The Fields and Functions of African American Studies and Public Policy

Abstract

This chapter¹ is a preliminary discussion of the role(s) African American Studies (AAS) and Public Policy (PP) can assume through applied research, public discourse, policy formation, and community partnership. On the basis of our experiences in African American studies and public policy, we can explore the dynamic ways in which African American social scientists and policy leaders can collaborate to formulate, implement, and evaluate policies relevant to African American communities. The accomplishment of this goal requires the intersection of both disciplines to extend and challenge the traditional boundary confines of both aca-demia and community. African American studies and public policy can provide the framework to interpret the social political dynamics among decision makers in communities, universities, governmental agencies, and other organizations.

If detrimental effects on African American communities are to be neutralized, they must be countered by an effective Afrikan American controlled network. This network must provide “the powers that be” in the Afrikan American community with the relevant information, intelligence, strategies and tactics for advancing the community’s interest and for liberating African peoples.

Amos N. Wilson

Public Policy… is whatever governments choose to do or not to do.

Thomas Dye