5th annual bell hooks symposium

The Africana Studies Program at Northeastern University invites you to the fifth annual bell hooks symposium, "Black Feminism, Black Art." This year’s event will take place on Friday, February 7, 2025, and will bring together artists, academics, and activists whose work is deeply informed by Black feminist thought.

Since its inception in 2022, this symposium has served as a space for collective mourning, reflection, and celebration of the trailblazing work of bell hooks. Each year, we honor her legacy and that of other Black feminist ancestors, while exploring how their teachings continue to shape our present and inspire our futures. Past events have featured key figures such as Salamishah Tillet, Kevin Quashie, Angela Davis, and Gina Dent, among others.

This year's theme, Black Feminism, Black Art, will explore the intersections of Black feminist praxis and art creation, critiquing, and interpretation. We are inspired by the legacy of iconic artists like Faith Ringgold, contemporary creators like Simone Leigh, and local talents such as L'Merchie Frazier and Fern Cunningham. Our discussions will engage with how Black feminism informs not only the making of art but also how we view and engage with it in today's world.

Join us for a day of powerful conversation, artistic expression, and the continued celebration of Black feminist worldmaking through art and media.

Host or Publisher NU Africana Studies