Exploring New Africa House at UMass: A Center for Culture and Learning

New Africa House⁚ A History of Student Activism and Cultural Hub at UMass Amherst

New Africa House, formerly known as Mills House, is an academic building and former dormitory of the University of Massachusetts Amherst built in the Georgian revival style with Art Deco accents. It is part of the Central Residential Area at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

A Brief History

The history of New Africa House is deeply intertwined with the history of student activism at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Originally known as Mills House, the building was constructed in 1948 and served as a dormitory for men. In 1970, Mills House was shut down as a dormitory and shortly after reopened as what today is known as the New Africa House, an academic space and home of the W.E.B. Du Bois African American Studies Department. This transformation was a direct result of the demands presented by Black students to the university, who sought a dedicated space for Black culture and a dedicated department for the study of African American history and culture. The establishment of New Africa House marked a significant step forward in the university's commitment to racial equality and the recognition of the importance of Black voices and experiences.

Occupation of New Africa House

The occupation of New Africa House in 1988 stands as a testament to the enduring struggle for racial justice on the UMass Amherst campus. In the spring of that year, a series of racist incidents targeting Black students on campus reached a boiling point, leading to a powerful demonstration of solidarity and resistance. Black and other Third World students, fueled by a shared sense of outrage and a demand for accountability, took over New Africa House. This act of defiance sent a clear message to the university administration that the Black community would no longer tolerate the pervasive racism that permeated campus life. The occupation was a pivotal moment in the university's history, forcing a reckoning with its own complicity in systemic racism and leading to a renewed commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of its Black student population.

The Significance of New Africa House

New Africa House holds a profound significance for the UMass Amherst community and beyond. It stands as a physical and symbolic testament to the resilience and activism of Black students who fought for their right to a space where they could celebrate their culture, learn their history, and build community. It is a place where generations of Black students have found solace, inspiration, and support, forging deep connections and creating lasting legacies. New Africa House is more than just a building; it is a cultural hub, a place of learning, and a sanctuary for the Black community. It has served as a catalyst for change, challenging the university to confront its past and to create a more inclusive and equitable future. As a center for the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies, New Africa House has played a vital role in fostering scholarship and research that challenges dominant narratives and amplifies the voices of Black scholars and artists.

New Africa House Today

New Africa House continues to be a vibrant and essential part of the UMass Amherst campus today. It remains a hub for the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies, hosting a range of academic activities, including lectures, workshops, and conferences. The building also serves as a gathering place for students, faculty, and community members to connect, celebrate Black culture, and engage in critical dialogue on issues of race and social justice. Beyond its academic role, New Africa House fosters a sense of community and belonging for Black students, providing a space for them to express themselves creatively, connect with their heritage, and build relationships with peers who share their experiences. The New Africa House continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of the community it serves, working to ensure that it remains a relevant and vital resource for students and the broader community.

The Future of New Africa House

The future of New Africa House holds immense promise as a space for continued growth, innovation, and engagement. As the university strives to create a more inclusive and equitable campus, New Africa House will play a vital role in fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and advancing social justice. The building's future will likely involve expanding its programming to address the evolving needs of the Black community and to engage with a broader range of students and faculty across campus. This could include initiatives focused on⁚

  • Strengthening the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies⁚ Expanding research opportunities, attracting renowned scholars, and fostering collaborations with other departments.
  • Enhancing cultural programming⁚ Hosting events that celebrate Black art, music, literature, and film, and providing platforms for emerging Black artists and performers.
  • Promoting community engagement⁚ Partnering with local organizations and institutions to address issues of racial equity and to create opportunities for students to engage in service learning and activism.
  • Expanding outreach⁚ Reaching out to students from underrepresented backgrounds and creating pathways for them to connect with New Africa House and the wider UMass Amherst community.
By embracing these goals, New Africa House will continue to be a beacon of Black excellence, a catalyst for change, and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

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