FS 012 PZ -Women and Political Change in Africa

Institution: Pitzer

Description: Over the past twenty years, African countries have arguably generated the most dramatic increases in women’s political representation in the world. Rwanda boasts the largest percentage of female legislators, while Namibia, Senegal, and South Africa are among the top 15. Political scientists have sought to understand these developments by analyzing gender quota systems and post-conflict peace negotiations. This course examines a much longer history of women’s political engagement, illuminating forms of activism, justice, and social healing particular to African contexts. Students will build an intercultural understanding of women’s work in religion, state-making, anti-colonial movements, leadership transitions, and advocating human rights. (Instructor: Harmony O’Rourke)

Prerequisite(s): None

First-Year seminars are not listed on the course schedule. Incoming students will be assigned to a first-year seminar and registered automatically.