Decolonizing Forced Migration: Global Issues, Local Action in Philadelphia

1 Course Unit

This Academically Based Community Service (ABCS) course explores how forced migration and refugee resettlement shape local communities, with a focus on the Karen refugee community from Myanmar living in Philadelphia. Drawing from Anthropology and Asian American Studies, the course uses feminist and decolonial approaches to understand these global issues in a local context. Students will engage in hands- on, community-based work with the Karen Community Association of Philadelphia (KCAP), an organization led by Karen refugees. Through discussions, current scholarship, and active participation in KCAP projects, students will build meaningful partnerships and learn how to collaborate across cultural and disciplinary lines. Project options are diverse and shaped by both student interests and community needs. They may include digital storytelling, grant writing, urban farming, food justice, community history, policy briefs, healthcare training tools, and more. No specific background is required—students from all majors are welcome. Through this course, students will develop skills in critical analysis of policy, cross-cultural communication, language justice, and hands-on practice working in ethical collaboration with community partners. The course offers a chance to connect academic learning with real-world impact and to contribute to the work of a resilient and resourceful refugee community. Not Offered Every Year 1 Course Unit