WE ARE ALL PUTTING OUR HANDS TOGETHER TO REBUILD AND RESTORE THE AFRICAN CONTINENT AS IT SHOULD BE - A BEAUTIFUL AND PEACEFUL CONTINENT.MAY GOD BLESS ALL MEMBERS OF THIS NETWORK. Abuja Time Euro Exchange Rate 1 EUR United Arab Emirates Dirham 4.63 Argentine Peso 4.92 Australian Dollar 1.52 Bulgarian Lev 1.96 Brazilian Real 2.37 Canadian Dollar 1.34 Swiss Franc 1.45 Chilean Peso 676 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 8.61 Czech Koruna 25.8 Danish Krone 7.44 Algerian Dinar 93.8 Estonian Kroon 15.6 Egyptian Pound 7.12 British Pound 0.873 Hong Kong Dollar 9.85 Croatian Kuna 7.27 Hungarian Forint 280 Indonesian Rupiah 12500 Israeli New Shekel 4.81 Indian Rupee 59.1 Iranian Rial 12500 Iceland Krona 161 Japanese Yen 114 Korean Won 1515 Sri Lanka Rupee 143 Latvian Lats 0.708 Mexican Peso 16.5 Malaysian Ringgit 4.19 Nigerian Naira 187 Norwegian Krone 8.17 New Zealand Dollar 1.87 Philippine Peso 58.7 Pakistan Rupee 106 Polish Zloty 4.14 Qatari Rial 4.59 Romanian Leu 4.2 Serbian Dinar 102 Russian Ruble 39.5 Saudi Riyal 4.73 Swedish Krona 9.93 Singapore Dollar 1.78 Thai Baht 40.8 Turkish Lira 2 Taiwan Dollar 39.6 Ukraine Hryvnia 9.78 American Dollar 1.26 South African Rand 9.98 21 May 10 Currency Converter Amount FROM FROM American DollarAlgerian DinarArgentine PesoAustralian DollarBrazilian RealBritish PoundBulgarian LevCanadian DollarChilean PesoChinese YuanCroatian KunaCzech KorunaDanish KroneEgyptian PoundEuroEstoanian KroonHong Kong DollarHungarian ForintIceland KronaIndian RupeeIndonesia RupiahIranian RialIsraeli New ShekelJapanese YenLatvian LatsMalaysian RinggitMexican PesoNew Zealand DollarNigerian NairaNorwegian KronerPakistan RupeePolish ZlotyPhilippine PesoQatari RialRomanian LeuRussian RubleSaudi RiyalSerbian DinarSingapore DollarSouth African RandSouth Korean WonSri Lanka RupeeSwedish KronaSwiss FrancTaiwan DollarTurkish LiraThai BahtUkraine HryvniaU Arab Emirates DirhamVietnamese Dong TO American DollarAlgerian DinarArgentine PesoAustralian DollarBrazilian RealBritish PoundBulgarian LevCanadian DollarChilean PesoChinese YuanCroatian KunaCzech KorunaDanish KroneEgyptian PoundEuroEstoanian KroonHong Kong DollarHungarian ForintIceland KronaIndian RupeeIndonesia RupiahIranian RialIsraeli New ShekelJapanese YenLatvian LatsMalaysian RinggitMexican PesoNew Zealand DollarNigerian NairaNorwegian KronerPakistan RupeePolish ZlotyPhilippine PesoQatari RialRomanian LeuRussian RubleSaudi RiyalSerbian DinarSingapore DollarSouth African RandSouth Korean WonSri Lanka RupeeSwedish KronaSwiss FrancTaiwan DollarTurkish LiraThai BahtUkraine HryvniaU Arab Emirates DirhamVietnamese Dong Result: Rates on 21 May 2010 ...For all individuals who are willing to contribute to a new democratic,progressive and disciplined African continent. .. THIS IS THE PLACE FOR AFRICANS, AFRICANS IN DIAOSPRA AND ALL PEOPLE OF THE WORLD WHO CARE AND LOVE AFRICA TO MAKE ALL THEIR,CULTURAL,BUSINESS AND POLITICAL CONNECTIONS. FIFA World Cup Countdown ..Music. ..Members. .View All..Groups. Religion and Philosophy 36 members Black Entertainment Love… 27 members Black and African Art 27 members Black poetry and literat… 25 members Afro cuisine 25 members Blacklove 24 members African History 24 members AFRICAN ARCHITECTURE 23 members Black Films and Televisi… 21 members Environmentalists 18 members POLITIcool 17 members Science and technology 17 members BLACK SINGLES 15 members DEMOCRACY IN AFRICA 14 members Raphael Louis - Prime Mi… 13 members African Photography 12 members Afro Fashion lovers 11 members AFRICAN BIG BOYS CLUB 8 members BLACK LIFE 8 members Blackmen and Women in sp… 5 members .View All..Latest Activity.Noella added a discussionIMPORTANT INFORMATIONS ABOUT NING PLATFORMHello dear friends, The letter below from NING manager, next mine.....to summarize, let us know that from next July 2010, we'll have to pay to keep our networks on NING. Happily in advance, we already have thought about, and know that right now, my… May 4.Aleksandar Sasha Pavicevic and AJ Center Against Violence are now friendsMay 4.Danielle Vergnes updated their profile photoApril 29.Anthony oderinde is now a member of AFRICACOLLECTIVEWILLWelcome Them! April 15.Danielle Vergnes added a photo P4050064 (Small)April 5.JO TONGO left a comment for Bonnie SimpsonMarch 10.JO TONGO left a comment for Eric EyutchaeMarch 10.JO TONGO might attend Raphael Louis's event CRCP Annual Fundraising Gala: Ball of Honour - December 2010 at Fairmont Royal York Toronto - Canada December 2, 2010 at 6pm to December 3, 2010 at 1am To Honour the heroism of our ancestors, who sacrificed their lives for Justice, Freedom and Peace in our world, and to commemorate the spirit of the Civil Rights Party of Canada, and to officially launch Raphael Louis official electoral campaign 201… March 10.Raphael Louis added an event CRCP Annual Fundraising Gala: Ball of Honour - December 2010 at Fairmont Royal York Toronto - Canada December 2, 2010 at 6pm to December 3, 2010 at 1am To Honour the heroism of our ancestors, who sacrificed their lives for Justice, Freedom and Peace in our world, and to commemorate the spirit of the Civil Rights Party of Canada, and to officially launch Raphael Louis official electoral campaign 201… March 10.Thunder X updated their profileFebruary 19.tekhenu and Sheela S Langeberg are now friendsFebruary 1.Bonnie Simpson replied to Eric Eyutchae's discussion 'TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON (1958 - 2009) THE LEGEND LIVES!!!!!'Since Michael's death, I think about what he endured within the last few years of his life and wonder if any of the people who gave him grief feel regret. January 30..RSS.. ..Badge..Get Badge .. "This propaganda of dis-associating Western Negroes from Africa is not a new one. For many years white propagandists have been printing tons of literature to impress scattered Ethiopia, especially that portion within their civilization, with the idea that Africa is a despised place, inhabited by savages, and cannibals, where no civilized human being should go, especially black civilized human beings. This propaganda is promulgated for the cause that is being realized today. That cause is COLONIAL EXPANSION for the white nations of the world."—Marcus Garvey (Philosophy & Opinions of Marcus Garvey,edited by Amy Jacques-Garvey .. Africa is the mother of Homo Sapiens. This network is dedicated to our Africa , to both blacks and whites on the globe . With all respect for our great mother land . - Eric Eyutchae Glitter Graphics - GlitterLive.com Share on Facebook God Bless Africa We thy children and thy flock In all our endeavors Bless Africa, our family, God Bless Africa God Bless Africa Kingdom loyalty a must, Where Africa, the kingdom Africa, our family, God Bless Africa God Bless Africa Dear home we love and cherish Beloved home forever Africa, our family, until eternity THE KING OF POP MUSIC MICHAEL JACKSON DIES AT 50. R.I.P (1958 -2009) MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE! “In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort. In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream. And in a world filled with distrust, we must still dare to believe.” - Michael Jackson quote Oath To The Ancestors O ancestors! Blacker than a thousand midnights. Afrikan Ancestors! It is YOU that we, your children , give respect and honor. O Ancestors! We call upon You and welcome you in this place. Afrikan Ancestors! Let your presence fill this place. O Ancestors! Who have been purposely excluded from the history books, so that the world would not know of your greatness. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave civilization to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave the arts to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave music to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave the sciences to the world. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave mathematics to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave medicine to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave literature to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave philosophy to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave God consciousness to the world.. O Ancestors, We thank you for devoting your life to make a future for us, your children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Now stand with us, strengthen us, guide us, teach us, and protect us from the snare of our enemies! Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and let our enemies be scattered! And give us the wisdom and the boldness to deal with our oppressors and those who would hinder the liberation and empowerment of our people. Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and live in us. We will not fail to honor you! We will not fail to respect you! We will not fail to hear you! And we will Not betray you! Ase' Ase' (In Agreement With) "Written By Dr. Ray Hagins" THE BEAT GOES ON! AN ASPECT OF HISTORY: TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION From November 15, 1884 through February 26, 1885, an international conference, the first Berlin Conference was convened in Berlin/Germany, represented by Fürst Otto von Bismarck. France supported the German convening of the conference, with a clear diplomatic agenda: to resist the British and Portuguese attempts to control the Congo Basin. The conference's goal was to create an agreement, so as to restrain the existing tensions between the colonial powers and to rule Africa, by dividing the continent among the European states. David Livingston said, the mission of the Europeans in Africa had four purposes: Commerce, Christianity, Civilization and Conquest. 14 Nations participated in the Berlin Conference: Germany, Britain, France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and Italy. Also involved were Russia, Turkey, Austria/Hungary, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway/Sweden and the U.S.A.. Though it is widely thought the conference averted a European war, the occasion for Africa, resulted in the injustice and exploitation of African nations by European powers in the short term. Bitterness, disunity, wars and genocide were and are the results for Europe, Africa and the world, until the present. WHY AFRICA MATTERS Africa is the earth’s second-largest continent; a vast expanse stretching some 5,000 miles (8,000 km) between its most northern and southern tips, and 4,500 miles (7,000 km) between its most eastern and western points. With a population of approximately 1 billion, it is also the world’s second most populous continent, accounting for 15 percent of the global population. It encompasses numerous ethnic groups in 53 countries, speaking over 1,000 languages. The continent also leads the world in strategic minerals (rare minerals absolutely vital for industry), possessing 80 percent of the world’s platinum, 49 percent of its palladium, 55 percent of its chromium and 45 percent of its vanadium, among others. Its fertile fields have the potential to feed not only itself, but also many other countries. Its forests have enough timber to build homes for much of the world. Moreover, Africa’s massive rainforests have the potential for maintaining or destroying the equilibrium of the earth’s atmosphere and ecology. For example, massive deforestation could deplete the world’s ozone layer and adversely affect Earth’s climates. If the continent’s economic decline can be reversed, a prosperous, vibrant Africa, with its population of 1 billion, would become a huge market of consumers for products and services. A talented, educated populace would provide a skilled workforce, driving African economies capable of competing on the world stage, thus reducing—and possibly even eliminating—the need for aid. Africa already contributes internationally in many fields of human endeavor—and its contributions would be even more significant if the potential of its peoples and lands were fully unlocked. All nations would benefit. Africa is fabulously rich in natural resources, more than any other continent. According to Capitalism Magazine, it has 50 percent of the world’s gold and diamonds. It possesses a seemingly endless supply of minerals, including most of the world’s bauxite, chromium, cobalt, manganese and platinum, along with large untapped oil reserves. It has an abundance of timber, millions of acres of fertile land, and lakes and rivers capable of producing 40 percent of the world’s supply of hydroelectric power. The list could go on. Yet, despite these riches, most Africans live in societies troubled by war, instability, corruption, poverty, hunger, disease and untimely deaths. The United Nations said that Africa has the largest number of poor countries of any continent, including 34 of the 50 least developed countries. Tragically, as many as 50 percent of Africans live on less than $1.25 a day (USD throughout article). Wars ravage the continent. Since 1981, no fewer than 28 nations in sub-Saharan Africa have been at war. Deadly diseases like AIDS and malaria wreak havoc throughout nations. The world’s wealthiest countries have provided billions of dollars in aid, but to no avail. Indeed, Africa is poorer now than when it first achieved independence from the colonial powers some 50 years ago. Every year, the continent is high on the list of the world’s priorities for development, but its circumstances continue to deteriorate. As the international community ponders the plight of this troubled continent, the question must be asked: “Can Africa be saved?” Simply put, Africa is a treasure trove of natural resources. EMPEROR HAILE SELASSIE I H.I.M. Haile Selassie I Speech to the United Nations (excerpt) New York City, NY October 4, 1963 "...until the philosophy which holds one race superior and another inferior is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned: That until there are no longer first-class and second class citizens of any nation; That until the color of a man's skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes; That until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all without regard to race; That until that day, the dream of lasting peace and world citizenship and the rule of international morality will remain but a fleeting illusion, to be pursued but never attained; And until the ignoble and unhappy regimes that hold our brothers in Angola, in Mozambique and in South Africa in subhuman bondage have been toppled and destroyed; Until bigotry and prejudice and malicious and inhuman self-interest have been replaced by understanding and tolerance and good-will; Until all Africans stand and speak as free beings, equal in the eyes of all men, as they are in the eyes of Heaven; Until that day, the African continent will not know peace. We Africans will fight, if necessary, and we know that we shall win, as we are confident in the victory of good over evil..." br /> NubianGraphics.com MARCUS GARVEY "This propaganda of dis-associating Western Negroes from Africa is not a new one. For many years white propagandists have been printing tons of literature to impress scattered Ethiopia, especially that portion within their civilization, with the idea that Africa is a despised place, inhabited by savages, and cannibals, where no civilized human being should go, especially black civilized human beings. This propaganda is promulgated for the cause that is being realized today. That cause is COLONIAL EXPANSION for the white nations of the world." —Marcus Garvey (Philosophy & Opinions of Marcus Garvey, edited by Amy Jacques-

POEM BY MUTABARUKA – Reggae Artist/Dub Poet dis poem shall speak of the wretched sea that washed ships to these shores of mothers cryin for their young swallowed up by the sea dis poem shall say nothin new dis poem shall speak of time time unlimited time undefined dis poem shall call names names like lumumba kenyatta nkrumah hannibal akenaton malcolm garvey haile selassie dis poem is vexed about apartheid rascism fascism the klu klux klan riots in brixton atlanta jim jones dis poem is revoltin against 1st world 2nd world 3rd world division man made decision dis poem is like all the rest dis poem will not be amongst great literary works will not be recited by poetry enthusiasts will not be quoted by politicians nor men of religion dis poem s knives bombs guns blood fire blazin for freedom yes dis poem is a drum ashanti mau mau ibo yoruba nyahbingi warriors 53

uhuru uhuru uhuru namibia uhuru soweto uhuru afrika dis poem will not change things dis poem need to be changed dis poem is a rebirth of a peopl arizin awaking understandin dis poem speak is speakin have spoken dis poem shall continue even when poets have stopped writin dis poem shall survive u me it shall linger in history in your mind in time forever dis poem is time only time will tell dis poem is still not written dis poem has no poet dis poem is just a part of the story his-story her-story our-story the story still untold dis poem is now ringin talkin irritatin 54

makin u want to stop it but dis poem will not stop dis poem is long cannot be short dis poem cannot be tamed cannot be blamed the story is still not told about dis poem dis poem is old new dis poem was copied from the bible your prayer book playboy magazine the n.y. times readers digest the c.i.a. files the k.g.b. files dis poem is no secret dis poem shall be called boring stupid senseless dis poem is watchin u tryin to make sense from dis poem dis poem is messin up your brains makin u want to stop listenin to dis poem but u shall not stop listenin to dis poem u need to know what will be said next in dis poem dis poem shall disappoint u because dis poem is to be continued in your mind in your mind in your mind your mind 55

WE ARE ALL PUTTING OUR HANDS TOGETHER TO REBUILD AND RESTORE THE AFRICAN CONTINENT AS IT SHOULD BE - A BEAUTIFUL AND PEACEFUL CONTINENT.MAY GOD BLESS ALL MEMBERS OF THIS NETWORK. Abuja Time 67

"You are not an African because you are born in Africa. You are an African because Africa is born in you." --Marimba Ani 68 68

"This propaganda of dis-associating Western Negroes from Africa is not a new one. For many years white propagandists have been printing tons of literature to impress scattered Ethiopia, especially that portion within their civilization, with the idea that Africa is a despised place, inhabited by savages, and cannibals, where no civilized human being should go, especially black civilized human beings. This propaganda is promulgated for the cause that is being realized today. That cause is COLONIAL EXPANSION for the white nations of the world." —Marcus Garvey (Philosophy & Opinions of Marcus Garvey, edited by Amy Jacques- 69

Oath To The Ancestors O ancestors! Blacker than a thousand midnights. Afrikan Ancestors! It is YOU that we, your children , give respect and honor. O Ancestors! We call upon You and welcome you in this place. Afrikan Ancestors! Let your presence fill this place. O Ancestors! Who have been purposely excluded from the history books, so that the world would not know of your greatness. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave civilization to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave the arts to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave music to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave the sciences to the world. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave mathematics to the world.. 70

Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave medicine to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave literature to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave philosophy to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave God consciousness to the world.. O Ancestors, We thank you for devoting your life to make a future for us, your children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Now stand with us, strengthen us, guide us, teach us, and protect us from the snare of our enemies! Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and let our enemies be scattered! And give us the wisdom and the boldness to deal with our oppressors and those who would hinder the liberation and empowerment of our people. Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and live in us. We will not fail to honor you! We will not fail to respect you! We will not fail to hear you! And we will Not betray you! Ase' Ase' (In Agreement With) "Written By Dr. Ray Hagins" 71

Saul WilliamsWhy Africa Matters 73

WHY AFRICA MATTERS Africa is the earth’s second-largest continent; a vast expanse stretching some 5,000 miles (8,000 km) between its most northern and southern tips, and 4,500 miles (7,000 km) between its most eastern and western points. With a population of approximately 1 billion, it is also the world’s second most populous continent, accounting for 15 percent of the global population. It encompasses numerous ethnic groups in 53 countries, speaking over 1,000 languages. The continent also leads the world in strategic minerals (rare minerals absolutely vital for industry), possessing 80 percent of the world’s platinum, 49 percent of its palladium, 55 percent of its chromium and 45 percent of its vanadium, among others. Its fertile fields have the potential to feed not only itself, but also many other countries. Its forests have enough timber to build homes for much of the world. Moreover, Africa’s massive rainforests have the potential for maintaining or destroying the equilibrium of the earth’s atmosphere and ecology. For example, massive deforestation could deplete the world’s ozone layer and adversely affect Earth’s climates. If the continent’s economic decline can be reversed, a prosperous, vibrant Africa, with its population of 1 billion, would become a huge market of consumers for products and services. A talented, educated populace would provide a skilled workforce, driving African economies capable of competing on the world stage, thus reducing—and possibly even eliminating—the need for aid. 74

WHY AFRICA MATTERS Africa already contributes internationally in many fields of human endeavor—and its contributions would be even more significant if the potential of its peoples and lands were fully unlocked. All nations would benefit. Africa is fabulously rich in natural resources, more than any other continent. According to Capitalism Magazine, it has 50 percent of the world’s gold and diamonds. It possesses a seemingly endless supply of minerals, including most of the world’s bauxite, chromium, cobalt, manganese and platinum, along with large untapped oil reserves. It has an abundance of timber, millions of acres of fertile land, and lakes and rivers capable of producing 40 percent of the world’s supply of hydroelectric power. The list could go on. Yet, despite these riches, most Africans live in societies troubled by war, instability, corruption, poverty, hunger, disease and untimely deaths. The United Nations said that Africa has the largest number of poor countries of any continent, including 34 of the 50 least developed countries. Tragically, as many as 50 percent of Africans live on less than $1.25 a day (USD throughout article). Wars ravage the continent. Since 1981, no fewer than 28 nations in sub-Saharan Africa have been at war. Deadly diseases like AIDS and malaria wreak havoc throughout nations. The world’s wealthiest countries have provided billions of dollars in aid, but to no avail. Indeed, Africa is poorer now than when it first achieved independence from the colonial powers some 50 years ago. Every year, the continent is high on the list of the world’s priorities for development, but its circumstances continue to deteriorate. As the international community ponders the plight of this troubled continent, the question must be asked: “Can Africa be saved?” Simply put, Africa is a treasure trove of natural resources. 75

"This propaganda of dis-associating Western Negroes from Africa is not a new one. For many years white propagandists have been printing tons of literature to impress scattered Ethiopia, especially that portion within their civilization, with the idea that Africa is a despised place, inhabited by savages, and cannibals, where no civilized human being should go, especially black civilized human beings. This propaganda is promulgated for the cause that is being realized today. That cause is COLONIAL EXPANSION for the white nations of the world."—Marcus Garvey (Philosophy & Opinions of Marcus Garvey,edited by Amy Jacques-Garvey .. Africa is the mother of Homo Sapiens. This network is dedicated to our Africa , to both blacks and whites on the globe . With all respect for our great mother land . - Eric Eyutchae Glitter Graphics - GlitterLive.com Share on Facebook God Bless Africa We thy children and thy flock In all our endeavors Bless Africa, our family, God Bless Africa God Bless Africa Kingdom loyalty a must, Where Africa, the kingdom Africa, our family, God Bless Africa God Bless Africa Dear home we love and cherish Beloved home forever Africa, our family, until eternity THE KING OF POP MUSIC MICHAEL JACKSON DIES AT 50. R.I.P (1958 -2009) MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE! “In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort. In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream. And in a world filled with distrust, we must still dare to believe.” - Michael Jackson quote Oath To The Ancestors O ancestors! Blacker than a thousand midnights. Afrikan Ancestors! It is YOU that we, your children , give respect and honor. O Ancestors! We call upon You and welcome you in this place. Afrikan Ancestors! Let your presence fill this place. O Ancestors! Who have been purposely excluded from the history books, so that the world would not know of your greatness. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave civilization to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave the arts to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave music to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave the sciences to the world. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave mathematics to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave medicine to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave literature to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave philosophy to the world.. Our Afrikan Ancestors! Who gave God consciousness to the world.. O Ancestors, We thank you for devoting your life to make a future for us, your children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Now stand with us, strengthen us, guide us, teach us, and protect us from the snare of our enemies! Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and let our enemies be scattered! And give us the wisdom and the boldness to deal with our oppressors and those who would hinder the liberation and empowerment of our people. Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and live in us. We will not fail to honor you! We will not fail to respect you! We will not fail to hear you! And we will Not betray you! Ase' Ase' (In Agreement With) "Written By Dr. Ray Hagins" THE BEAT GOES ON! AN ASPECT OF HISTORY: TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION From November 15, 1884 through February 26, 1885, an international conference, the first Berlin Conference was convened in Berlin/Germany, represented by Fürst Otto von Bismarck. France supported the German convening of the conference, with a clear diplomatic agenda: to resist the British and Portuguese attempts to control the Congo Basin. The conference's goal was to create an agreement, so as to restrain the existing tensions between the colonial powers and to rule Africa, by dividing the continent among the European states. David Livingston said, the mission of the Europeans in Africa had four purposes: Commerce, Christianity, Civilization and Conquest. 14 Nations participated in the Berlin Conference: Germany, Britain, France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and Italy. Also involved were Russia, Turkey, Austria/Hungary, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway/Sweden and the U.S.A.. Though it is widely thought the conference averted a European war, the occasion for Africa, resulted in the injustice and exploitation of African nations by European powers in the short term. Bitterness, disunity, wars and genocide were and are the results for Europe, Africa and the world, until the present. br /> NubianGraphics.com MARCUS GARVEY H.I.M. Haile Selassie I Speech to the United Nations (excerpt) New York City, NY October 4, 1963 "...until the philosophy which holds one race superior and another inferior is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned: That until there are no longer first-class and second class citizens of any nation; That until the color of a man's skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes; That until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all without regard to race; That until that day, the dream of lasting peace and world citizenship and the rule of international morality will remain but a fleeting illusion, to be pursued but never attained; And until the ignoble and unhappy regimes that hold our brothers in Angola, in Mozambique and in South Africa in subhuman bondage have been toppled and destroyed; Until bigotry and prejudice and malicious and inhuman self-interest have been replaced by understanding and tolerance and good-will; Until all Africans stand and speak as free beings, equal in the eyes of all men, as they are in the eyes of Heaven; Until that day, the African continent will not know peace. We Africans will fight, if necessary, and we know that we shall win, as we are confident in the victory of good over evil..." 76 76

"This wretched situation was again aggravated by the galling of the chains, which now became insupportable, and the filth of the necessary tubs [toilets] into which the children often fell and were almost suffocated. The shrieks of the women and the groans of the dying rendered the whole a scene of horror almost inconceivable."—Olaudah Equiano, from The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano or Gustavus Vassa the African (London, 1789). 83

Long Roadby Bessie Smith recording offrom The Complete Recordings, Vol. 4 (Columbia/Legacy 52838),copyright notice 86

It's a long road, but I'm gonna find the endIt's a long road, but I'm gonna find the endAnd when I get back, I'm gonna shake hands with a friendOn the side of the road, I sat underneath a treeOn the side of the road, I sat underneath a treeNobody knows the thought that came over meWeepin' and cryin', tears fallin' on the groun'Weepin' and cryin', tears fallin' on the groun'When I got to the end I was so worried downPicked up my bag, baby, and I tried it againPicked up my bag, baby, and I tried it againI got to make it, I've got to find the endYou can't trust nobody, you might as well be aloneYou can't trust nobody, you might as well be aloneFound my long lost friend and I might as well stayed home 87

Yinka Shonibare: The anarchist artist‏ Yinka Shonibare MBE: Where Art meets Post-Colonial African Artifice “I am very interested in using the idea of something which is visually very beautiful because I think that I want my audience to engage with my work even though I am actually tackling quite serious issues…” Yinka Shonibare 162

sounds kenya nchi yetu‏ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qu9PIAzGkCI&feature=PlayList&p=66DC1475DB49EE81&playnext_from=PL&playnext=1&index=21 163

A Kaleidoscope Journey Thru African Diasporic Poetics of SpaceDr. RameyCSULA 510 Spring 2010 Dean Ramser 184

Kalos- Beautiful Eidos- Form Skopeo- I see 186

Using the kaleidoscope as a functioning metaphor, I intend to explore how the selected writings intersect. It is my belief that the between and within these Diasporic Poetics of Space, exists ‘beauty’ in an aesthetic form. I will use the physicality of the instrument invented by Sir David to see how ‘Time/History’ and ‘Space/Place’ affect each other’s identity. Because of multiple reflections caused by the succession of mirrors, the Kaleidoscope, like ‘Time’ and ‘History,’ cause a ripple of distortion. As with Double Consciousness, ‘Space’ and ‘Place’ are the creation of each other’s spatiality to one another. 187

My aim is to look, and feel, these tales thru the lenses of ‘Time’ and ‘History,’ and ‘Space’ and ‘Place.’ As Edward W. Soja stated "whenever you read a sentence that empowers history, historicality, or the historical narrative, substitute space, spatiality, or geography and think of the consequences”(Thirdspace, 182-83). In exploring the dynamic relationships between the texts, my goal is to realize the aesthetic beauty I feel exists within the ideological plane of kaleidoscopic intersection. I hope to not treat my learning as an exercise in Orientalism, for my belief is that the song sung in the Diasporic Space is ‘beauty,’ as opposed to fetishizing a convention. 189

1) What did you know about the African Diasporic Poetics of Space at the start of the course and what do you know now? As I read I have become more aware of the perceived irony of many situations described in our texts. I say perceived because as a reader I am aware that torture and horror are not part of my life, and they are part of the narratives I am reading. 2) How have the class materials and experiences contributed to your current knowledge of African Diasporic Poetics of Space? The breadth of texts adds to the beauty of the academic odyssey. 3) What remains for you to complete on your patchwork text between now and the end of the course? I must read all of the texts. I then will synthesize their meanings, organize the themes into my kaleidoscope model, and create the folded paper game paradigm to initiate the random relationships to be explored. 4) What would help you in completing your patchwork text in a spirit of calmness, meaningfulness, satisfaction and support? Time. 190

Bibliography The African Origins of UFOs, Anthony Joseph (Cambridge: Salt, 2007). As the Crow Flies, Véronique Tadjo (London: Heinemann, 2001). Flight to Canada, Ishmael Reed (NY: Scribner, 1976). Waiting for an Angel, Helon Habila (NY: Norton, 2002). The Palm-Wine Drinkard and My Life in the Bush of Ghosts, Amos Tutuola (NY: Grove, 1994). Dance the Guns to Silence: 100 Poems for Ken Saro-Wiwa, ed. Nii Ayikwei Parkes and Kadija Sesay (London: Flipped Eye, 2005). American Negro Spirituals, Volumes 1 and 2, James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson (Da Capo Press reprint). [Selections, on Electronic Reserve] The Black Atlantic: Modernity and Double Consciousness, Paul Gilroy (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1993). [Selections, on Electronic reserve] Place and Space in Modern Fiction, Wesley A. Kort (Gainesville: University of Florida Press, 2004). [Selections, on Electronic Reserve] Slave Songs and the Birth of African American Poetry, Lauri Ramey (NY: Palgrave Macmillan, 2nd. ed., pbk, 2010). Cartographies of Diaspora: Contesting Identities, Avtar Brah (London: Routledge, 1996). [Selections, on Electronic Reserve] Place and Space in Modern Fiction, Wesley A. Kort, FL: University Press of Florida, 2004 Mapping the Sacred: Religion, Geography and Postcolonial Cultures, ed. Jamie S. Scott and Paul Simpson-Housley (Amsterdam and Atlanta: Rodopi, 2001). Middle Passages: African American Journeys to Africa, 1787-2005, James T. Campbell (NY: Penguin, 2006). Diasporic Avant-Gardes: Experimental Powetics and Cultural Displacement, ed. Carrie Noland and Barrett Watten (NY: Palgrave Macmillan, 2009). 191

Bellflower High SchoolHaiti Youth Photo Exhibit February 19, 2010 193

CSULA 510 Final Pp A Kaleidoscope Journey Thru African Diasporic Poetics Of Space

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