The Department of African American and African Diaspora Studies (AAADS) makes, as its primary aim, the study and understanding of the historical and contemporary connections among African Americans, Africans, and other diasporic communities. Toward these ends, our department affirms the democratic tradition of equal opportunity for all by not tolerating any form of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class, and religious differences. The AAADS department also affirms an understanding of diverse cultures and communities in order to improve humanity.