Summarize your journey through this course by navigating through the concepts, ideas, and nuances surrounding Blackness, What was most (or least) valuable to your learning experiences? Give clear examples to your friend by summarizing units from the course and your responses and reactions to them as evidence.
Then, reflect on major themes (or rhetoric) we have discussed as well as the material that we have covered. How did it impact your learning? (This can be negative or positive depending on your argument).
While you begin your letter talking about the rhetoric of the course, ultimately your letter should focus on your own argument / rhetoric – this is how you will successfully persuade the reader. Using one rhetorical device of your choosing, persuade your friend with the appeal most appropriate to your argument. As aforementioned, this assignment should include all aspects of a traditional letter: a salutation, signature, and closing. In addition, your letter should include a conclusion included in all forms of academic writing.
Dear [Friend],
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take some time to reflect on the journey I've had throughout this course on Blackness and share with you the concepts, ideas, and nuances that have shaped my learning experiences. I believe this course has been a valuable experience overall, with certain aspects standing out as particularly impactful.
One of the most valuable units in this course was the first unit, which focused on the historical context of Blackness. Learning about the history of slavery, colonization, and racism helped me understand the deep-rooted systemic issues that continue to affect Black communities today. It was eye-opening to realize how complex and interconnected these issues are, and how they shape the experiences of Black people around the world. For example, when we learned about the transatlantic slave trade and its devastating impact on African societies, it made me question the narratives I had been taught in mainstream history classes. This unit taught me the importance of critically examining historical narratives and seeking out marginalized voices to gain a fuller understanding of the past.
Another unit that was valuable to my learning experiences was the one on intersectionality. This concept helped me understand how various aspects of a person's identity, such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, intersect and influence their experiences. One example that stood out to me was the discussion around the experiences of Black women. By understanding the intersection of race and gender, I became aware of the unique challenges and forms of oppression that Black women face. This unit reminded me of the importance of recognizing and addressing the multiple forms of inequality and discrimination that exist in society.
Reflecting on the major themes and rhetoric of this course, it is clear to me that the material we have covered has had a profound impact on my learning. The course has challenged me to question my own biases and preconceived notions about Blackness and has pushed me to engage critically with the readings and discussions. I have learned to recognize the diversity within the Black community and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. The material has also encouraged me to be an active ally and advocate for racial justice.
While the impact of this course has been mostly positive, there have been moments of discomfort and unease. Some of the readings and discussions made me confront my own privileges and complicity in systems of oppression. It was uncomfortable to realize that being a well-intentioned person is not enough, and that I need to actively challenge and dismantle these systems. However, I believe that discomfort is an essential part of the learning process, and it has motivated me to continue my journey towards becoming a more informed and anti-racist individual.
In conclusion, my journey through this course on Blackness has been transformative. It has expanded my understanding of the historical, social, and cultural complexities surrounding Blackness. I have learned the importance of intersectionality and recognizing the diverse experiences within the Black community. The material covered has impacted my learning by challenging my preconceived notions and pushing me to critically examine my own biases. Overall, this course has inspired me to actively engage in the fight against racism and work towards creating a more just and inclusive society.
Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections. I hope this letter helps you understand the value and impact of this course on Blackness.
Best regards,
[Your Name]