Indigenous Politics

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Indigenous Politics explores the struggles of Indigenous Peoples to decolonize their past and present while seeking autonomy and self-determination. We are looking at Indigenous peoples in: USA, Canada, Mexico-Central America, The Caribbean, South America and Oceania. Our approach will be intersectional and multidisciplinary. We will start by studying the invasion and the 19th-century reserves relocations. Then, we are analyzing Residential School atrocities, pacific/violent protests, the role of international organizations, and persecution of environmental and human rights defenders. We will practice historical critical-thinking by relying on diverse historical sources, including Indigenous point of view presented via filmography, art, and music. A number of guest speakers, experts in their respective fields —including Indigenous Peoples— will join us virtually or in person. Students will write two independent analytical essays, one on a region of choice and another on a present-day topic they select.