What Does It Mean to Be a Black Geographer?
How many Black geographers can you name? How many of their works have you read or cited?
Geography, as a discipline, has a complex and often uneasy relationship with Black history. From the problematic roots of environmental determinism to the more progressive and justice-oriented scholarship of today, the field has been shaped by both exclusion and resistance. Yet, throughout this history, Black scholars have made powerful and lasting contributions—challenging dominant narratives, advancing critical perspectives, and broadening the scope of what geography can be.
From the pioneering insights of figures like Pat Noxolo, Julian Agyeman, Abu Abdullah al-Bakri, Ibn Khaldun, Pat Noxolo, Dumisani Moyo, Patricia Daley, Akin Mabogunje, and many others, Black geographers have continually reshaped our understanding of place, power, space, and identity—both through historical narratives and ongoing contemporary work. At York St John University, we are proud to recognise and celebrate the impact of Black geographers—past and present—whose scholarship and activism continue to influence our students, our research, and the wider world.
As we mark Black History Month 2025, the YSJ Geography Blog will spotlight the achievements and ongoing work of Black geographers across various areas of the discipline. Some names may already be familiar; others may be new and inspiring discoveries. Throughout October, follow our special feature series exploring the journeys, research, and influence of Black geographers—in celebration, in reflection, and in recognition of their vital contributions to the field of Geography and the world.