The Critical Race, Gender, and Culture Studies Collaborative (CRGC) is a vibrant and inclusive community of faculty and students that explores diverse voices, histories, and experiences through socially engaged scholarship.

The collaborative houses six interdisciplinary programs that offer bachelor's degrees, minors, and certificates:

African American and African Diaspora Studies

(major, minor)

American Studies

(major, minor)

Arab World Studies

(major, minor, undergraduate certificate)

Asian Studies

(major, minor, undergraduate certificate, graduate certificate)

Multi-Ethnic Studies

(minor, undergraduate certificate)

Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

(major, 2 minors [in Women's and Gender Studies or Sexuality and Queer Studies], graduate certificate)

Our courses discuss race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, culture, religion, and more from a critical perspective. We encourage our students to research complex problems and explore interdisciplinary interests.

Collaborative faculty members are distinguished teachers and researchers from a number of departments in the College of Arts and Sciences, and from other schools at the university. Our professors work closely with DC community leaders and institutions to bring real-world learning experiences into the classroom. Many of our students complement coursework with internship and employment opportunities in DC's political, social, and cultural institutions, and some students study abroad to gain an international perspective on their areas of interest.

Our flexible curriculum teaches students to become critical thinkers, innovative researchers, and skilled communicators. Our alumni enter the workforce with a social awareness that serves them well in the increasingly diversified workplaces of our globalized economy. In gaining a deeper understanding of their world and themselves, our students are prepared for a wide range of careers in communications, education, the arts, the non-profit sector, and government and public policy agencies.

Events at and around AU

September 4

Explore CRGC on the Quad!

Come meet and mingle with professors and learn more about how the Critical Race, Gender, and Culture Studies Collaborative can fit into your AU plan of study via general education, habits of mind, a minor, major, or simply some fascinating electives. Also, snacks! 
Location: MGC Quad
Time: 2-4:30 pm
 

September 18

A Casual Conversation with a Zen Master

In this interactive Dharma Question and Answers session, Ven. Pomnyun Sunim takes questions from the audience and engages the questioner in a dialogue that examines and explores the true nature of the problem. The format follows the interaction that the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, had with people from suffering from various issues of life, eventually leading them to an awakening. The informal style of Dharma Q&A has been well received by Korean and non-Korean audiences because the conversation makes it easier for the audience to understand Buddhist teachings, free from jargons, and the topics of the conversation are applicable to everyday life and yet deeply rooted in Buddhist teachings such as emptiness and The Four Noble Truths. Light refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by Department of Philosophy & Religion
Location: TBA
Time: 2:30-4:30 pm
 

September 25

CRGC presents the Welcoming Stage

Join the CRGC community in a welcoming space for all. Performances welcome, not required. Pizza, community, and drinks provided by CRGC. Bring your talent and bring your questions about CRGC programs.  Vegan and gluten free options will be provided.  
Location: TBA
Time: 7:30-10 pm
 

October 22

Voices of Youth: Challenges and Resilience in the Immigrant Community

This panel, moderated by AU alum Angela Gonzalez who currently works for the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs, will share the stories, challenges and accomplishment of three to four young adults in the DMV area who have faced a number of challenges given their immigration status. For any questions, contact Marcy Campos at mfcampos@american.edu. Light refreshments provided. 
Location: Hughes Formal Lounge 
Time: 6-8 pm