For too long the serious study of African American history and culture in public schools and universities has often been an afterthought. African American history courses are normally not a part of required curriculum but are often optional. When the topic is discussed in K-12 schools it is often relegated to a short lesson on slavery or a mention of the Civil Rights movement, the curriculum is often missing the rich study of African American history and culture. Topics such as the knowledge and wealth of ancient African empires (I.e. Kingdoms of Ghana, Mali and Egypt, as well as the ancient Timbuktu library), the Harlem Renaissance and the history of African American music are rarely mentioned. With the recent rise of racial tension and blatant prejudice and racism in our society it is time for educators on all levels to take the study of Black history and culture seriously.
We are seeking book chapters that cover a broad range of topics on African American history and culture along four trajectories that include: 1) Historical analysis essays, 2) Pedagogical challenges essays, 3) Essays on the teaching and learning of African American history, and 4) Lesson plans and teaching resources devoted to teaching African American history and culture.