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This talk presents the multifaceted story of China’s soft power campaigns in Africa, with a special focus on Ethiopia—one of China’s closest economic and political partners on the continent. Countering the claims of China’s authoritarian export, the analysis of China’s engagement with Ethiopian elites, youth and media audiences, showcases what I describe as a “fragmented spectacle” — a grand, but disjointed display of China’s prowess. In particular, China’s soft power appeal is rooted in generosity of scale or the large-scale access to its initiatives. And yet, when it comes to building relationships, it produces fragmented or contested Sino-African solidarities. I specifically highlight how performative, material and discursive solidarity works and the tensions that override these different Sino-African encounters. This talk, which draws on a larger book project, demonstrates that the idea of a moral competition is largely a product of the US insecurity about losing out to China, in what many US officials see as the last frontier, rather than an accurate depiction of Chinese activities in Africa.

To registerclick here

Join Brazil Nuts for their weekly Portuguese conversation hour at all levels!

Join members of the French Club to and have casual conversation in French! All levels welcome.

In 1982, a Chinese American named Vincent Chin was murdered in Detroit by two white autoworkers at the height of anti-Japanese sentiments arising from massive layoffs in the auto industry. They were given a $3000 fine and 3 years probation for the murder, but no time in prison. Outraged by this injustice, Asian Americans across the nation united to form a pan-Asian identity and civil rights movement. The film Vincent Who? explores this legacy within the larger narrative of Asian American History.

In partnership with the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Organization of Chinese Americans, we will be screening the film followed by a discussion with the producer Curtis Chin. The hybrid event will be held on the Pitt campus on Monday September 27 at 7:00 pm EDT with the option for joining us online as well. To register click here

It's time to connect! Drop by for snacks and interesting conversation. Meet fellow students in either the global health or global studies certificates. Exchange ideas and learn about opportunities! We'll have students representing several relevant clubs, too!