Author

Maren Carey

Date of Award

Spring 5-11-2018

Degree Type

Capstone Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Studies (BA)

Department

Cultural Studies

First Advisor

Douglas Reichert Powell

Second Advisor

Carmelo Esterrich

Third Advisor

Kenneth Daley

Abstract

Cultural theorists have analyzed and exposed many elements of culture that were otherwise out of plain sight. Two theorists, Gloria E. Anzaldua and Franz Fanon, that have done exceptional work attempting to shatter the norms of how concepts such as decolonization, violence and activism could truly work to create progress. Fanon discusses concepts of black existentialism in the early 20th century. He explores how difficult it is, primarily for people of color, to express and develop an identity within the structures of inequality embedded globally through colonization. Anzaldua, on the other hand, does similar work but through micro-cultural changes that in tum are very substantial for freedom after decolonization. Through looking at an exceptional example of activism representing physical decolonization the film The Battle of Algiers provides a clear image for society of Fanon's theories of violence and intellectual intention regarding activism. Then moving into modem adivisrn against neo-colonization and white supremacy, how Anzaldua's theories are seen though many activists today such as Black Lives Matter. The theories of Anzaldua and Fanon continue to stay relevant in giving direction to what must be done to create a real shift in hegemony across and within the racial system of the United States as well as in global racial and gender issues. 24 pages.

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