Religion: Nat Amer Community & Rel

Exploration of themes in religion in the United States, with an emphasis on race. Representative topic: African American Religion. Credit not awarded for both REL 1355 and versions of the course offered as REL 1010 to 1029 or as CRES 1841. May be repeated for credit with different content. Topics vary by offering; periodic offering at intervals that may exceed four years. Cross-listed with: CRES 1841.

Open to Degree and PACE students

This course will explore the rich and diverse religious traditions, cultures, and histories of American Indian peoples. We will examine the impact of colonialism on Indian communities and the ways in which American Indians have asserted their sovereignty and self-determination through religious, cultural, and legal means. Topics covered will include: - Sacred lands and the fight for repatriation - Political sovereignty and religious freedom - Environmentalism and Traditional Indigenous Knowledge We will learn from the stories and experiences of American Indian people, and critically examine the ways in which American Indian religions and cultures have been shaped by both colonialism and resistance.

This class is will be held in a lecture format on Mondays and Wednesdays, with and active class discussion on Fridays. Students will be expected to read before class and be prepared to discuss course materials.

Grades are based on participation, reading journal assignments, a midterm exam, and a final exam.