M. Aziz

Dr. M. Aziz is an Assistant Professor in the Department of American Ethnic Studies at the University of Washington. They specialize in African American Studies, focusing on the intersections of martial arts, Black Power organizing, and Cold War militarism. Their research examines how practices like martial arts shaped liberation frameworks and gender norms. Aziz holds a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan and a B.A. from Columbia University.

• Education:
• Ph.D. in American Culture, University of Michigan
• B.A. in African American Studies, Columbia University

Research interests include blaxploitation film, popular culture, and the legacy of abolitionist thought. Their award-winning article analyzes the role of martial arts in Black radical movements. Aziz curates exhibits like the 2017-2018 Schomburg Center's Black Power! and leads the Schomburg Mellon Humanities Summer-Institute for undergraduates.

Teaching focuses on Black cultural history, social movements, and martial artistry pedagogy. They also advocate for radically inclusive self-defense practices through community workshops and digital platforms.