Pan-African Studies | C.R.D. Halisi

Dr. C.R.D. Halisi transitioned on Wednesday, May 23, 2013, upon returning from an overseas engagement as a speaker and delegate at the 50th anniversary of the African Union in Ethiopia. C.R.D Halisi was born September 22, 1947, son of the late Gladys and Frederick Daniels. He was a renowned international scholar, activist, and educator. He resided in Altadena, California, attended John Muir High School, Pasadena City College, Cal Poly Pomona and earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles in Political Science (with an emphasis in South African politics). He was a professor at Indiana University and the University of Southern California before coming to California State University, Los Angeles as senior scholar and former Chair of the Department of Pan-African Studies. He published widely on Africa and Pan-African thought, including numerous essays, articles, chapters and a highly regarded book titled Black Political Thought in the Making of South African Democracy. He was well-known in activist circles around the world for his cultural nationalist activities in the 1960s and assisted in bringing forth the celebration of the Kwanzaa holiday. His was deeply admired for his intellect, deep thoughtfulness, reflective nature and dedication to his family, friends, students, community and African liberation. He was extremely loved and will be dearly missed. He is survived by his two older brothers, two daughters, two sons and fourteen grandchildren.

Beyond his formal titles and accolades, Dr. Halisi was our Baba, our Imamu, our visionary, and our guide. He balanced his brilliance with warmth. He counterweighted his commitment to academic rigor with unswerving support and commitment. He brought his deep love for the people and for life to every space he occupied. He challenged each of us to understand our interconnectedness and to move from that space in order to “leave the world more beautiful and beneficial than when we inherited it.” We will forever miss the warmth of Dr. Halisi’s greeting, the sing-song way that he called our names, the tremendous depth of his intellect, his passion for great food and music, his critical lens, and everything that he gave to make us all…to make this world better.

A student scholarship has been founded in Dr. Halisi’s name. Contributions to endow the fund are encouraged. Please make your check payable to CSULA Foundation and send to:

Department of Pan-African Studies
California State University, Los Angeles
5151 State University Drive
King Hall C-3095
Los Angeles, California 90032-8995