An in-depth conversation with interdisciplinary scholar and MacArthur fellow Imani Perry
When the MacArthur Foundation announced its class of 2023 “genius grant” fellows, it brought attention to the exceptional talent and leadership demonstrated by these individuals in their respective fields. Among this year’s cohort is Imani Perry, an interdisciplinary scholar and writer who has dedicated her work to exploring the history and cultural expressions of Black Americans in the face of injustice. In this exclusive interview for Under the Radar’s series, “The Genius Next Door,” we delve into Perry’s unique approach to scholarship and her mission to shape our ethics for the present and the future.
Haunting the Past: Unearthing Forgotten Narratives
Imani Perry describes her work as “haunting the past,” a phrase that encapsulates her commitment to shedding light on the stories and experiences of those who have been historically overlooked. As a Boston University professor, Perry delves into the history and cultural expressions forged by Black Americans, seeking to understand their resilience in the face of adversity.
Perry explains, “I’m trying to train my attention on those who were disregarded in the past as a way of shaping our ethics for the present and the future. So it’s sort of like trying to catch a hold of freedom, dreams that have existed over the course of generations, train my gaze and shine a light on them.”
Through her research and writing, Perry aims to bring these forgotten narratives to the forefront, challenging prevailing narratives and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of American history.
The Intersection of Scholarship and Activism
Imani Perry’s work extends beyond academia; it is deeply intertwined with her activism. She believes that scholarship should not be confined to the ivory tower but should actively engage with the world and contribute to social change.
Perry emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between theory and practice, stating, “I think the best scholarship is always in conversation with the world. It’s always in conversation with the problems and the challenges and the aspirations of the people who are living.”
By connecting her academic pursuits to real-world issues, Perry seeks to create meaningful impact and inspire others to do the same. She believes that knowledge should empower individuals to challenge systemic inequalities and work towards a more just society.
Boston as a Hub of Intellectual Excellence
Imani Perry is one of four MacArthur fellows based in the Boston area, highlighting the city’s vibrant intellectual community. Boston has long been a hub for groundbreaking research and innovation, attracting scholars and thinkers from diverse disciplines.
Perry acknowledges the importance of being part of this vibrant community, stating, “I think Boston is a place where there’s a lot of intellectual energy, a lot of people who are engaged in thinking about the world in really deep and interesting ways. I’ve been fortunate to have colleagues who are really brilliant and inspiring.”
Being surrounded by like-minded individuals and collaborating with fellow scholars has undoubtedly influenced Perry’s work, fostering an environment of intellectual growth and exchange.
The Power of Recognition
Being named a MacArthur fellow is a significant honor and recognition of one’s exceptional talent and potential. For Imani Perry, this prestigious award not only validates her work but also provides a platform to amplify her message and reach a wider audience.
Perry acknowledges the impact of the MacArthur fellowship, stating, “It’s an extraordinary honor to be recognized in this way, and I think it’s also a responsibility. It means that I have to continue to push myself, to be bold, and to take risks in my work.”
The recognition and support from the MacArthur Foundation will undoubtedly propel Perry’s work forward, allowing her to delve deeper into her research and continue making a difference in the field of Black American history and culture.
Conclusion:
Imani Perry’s work as an interdisciplinary scholar and writer has garnered her recognition as a MacArthur fellow. Through her commitment to unearthing forgotten narratives and challenging prevailing narratives, Perry aims to shape our ethics for the present and the future. Her work not only contributes to academic scholarship but also serves as a catalyst for social change. As one of the MacArthur fellows based in the Boston area, Perry is part of a vibrant intellectual community that fosters collaboration and growth. The recognition and support from the MacArthur Foundation will undoubtedly propel Perry’s work forward, allowing her to continue her mission of shedding light on the resilience and cultural expressions of Black Americans.
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