143016 VO Aspects of Women’s Lives in the African Diaspora in Austria (2021W)

While Austria did not have direct colonial ties to the African continent, the African presence in Austrian history which was mainly facilitated by slavery and colonialism is traced back to the 16th Century. Since then, the number of Africans in Austria has grown to approximately 35,000. Historical and contemporary Black history in Austria remains an underexplored topic. This course begins with an introduction to the historical Afro-Austrian links toward an understanding of the interaction between some pioneering Africans with the Austrian society. The second part will focus on the contemporary lived experiences of women of the African diaspora in Austria and the intersection of migration and development, race, and gender. The course will also explore the role of the family of origin, identity, resilience, and acculturation strategies among other related aspects.

At the end of the course, the students will be to do the following:
1. Describe the historical link between Austria and Africa in the wider context of imperialist practices.
2. Critically discuss and analyse aspects of African women in Austria given Austria’s long immigration tradition and contemporary migration policies/trends

Teaching methods:
 Powerpoint presentations
 Brainstorming
 Class discussions
 Individual/group presentations

The course reading materials will comprise scholarly works, case studies, media reports, recorded interviews, videos)

This course will be taught entirely via e-learning tools (Moodle). Any changes will be communicated.