This trip to Paris was an enlightening 6 days of adventure, exploration, and discovery. I never knew about the significance of the black culture in Paris and the history of the black presence in this advancing metropolitan. I learned so much while on this trip, but I think that I was most surprised by the presence of little Africa in the heart of Paris. It was like a hidden gem that we uncovered, a secret that only a few have had the opportunity to uncover. What made the town (Chateau Rouge) so fascinating was the fact that it was so unlike the rest of Paris. The people were from all walks of life and this melting pot of languages and cultures came together to form a community that was breathless to see and experience. I had no Idea that slavery was not included in the curriculum until the 1990's or that the topic of racism and discrimination is not openly discussed among the public. I think it is so different from how we, as american citizens see ourselves in our communities. Although Paris has its minority population as well, the discussion of differences is not associated with individualism in society. In Paris, blacks are Parisians. In the United States, blacks are black or African American and that is how identity is associated with citizenship in the US.
I think one of the of my favorite activities would have been the tours with Kevi. I felt as though I learned so much about the history and culture of the French. For me, education is the key to development and growth. Therefore, I really appreciate when I have the opportunity to learn something new. With the tours, I was loving the chance to get more information about French society. I was able to dig deeper and even discover more about the French policy on healthcare, which is something I had taken interest in last semester due to a bioethics class. I also really enjoyed the nightlife and the ambiance of the city in the evenings. In the States it is very difficult for me to take advantage of nightlife due to age restriction and location, but when in Paris I was able to take advantage of a moment to make memories. Paris at night is an entirely different world and it is filled with so much laughter and music and lights and dance. I could not have spent my nights any better than with new friends who really came together to make my time in Paris so exceptional.
The thing I am going to miss the most about Paris would be the people who made my first study abroad so amazing. I will miss the patient and calm nature of my instructor Dr. Bryan Carter. He was an exceptional teacher who cared deeply about the safety and well-being of his students. His enthusiasm for the course and the city really helped to bring this trip to life. I was extremely thankful to our tour guide Kevi as well because he exposed the beauty of Paris. From the eyes and perspective of a black Parisian, who was also deeply moved by his studies in black Parisian history and prominence, the trip gained value and meaning. The people that I met and traveled with will remain unforgettable and I can not thank them enough for making this trip so fun and for keeping me laughing into each new day. I also missed out on the opportunity to buy up souvenirs due to the border closure warning. I was so in love with this city that I did not want to leave. Even after the outbreak of corona virus sent Paris into a level 3 notice, I was hoping for a miracle that would allow to stay longer and enjoy the rest of what Paris had to offer.
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