New York University’s Institute of French Studies (IFS) will host “The Memory of Slavery in France: Perspectives on the Current Controversies,” a panel discussion, on Wed., March 22, (6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.) at La Maison Française of New York University, 16 Washington Mews (at the corner of University Place). At a time when a new conflict fed by France’s colonial past has emerged on the political and intellectual scene, this panel discussion will focus on topics that include the memory of slave trade and the situation of the Antillean community in France. It will feature American and French specialists on the memory of slavery: New York University’s Edward Berenson; Walter Johnson of NYU’s Department of History; and Columbia University historian Gregory Mann. Renowned Guadalupean writer Maryse Condé, appointed by French President Chirac to chair the French Committee for the Memory of Slavery, will present the conclusions of the committee. Discussion will be in French and English.

The event is free and open to the public, which may call 212.998.3680 for more information. Reporters interested in attending the event should contact James Devitt, NYU’s Office of Public Affairs, at 212.998.6808 or james.devitt@nyu.edu.

For a complete schedule of IFS events, go to: http://www.nyu.edu/fas/program/frenchstudies/outreach/program.html

  • WHAT: “The Memory of Slavery in France: Perspectives on the Current Controversies”-a panel discussion with Maryse Condè, writer; professor emeritus, Columbia University; chair, Comité pour la Mémoire de l’esclavage.
  • WHEN: Wed., March 22, 6:30-8 p.m.
  • WHERE: 16 Washington Mews, New York University [Subway Lines: N, R, W (8th Street); 6 (Astor Place)]

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Institute of French Studies at New York University is a multi-disciplinary center for the study of nineteenth- and twentieth-century France with innovative graduate programs that emphasize French culture, history, politics, economics and society.

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