The College of Staten Island will be proudly hosting the Third International “Estevanico Symposium: Tracing the Footsteps of a Remarkable African Explorer,” an enlightening event, held on Friday, February 21, 2024, from 1:00 – 4:00 PM at the Center for the Arts. The program will spotlight one of history’s most extraordinary yet often overlooked figures—Estevanico, a pioneering African explorer who played a vital role in the early mapping of the Americas.
Born in Morocco, Estevanico (also known as Esteban the Moor or Mustapha Ezzemouri) was one of the first Africans to explore what is now the United States. Despite the hardships of enslavement, he became an invaluable navigator, linguist, and cultural bridge between Spanish explorers and indigenous peoples across the Southwest. His remarkable journey through Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico left an indelible mark on history.
Organized by College of Staten Island Professor of Biology Abdeslem El Idrissi, this event is a must-attend for history enthusiasts, students, and community members interested in Black history, African explorers, and the untold narratives that have shaped the world. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions, cultural exhibitions, and live performances, the conference promises to unveil Estevanico’s significant contributions to exploration, examine his role in the ill-fated Narváez Expedition, highlight the historical intersection of slavery and discovery, and explore the ethical implications of Estevanico’s legacy.
The event will feature prominent historians, authors, and diplomats, including:
Dr. Abdeslem El Idrissi – Welcome remarks and introduction of the Estevanico symposium.
INAUGURAL LECTURE:
H.E Youssef Amrani – The Transatlantic Initiative and the evolving African American relations.
SPEAKERS:
Dr. Hsain Ilahiane Homo Atlanticus: The Career and Legacy of Estevanico de Dorantes.
Dr. John T. Wing The Shifting Frontiers Between Iberia and North Africa.
Dr. Sylviane Diouf Experiences of Africans in the Americas.
Dr. Ephraim Isaac Africa cultural and historical narratives on a global stage.
Dr. Paul Schneider Estevanico: A Cultural Bridge in Indigenous North America.
Dr. Chouaib Halifi Perception of ‘Estevanico’s Story’ in Moroccan Culture and Society.
H.E. Abdelkader Jamoussi Estevanico: A preliminary bibliography.
Alongside the lecture and discussion, attendees will also experience an exclusive art exhibition showcasing Moroccan American artistic expressions and a special performance by the legendary Hassan Hakmoun, a pioneer of Moroccan Gnawa music.
This event is co-organized by several esteemed institutions, including the The College of Staten Island, The City University of New York, The General Consulate of the Kingdom of Morocco, College of Staten Island Student Government, Royal Air Maroc, OCP Group, and Casablanca-Settat Region.
