"Institute for Research in African-American Studies at Columbia University (IRAAS) convened a one-week Summer Teachers and Scholars Institute (STSI), focusing particularly on the history, cultures, and institutions of African-descended peoples in New York City. New York, home to Harlem and numerous other black communities, historically and today is one of the capitals of Black America, and even the Black World. Many of the structural, economic, social, and cultural facets found in black communities and cities throughout the Western Hemisphere are exhibited in their greatest dynamism in New York. This Summer Institute offers what few others are able: the opportunity to study African-American history, culture, politics, and life through the lens of New York, and in New York. High school and college/university instructors, graduate students, writers and journalists, museum and archive professionals, and independent scholars and researchers applied.

During the one-week intensive course, STSI participants from around the world met with and attended seminars facilitated by today’s leading scholars in African-American Studies. STSI seminars explored various themes including The New Negro Movement and the Harlem Renaissance; Educating Harlem: Activism for Equality in the Mid-20th Century; Teachers and Social Justice; Black Immigration since 1965; and Health/Medical Rights. STSI participants visited historical landmarks and institutions around the city, received instruction in the latest research methods and enjoyed cultural excursions throughout New York City.