OBSERVER STAFF REPORT

Africa’s influence stretches across the globe and across ethnic lines, as evidenced in a presentation brought to the State Capitol recently.

Southern California professor Dr. Toni Mokjaetji Humber led a discussion of “Where Black is Brown: The African Diaspora in Mexico” at the State Capitol. Photo (c) Observer / Larry V. Dalton

“Where Black is Brown: The African Diaspora in Mexico,” was hosted by Assemblymember Mike Davis (D-Los Angeles) in honor of Black History Month.

The presentation was facilitated by Dr. Toni Mokjaetji Humber, a professor within the Ethnic and Women’s Studies Department at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Humber’s research interests focus on African and African American culture and history, Ebonics and its educational implications as well as ethnic studies, sociolinguistics and intercultural communication.

“Where Black Is Brown” is her present research and is designed to further the understanding of Africa’s influence and contributions to diverse cultures and histories of the Americas. It is especially designed to foster greater understanding among African American, Latino and Indigenous communities about their historical connections and common struggles and triumphs.

Davis says the presentation reveals that “we have more in common than that which divides us.”

Humber’s investigation of the African Diaspora in the Americas has taken her to Brazil, Panama, Guatemala and Mexico. In 2007, she led a tour called The African Diaspora in Mexico. Dr. Humber showed photos of the people and artifacts she’s found in her travels.

Also making remarks were Davis, Vincent Harris from Senator Mark-Ridley Thomas’ office and Assemblyman Joe Coto, chair of the Latino Legislative Caucus. A reception in the Basement Rotunda followed the presentation.