This course is an exploration of Indigenous ways of knowing and being. The course foci include Indigenous identity, Indigenous ways of teaching, ceremony, and their implication for the practice of theological reflection. The course focuses primarily upon Indigenous groups from North America and Hawaii, through dialogue, media, and assigned reading.
Students will complete weekly assignments to talk about Indigenous identity and its development within dominate American/ Western society.
This course will assist students with inquiring into Indigenous Identity as learners seeking to understand and grow in wisdom. Throughout discussions and writings, all are supported to explore personal and collective experiences past and present.
I want to be upfront and say that I am a Christian theologian and that colors how I see everything else. I am trying to be pluralistic in my approach and have a strong component of interreligious dialogue, but I am shaped by my own history. Throughout all exploration, therefore, the emphasis will be on foundational spiritual teachings from Indigenous thought and protocol and the teachings of Christ.
Prerequisites: None
Course will be taught in person at VST, and via Zoom for distance students (degree students must connect synchronously if studying via Zoom)