This presentation explores the achievements and aspirations of young soul rebels who got together, often outside of conventional politics, to rock against racism in the late 1970s and early 80s. In doing so, it pays particular attention to cultural producers and critics in the late twentieth century who were educational – without being sermonizing – about creative development, the writing of cultural history and the calculation of political choices. It also considers how the aspirations and achievements of this rebel generation are translated, consumed and read in relation to the agendas and strategies of contemporary students and activists.
Daniel McNeil is a Professor in the Department of Gender Studies at Queen’s University and the Queen’s National Scholar Chair in Black Studies. His scholarship and teaching in Black Atlantic Studies explore how movement, travel and relocation have transformed and boosted creative development, the writing of cultural history and the calculation of political choices. His most recent book is Thinking While Black: Translating the Politics and Popular Culture of a Rebel Generation (Between the Lines, 2022, and Rutgers University Press, 2023).
Please note that this Department Seminar with Dr. Daniel McNeil will take place at 11:30 am in KINE & HLTH Room 100 (in the School of Kinesiology and Health at 28 Division Street) due to the ongoing elevator issues in Watson Hall.
