What if the very religion that oppressed your ancestors could also be your path to liberation? Join us as we engage with Soulforce's representatives—Reverend Alba Onofrio, Nadia Arellano, and Karina Vargas—in a powerful conversation about dismantling white Christian supremacy and Christian nationalism. We share insights from a recent gathering at Syracuse University, highlighting the crucial role of community and continuous dialogue in tackling these urgent issues.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We explore the intricate relationship between Christianity and Indigenous spirituality, examining how faith, once a tool of colonialism, can now be reclaimed for healing and empowerment. I, a queer Christian minister immersed in earth-based healing practices, share my personal reconciliation with Christianity's historical harms. Together, we dissect the Doctrine of Discovery and its ongoing impact, addressing the spiritual violence perpetuated by religious institutions and the generational trauma that still lingers.

We also shed light on efforts to reclaim Indigenous food and healing practices as acts of resistance against Christian supremacy. By reconnecting with our ancestral ways through conscious choices and daily acts of disobedience, we find paths to wholeness and cultural reclamation. Discover how movements like eco-spirituality and feminist theology are paving the way for a more inclusive and respectful approach to spirituality, honoring the diverse traditions that shape our world. Join us for this enlightening episode and uncover how we can collectively heal and dismantle oppressive systems.

Support the show

View the transcript and show notes at podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org. Learn more about the Doctrine of Discovery on our site DoctrineofDiscovery.org.

Discover the transformative power of Native American thought and religious studies in our conversation with the esteemed Philip Deloria. Learn about the profound legacy of Vine Deloria Jr., whose influential works like God is Red have shaped the academic and theological landscapes. As we uncover the Deloria family's rich heritage of Indigenous advocacy, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how these experiences have informed their unique contributions to theology and Native American Studies.

Explore the intricate dynamics between Native American communities and Christianity as we reflect on Vine Deloria Jr.'s provocative texts Custer Died for Your Sins and his subsequent disillusionment with Christianity that led to God Is Red. Through these discussions, we highlight the enduring impact of colonialism and the resurgence of indigenous practices in contemporary Native life.

Unpack the unsettling phenomenon of "playing Indian" in both American and European contexts, exploring historical and contemporary examples from the Boston Tea Party to modern New Age movements. We also discuss the critical role of oral tradition and indigenous knowledge, emphasizing their dynamic nature. This episode provides valuable insights into the current trends in Native Studies, the intersection of indigenous rights with modern political movements, and the transformative potential of indigenous sovereignty and diplomacy. Join us for a thought-provoking and enlightening discussion with Philip Deloria.

Support the show

View the transcript and show notes at podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org. Learn more about the Doctrine of Discovery on our site DoctrineofDiscovery.org.

How have universities become the focal point of inclusive religious dialogue? Join us for a captivating episode as we converse with Winifred Sullivan, a professor at Indiana University, who brings a wealth of experience from her dual careers in law and academia. Learn about her pivotal role at the Center for Religion and the Human, where diverse voices collaborate on addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, political conflicts, and technological advancements. Sullivan underscores the importance of public universities as venues fostering robust discussions on religion and its intersection with today’s most pressing challenges.

Travel back in time with us as we unravel the complex history of religious freedom in the United States. Our exploration starts from the inception of the Constitution and its evolution through the Bill of Rights and the Reconstruction Amendments. We delve into James Madison’s evolving views on federal power and citizen rights, leading to the 20th-century incorporation doctrine that transformed state governance. This legal journey is intricately tied to America’s religious diversity, highlighting pivotal cases like Johnson v. McIntosh and the doctrine of discovery’s enduring influence.

In our deep dive into indigenous influences on democracy, we spotlight the Haudenosaunee Confederacy’s profound impact on Western democratic models. Discover how early recognition of Native American nations shaped governance and treaties, and how these indigenous roots resonate in today’s interpretation of religion in public life. We also reflect on the tragic self-immolation of Aaron Bushnell and its implications for understanding radical dissent. Rounding off the episode, we examine Joan of Arc’s political theology and the significant, yet often overlooked, contributions of the Haudenosaunee to American democracy, showcased in the Smithsonian’s "Voices and Votes" exhibit. This episode promises an enriching narrative that bridges historical insights with contemporary relevance.

Support the show

View the transcript and show notes at podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org. Learn more about the Doctrine of Discovery on our site DoctrineofDiscovery.org.