Written By Janira Teague, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of History
The United Kingdom is known for its complex history of racism, colonialism, and its role in the Transatlantic slave trade. However, less is known about its vibrant, resilient, and influential Black population, primarily comprising individuals of African and Caribbean heritage. Transatlantic Perspectives – London was specifically designed to utilize both traditional and non-traditional study-abroad activities to offer an engaging and educational, culturally immersive Black British experience for Morehouse students.
In addition to traditional study-abroad components, such as academic seminars and visits to prominent landmarks and institutions, Transatlantic Perspectives – London uniquely emphasized Black spaces and perspectives often overlooked in conventional curricula, providing a fuller understanding of Black British life. For example, Dr. Dave Neita, a Jamaican-born lawyer and poet based in the U.K., led a tour of Central London, including iconic sites such as Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. His tour centered on Black historical narratives related to these landmarks and addressed contemporary issues, such as the discriminatory policing of Black bodies within the community.
The program also explored Black spaces not typically featured in traditional study-abroad itineraries. Students visited Dark Sugars, a chocolatier with an African female owner that narrates the story of the African Diaspora through its artisanal chocolate. Other memorable experiences, often within Black spaces, included fine dining at Stork Mayfair, a Black-owned restaurant featuring a beautiful piece honoring Martin Luther King Jr.; attending lectures at the storied Africa Centre; enjoying High Tea at October Gallery, surrounded by the works of African artist Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga; sampling French Caribbean street food from Bokit’La; and watching a football match at Prince of Peckham, a local Black-owned pub. Overall, Morehouse students were fully immersed in Black life, history, and culture in the U.K.
This study abroad program was developed by Dr. Janira Teague. Dr. Nia Reed served as a lecturer and student liaison, while Dean Brock Mayers acted as a chaperone. Twenty-two students participated in the program, representing Morehouse College with distinction.