Black German Literature and Film

6 two-hour sessions • Available by request

We invite you to explore spirited writing and films by, and about, Black Germans and their white allies. Inspired by Audre Lorde’s teachings in Berlin, beginning in 1984, an Afro-German movement emerged, representing this ethnic minority in a diverse and growing body of transnational work.

Our readings include excerpts from the groundbreaking book Showing Our Colors: Afro-German Women Speak Out, tracing Blacks in Germany from the Middle Ages, documenting racism in German colonies, the Weimar Republic, under National Socialism, and Afro-Germans after 1945. We’ll also focus on personal narratives which give voice to history. Excerpts from Hans J. Massaquoi’s memoir Destined to Witness, Ika Hügel-Marshall’s autobiography Invisible Woman, May Ayim’s poetry and the documentary Hope in my heart offer insights into the lives of Black Germans.

In addition, we’ll read about the work of Bühnenwatch (Stagewatch) in German theatre. In a special screening for our class, we’ll watch the award-winning documentary, Audre Lorde—The Berlin Years 1984 to 1992, and conclude the course with the film comedy Everything Will Be Fine which highlights everyday racism and resistance in Germany.

A Course Reader will be available for purchase.