SLAVERY AND ANTI-BLACK RACISM IN THE MODERN INDIAN OCEAN

The “ANTI-BLACK RACISM AND SLAVERY in the modern Indian Ocean” webinar was conducted by the Department of International Studies, Political Science and History, Christ (Deemed to be University) in collaboration with the Harpur College, Binghamton University (New York). The event was inaugurated by Dr Nancy Um, and the welcome address was given by Fraddy Mujuru, Research Scholar at the Department of International Studies, Political Science and History, Christ (Deemed to be University) The Keynote lecture was given by Nathaniel Mathews, Assistant Professor, Africana Studies Binghamton University. The lecture began by defining the Indian Ocean World and slavery. The talk also highlighted the significance of the Indian Ocean region. Mr Mathews then elucidated as to how slavery was dominant in the medieval history of the Indian Ocean World. He further spoke about slavery in the Indian Ocean in the nineteenth century. He spoke at length on the question as to why and how does a link solidify between racial ‘blackness’ and ‘slaveness’ in the Indian Ocean World. Mr Mathews also drew a comparison between aspects of race and caste in the American and the Indian society. The lecture was enriching, eloquent and thought-provoking. The event was quite engaging with the fruitful question and answer session with the audience. Dr Tony Sam George, Dean of School of Social Sciences Christ (Deemed to be University) also gave his insights on African culture. The event came to a close with Dr Nancy Um delivering the concluding remarks followed by the vote of thanks. Report compiled by S.Sri Sai Hemalahari (MA International Studies)