Afrofuturism in Chronopolitical Intervention: Mark Sinker

Image Created by Kaylan F. Michael on Afrofuturism 

        While reading, Chronopoltical Intervention: Mark Sinker, what stuck out to me was the conversation on Afrofuturism. In my experience, I had heard this term mentioned many times. However, I had never truly learned what it meant or what it’s impact on another could be. After, reading the publication I sought more on the term. It was defined as a way to use African-American experiences with science-fiction, fantasy, and history to help those that have been estranged from their ancestry. Many sought it as a way to create a better future from the past.

        The reference to Afrofuturism within the publication uses alien abduction as a metaphor for the capturing and forced voyages to be sold into slavery. It depicts that in science-fiction authors always reference that aliens have superior technology and the captures of the past were those with superior technology as well. Noting that “Europe and Asia - are already in their various ways Alien Nation.” It particularly focuses on displacement and the alienation from one’s culture. Also depicting the erasure of specific landscapes and teachings.

        Afrofuturism is connected to the idea of time loss and reclaiming the near distant future. In the publication it is considered a chronopoltical intervention by giving time back. It understands the patterns and behaviors' of the past and intervenes in the continuing nature of the past. It is an empowerment tool that has been used in many popular culture references and essays.

        For instance, Black Panther, is depicted in a dystopian landscape named Wakanda. It showcases rare power and technologies that are far advanced to the rest of civilization. It is hidden within Africa due to the understanding of the greed of others. Afrofuturism is a medium in which voices are heard and seen through. The image depicted above showcases the mix of cultural references and science-fiction symbols reclaiming aspects of African culture that have been lost.

Sources:

1) Reading from This week - Ana Teixeria Pinto's Chronopolitcal Intervention: Mark Sinker

2) https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/12/africa/genre-behind-black-panther-afrofuturism/index.html