Afrofuturism Initiative

The CEIS Afrofuturism Initiative at Cal Poly Pomona intentionally welcomes participants from all backgrounds and is designed for students who are passionate about addressing systems of oppression, racism, and anti-Blackness. It empowers Student Scholars to create imaginative, forward-thinking community impact projects that incorporate futuristic elements into education and related disciplines. The initiative welcomes projects that celebrate Black excellence and student success, as well as those that explore themes of agency, liberation, activism, belonging, critical consciousness, creativity, critical hope, and systems change. This Initiative aligns with the CEIS mission to foster inclusive, community-engaged, and empowering educational environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Leverage interdisciplinary, culturally relevant approaches to build and expand partnerships with on- campus and community-based organizations for deeper social impact; 

Bolster pipeline programming and academic pathways with TK-12 and California Community Colleges that center cultural wealth and asset-based approaches; 

Grow funding for and access to increased student participation in high-impact practices including community-engaged research and scholarship; 

Enhance support for professional, career, and leadership opportunities to promote post-graduate success; 

Employ evidence-based strategies to impact outreach, recruitment, retention, and development;

Develop structured programming and community collaborations to incorporate musical and artistic activism in educational and community spaces; 

Increase capacity for creative problem solving and innovation through the study of anti-racist, decolonizing, and Black liberatory pedagogies, scholarship, and creative activities. 

Develop resources for free access, distribution, and practical use in schools, community colleges, and community settings.