Standing in the middle of Independence Square in Accra, Ghana’s capital, Angelica Robinson takes a moment to reflect on the history that surrounds her: her nation’s struggle for freedom, its ties to the slave trade and its influence on American culture.
Robinson’s first experience of America will be as part of a four-week study abroad program at California State University, Fullerton.
“Having the opportunity to participate in this program was a dream come true. This learning experience has allowed me to further my understanding of Ghana’s rich culture and history, as well as deepen my understanding of myself as an African-American,” said Robinson, a graduate student in higher education.
The program, a collaboration between CSUF’s Religious Studies and African American Studies departments, sends students to the heartland of Ghana to learn about racial identity, African American spirituality and religious practices, and cultural elements that remain in Ghana. Following the Atlantic slave trade.
Nine students participated in the 2024 trip and took courses in African American religion and spirituality focusing on themes such as Ghanaian identity, the history of slavery, and storytelling through music and dance. In addition to experiencing Ghanaian religious and spiritual practices firsthand, students will learn how those practices influence and strengthen Black identity in the United States.
During the trip, the students visited historical sites such as Kwame Nkrumah National Park and Mausoleum, Salaga Slave Market, and the “Gate of No Return,” where millions of Africans were forced onto slave ships bound for America.
Ibrahim Zaki, chair and professor of Religious Studies, organized and led the trip in collaboration with Dawn Parson, professor of Educational Leadership, and Vita Jones, professor of Special Education. The program was further supported by Jessica Stern, dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Amir Davillian, vice president for Academic Affairs. Zaki said this is the first time the two departments have led a study abroad program to Ghana.
“Ghana also has a history of frequent visits or permanent residences of African-American and Black icons, including W.E.B. Du Bois, Malcolm X, Maya Angelou and President Barack Obama. It is home to several academic and cultural centers dedicated to Black studies, including the W.E.B. Du Bois Pan-African Cultural Center,” Zakiyi said. “By participating in this trip, CSUF students will be empowered to learn from these great icons, and the experience will impact their actions throughout their lives.”
Robinson said she also attended several religious services and interacted with local community members and leaders to understand how different religions are practiced in Ghana. During her visit to a church in Tamale, Robinson said she was captivated by the upbeat melodies, rhythmic singing and dancing, and the joy behind the worship services. She traced religious practices throughout history to understand their influence on contemporary religious practices around the world.
“There is no doubt that this style of worship is the origin and primary influence of similar styles of worship practiced in many African-American churches in the U.S.,” Robinson said. “Through these interactions, I have gained the most incredible insight into the culture that goes beyond what I learned in the classroom.”
Inspired by this experience, Robinson plans to pursue a doctorate in higher education with her research focused on increasing study abroad opportunities for students from minority backgrounds.
“Recognizing the benefits of global engagement experiences, I plan to conduct research in my doctoral program on increasing BIPOC student participation in study abroad programs,” she said. “Participating in this program is great preparation for the research I want to do because I’ll be able to say I’ve studied abroad and talk about the benefits.”
