Abstract
African Americans may move overseas to escape domestic racism. However, the universality of anti-blackness means that racial oppression is also encountered outside the U.S. For many African Americans, this relocation marks the first encounter with a privileged national identity. Additionally, a significant number of African Americans are motivated by a desire to connect with the global African diaspora, fueled by a sense of kinship. This paper examines whether living abroad alters African Americans’ perception of American privilege and impacts their racial and national identity. Utilizing critical race theory (Bell, 1970) and Black Liberation Psychology (Thompson & Alfred, 2009), this study aims to develop a comprehensive framework to understand the lived experiences of African Americans residing outside the United States. By synthesizing existing literature and applying theoretical frameworks, it aims to uncover the complex interplay of race, identity, and nationality as experienced by African Americans living overseas. The findings are expected to not only enrich academic discourse but also provide deeper insights into the global implications of racial dynamics. To thoroughly explore the nuances of the African American expatriation experience, this study will focus on several key questions. 1. What are the lived experiences of African Americans residing outside of the United States? 2. How do African Americans perceive and experience racism abroad, and what strategies are employed to navigate these racialized encounters? 3. Is there a difference in the forms or intensity of racism experienced by African Americans overseas compared to in the United States?
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2024 Special Focus—Tourism, Leisure and Change: Transforming People and Places
KEYWORDS
Racism, African Diaspora, Roots tourism, African Americans, Critical Race Theory
