Religion: Native AmericanCommunities&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.

Online asynchronous;

This course explores the diverse religious traditions, cultures, and histories of American Indian peoples, with a focus on the impact of colonialism and the struggle for sovereignty. Through readings, discussions, and critical analysis, students will gain an understanding of race and racism in the U.S. by examining historical and contemporary issues faced by Native American communities, including the Doctrine of Discovery, forced assimilation policies, and ongoing struggles for land rights and religious freedom. This course also promotes an understanding of the meaning of power and privilege by analyzing how these concepts have shaped the experiences of Native Americans throughout history. The purpose of this course is to learn about and engage with the religious traditions, diverse cultures, and histories of American Indian peoples. In doing so, we will explore the legacies of colonialism as a background against the religious, cultural, and legal actions of Indian sovereignty and tribal self-determination. We will cover topics on sacred lands, repatriation, political sovereignty, religious freedom, environmentalism, and traditional indigenous knowledge.

By the end of this course, you will be able to: Describe the major religious traditions of many different American Indian peoples. Discuss the impact of colonialism on American Indian religions and cultures. Analyze American Indian sovereignty and self-determination movements. Apply critical thinking skills to complex issues related to the history of racism against American Indian peoples.

Students will be graded on the following: Reading Response Journal - 25% Concept Mapping - 15% Midterm Exam - 25% Final Exam - 35%