The DETOUR Lab centers Black feminist epistemologies as a critical framework for computing — building technology in collaboration with the communities it is meant to serve.

DETOUR is a research lab in the Department of Computer Science at Emory University, directed by Dr. Yolanda A. Rankin — a recognized thought leader in applying Black feminist epistemologies as a critical framework for computing education.
Applying black women's way of knowing to interrogate and reshape how technology is conceived, taught, and built.
Co-designing digital worlds and experiences that center the joy, safety, and self-determination of Black women.
Rethinking computing education so that more people see themselves as makers of technology, not just consumers.
Developing community-rooted research methods that honor narrative, dialogue, and collective knowledge.
Through facilitated sister circles, we gather and analyze the stories of Black women to imagine technology futures designed on their own terms — from concept to participatory prototype.
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We welcome students and collaborators who believe computing should be designed with and for the communities it serves.
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