Professor: Americo Mendoza-Mori
M, W - 3:00pm to 4:15pm

Throughout centuries, Indigenous communities have developed knowledge systems and practices that allow them to foster meaningful connections with natural environments and the earth. By conveying tradition with innovation, Indigenous societies from across the world engage with pressing topics such as social and environmental justice, climate change, decolonization, human rights, education, etc. For instance, while Indigenous peoples make up only 6% of the world's total population, they protect 80% of the planet’s biodiversity. This is a powerful statement of their resistance, resilience, and community-building capacity. This seminar will include fundamental principles, introductory frameworks on Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), a series of practices and wisdoms developed within Indigenous societies from across the world. It will also explore case studies and examples of how Indigenous communities navigate and contribute to the issues of climate change, food security, social disparities, healthcare and spirituality, public policy, and human rights. Community testimonies, guest speakers, multimedia content, interdisciplinary readings, and class debates will be part of the dynamics of this course. This is a speaking seminar, open to all students, that will promote oral communication and critical thinking skills through discussions, projects, and prepared presentations.