Afrofuturism unveiled: illuminating the path to cultural resurgence and stem excellence

• In Event: Reimagining the Culture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The paper explores the connections between Afrofuturism, Sakofa, and Kemet, highlighting the historical erasure of Black contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) due to systemic white supremacy. Afrofuturism, which explores the African diaspora experience using science fiction and fantasy, challenges traditional narratives of history and progress. This paper leans on Afrofuturism, emphasizing revisiting the past to theorize the future, to retell the narrative of Black people in STEM, undermining systemic racism and white supremacy.

The concept of Sankofa from Ghana's Akan tribe, meaning "go back and get it," is employed to reinforce the necessity of exploring ancestral knowledge for future planning. By drawing from the ancient Afrofuturists of Kemet (ancient Egypt), the foundations of STEM in Black history are illuminated.

We highlight how Afrofuturism employs the Kemetic principle of Ma'at—balance, harmony, and justice—to envision a future where individuals of African descent are free from oppression. Afrofuturism integrates Afro-centrism, bridging the gap between science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and reinforcing the diversity and richness of the Black aesthetic. The movement further challenges techno-utopianism by acknowledging the potential of technology for liberation, albeit recognizing its capacity for oppression if used irresponsibly.

Conclusively, the paper advocates for Afrofuturism as a driver of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Afrofuturism, and Math) education to foster creativity, innovation, and multidimensional thinking among Black students. The paper concludes by proposing Afrofuturism, alongside Latinofuturism and Indigenous futurism, as a means of diversifying the canon of scientific inquiry and discovery.

Authors

• Devin White, Johns Hopkins University

• Ebony McGee, Johns Hopkins University