Devanne Béda-Geuder is an Associate Research Scholar and Lecturer in the School of Public and International Affairs. Her work explores the political economy of development, urban transformation, the production of inequality with a focus on African cities including Accra, Ghana and Dakar, Senegal. Additionally, Dr. Béda-Geuder examines negative impacts of climate change and the role of cities, urban climate adaptation, and urban environmental inequality. 

Baldwin Circle Theme: Baldwin Transposed

The tensions between his need for both distance and proximity in his life and writings frame this Baldwin Circle. To change relative place or normal order; to change in form or nature; to render into another language or manner of expression; to transfer from one period to another; to write in a different key. Transpose seems an adequate frame for the consideration of Baldwin’s lived experience in France, Switzerland, and Turkey that invariably influenced his writings. His foray into these countries allowed him to experience his race and sexuality differently, while situating his commentary and witness of the civil rights movement and struggle for human dignity within a more global contextual discourse.