Time Schedule:
Mary C Wright
AIS 435
Seattle Campus
Explores North American Indigenous interaction with, resistance to, and syncretization with Christianity, the European colonizers' religious system. Focuses on Native revitalization movements and new forms of religious expression such as the Indian Shaker Church and the Peyote Road, as well as the legal, social, and cultural issues of Native freedom of religion. Offered: W.
Class description
Issues of modern spirituality for American Indians will be our focus. In general the class explores North American Indigenous interaction with and resistance to the European colonizers regarding spirituality and religious systems. Native revitalization and the quest for social, legal, and cultural freedoms of religion.
Student learning goals
Knowledge of American Indian spirituality, especially as regards to sacred sites and ceremonies, organized "churches," and the search for healing.
Critical thinking regarding perspectives on sacred space, healing, and freedom of non-European heritage religions.
Application of critical thinking in oral and written communication through class discussion, written exams, and writing assignments.
General method of instruction
Discussion of assigned readings, lectures, films.
Recommended preparation
American Indian Studies background is helpful, preferably the introductory AIS classes: "Introduction," "Contemporary issues," "Indigenous World view," and "Ethno-history."
Class assignments and grading
Midterm and final exams will be written essays in response to a series of questions. A 10-page research paper & its revision will analyze a theme from the class as developed from assigned readings, tribal sources, and media coverage.
Assigned books: _A Native Theology_ by Kidwell, Noley & Tinker; _The Inner Journey_ by Linda Hogan; _Course Pack_ of readings assembled by Dr. Wright.
25% class participation 25% paper 25% midterm exam 25% final exam
