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Erica Caple James is a Professor in Medical Anthropology and Urban Studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Her research focuses on violence and trauma, philanthropy and humanitarianism, human rights, and the nuanced intersections of race, gender, and culture. One significant aspect of her work examines the psychosocial experiences of Haitian torture survivors during the 1991-94 coup period. Her award-winning book, 'Democratic Insecurities: Violence, Trauma, Intervention in Haiti,' presents an ethnographic analysis of the politics surrounding humanitarian assistance in post-conflict nations transitioning to democracy. James also investigates the role of faith-based organizations in serving Haitian immigrants and refugees, demonstrated in her ethnography 'Life Center: Haitians Corporate Catholicism Boston.' Currently, she is working on several manuscripts addressing themes of race, infrastructure, and environmental justice in the American South, particularly regarding advocacy efforts in Charlottesville to protect historic African American properties. Moreover, her ethnographic research in Haiti, France, and other locations explores the challenges smallholder cacao farmers face in developing their exports within a complex political and environmental landscape.