See My Book: www.weusoursluckybooks.com

Contact Dr. Greason; wgreason@macalester.edu

The Graphic History of Hip Hop

https://www.graphichistorycompany.com/graphichistoryofhiphop

Lesson Plan: Reimagining Communities through Afrofuturism and Economic Justice

(Based on themes from WalterDGreason.com)

Overview

Dr. Walter D. Greason’s work blends history, economics, Afrofuturism, and digital innovation to show how communities can rebuild themselves through cultural preservation and creative problem‑solving. His projects demonstrate how understanding the past helps us design a more just future.

Learning Objectives

1. Students will analyze how Afrofuturism and historic preservation can transform vulnerable communities. Example: Students review Greason’s Eatonville preservation work and explain how protecting cultural history strengthens community identity.
2. Students will evaluate how digital innovation can promote racial and economic equity. Example: Students explore The Graphic History of Hip Hop and identify how technology communicates social justice messages.

Learning Outcomes

1. Students will demonstrate understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to community uplift. Example: Students create a short presentation connecting Afrofuturism to a local urban renewal effort.
2. Students will apply Greason’s model of cultural preservation to propose solutions for modern issues. Example: Students design a mini‑plan to revitalize a local landmark using digital storytelling.

5E Learning Model (Student‑Friendly Version)

Engage — Get Curious

Students watch a short clip or explore images from Greason’s Eatonville project. They discuss: “Why does preserving history matter for our future?”

Explore — Investigate the Ideas

Students work in small groups to explore one of Greason’s projects (Eatonville, Gallier House, Graphic History of Hip Hop). They take notes on how history, art, and economics connect.

Explain — Make Meaning

The teacher breaks down how Afrofuturism, economics, and cultural design work together. Students share what they discovered and connect it to real‑world community issues.

Elaborate — Apply What You Learned

Students create a digital poster, short essay, or mini‑proposal showing how they would preserve or redesign a local space using Greason’s principles.

Evaluate — Show What You Understand

Students reflect on how creative history can inspire social change. They share their ideas with peers and give feedback.

Formative Assessment

Reflection Journal Prompt:

• How does Afrofuturism help us imagine better communities?
• What lessons from Dr. Greason’s work could help improve your city or school?

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