Scholars to discuss popular hip-hop TV drama

The University of Illinois at Chicago department of African American studies will present “A Look at the ‘Empire’ Phenomenon,” a panel discussion addressing diverse topics raised by the popular FOX drama series.

WHEN:

Sept. 16
5 – 6:30 p.m.

WHERE:

**********NEW LOCATION**********
UIC Student Center East
Illinois Room C
750 S. Halsted St.

DETAILS:

“Empire,” which focuses on the head of a music company whose family members aim to take over his corporate leadership role, has been called “TV’s hottest hip-hop drama” by Vogue magazine. The program, starring Terrance Howard and Taraji Penda Henson, has garnered wide appeal as its plot-lines have delved into sociopolitical issues such as race, homophobia and mental illness.

With the highly rated program providing a framework, UIC faculty will bridge academic thought with popular culture when they discuss matters related to communication, race, sexuality, gender and politics.

Featured panelists include Jane Rhodes, professor and head of African American studies; Roderick Ferguson, professor of African American studies and gender and women’s studies; and Barbara Ransby, professor of African American studies, gender and women’s studies, and history.

Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, call (312) 996-2950.