Rev. Fr. Aaron Agbeshie Agorsor is a priest of the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, Ghana, West Africa. He holds a Ph.D in English Literature from the Arizona State University. He teaches First Year Composition in the same university.
His research and teaching interests are transdisciplinary and engage with African American histories of race, gender, sexuality, coloniality and post-coloniality, digital literacy as well as African cultures and aesthetic theories in the Afrofuturist writings of Octavia E. Butler.
His vision is to remix Afrofuturism with indigenous African concepts like Sankofa through digital storytelling. By leveraging digital media, He hopes to create a multifaceted platform for marginalized voices, allowing for the exploration of complex narratives that encompasses both suffering and resilience. According to Joe Lambert and Brooke Hessler, experts in digital storytelling, Digital storytelling offers a unique way to bridge the gap between the past and present, connecting personal experiences to broader social issues. It provides a space for healing, reflection and empowerment, enabling individuals to reclaim their narratives. The combination of visuals, music and interactive elements can evoke empathy and foster community.
Incorporating stories of agency alongside themes of grief and loss enriches the narrative, demonstrating the strength and creativity inherent in African and African American experiences. This approach not only educates but also inspires action, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own stories and the larger societal contexts in which they exist. The words of Mary McLeod Bethune, an African American educator, womanist, and civil rights activist that: “The drums of Afrika still beat in my heart. They will not let me rest while there is a single black boy or girl without a chance to prove his or her worth” resonates deeply within this framework, emphasizing the ongoing fight for equality and opportunity. Digital storytelling can indeed serve as a drumbeat, echoing the call for justice and empowerment. By sharing these narratives, he hopes to contribute to a collective memory that honors the past while paving the way for a more inclusive future.
Digital storytelling can also facilitate global connectivity, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage with and learn from each other’s experiences. As these stories circulate, they have the potential to reshape perceptions and foster a greater understanding of African and African American journeys. Ultimately, my commitment to amplifying these marginalized voices through digital means not only honors the richness of their stories but also champions the on-going struggle for agency and representation in a world that often seeks to silence them.
Currently, he assists at ASU affiliated Catholic Newman Centre where he ministers to students from diverse backgrounds. Aaron is passionate about his ministry as a priest. Aaron is a Marian devotee and has a special place for the blessed mother in his life and ministry.