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Melissa Horner
and
Shannon Frattaroli, PhD, MPH
Increasingly, terms such as “colonialism,” “decolonization,” and “social structures,” appear in media, conversations, and educational spaces, often without nuanced explanations of these concepts and how they relate to current U.S. society and the individuals in it.
Read more
Increasingly, terms such as “colonialism,” “decolonization,” and “social structures,” appear in media, conversations, and educational spaces, often without nuanced explanations of these concepts and how they relate to current U.S. society and the individuals in it.
Read more
Increasingly, terms such as “colonialism,” “decolonization,” and “social structures,” appear in media, conversations, and educational spaces, often without nuanced explanations of these concepts and how they relate to current U.S. society and the individuals in it.
To provide a space to think, learn, and feel about these concepts as realities connected to everyone, this course offers many entry points to deepen understandings about the U.S. as a current settler colonial nation, to engage with contemporary Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations, and to recognize how participants’ own lives, interests, and professional domains intersect with settler colonialism.
This course highlights perspectives from Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations while focusing on examples of ongoing settler colonialism as it shows up in education, law, food systems, media, land, gender, race/ethnicity, and health/medicine, among others.
Additionally, this course offers a framework consisting of four cornerstones that reveal how ongoing settler colonialism in the United States: 1) attempts to eliminate Indigenous Peoples, 2) imposes ideas of property, 3) produces anti-relationality, and 4) naturalizes the assumption of limited options.
Through the framework + Native perspectives and knowledge, participants will better understand ongoing settler colonialism while (re)imagining anti-colonial processes in the U.S. as a way to co-create thriving futures for everyone.
This Teach-Out does not issue certificates of completion.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/zm5oig/ongoing
What's inside
Syllabus
MIYOONAKISHKATOOHK! (WELCOME!)
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' HOMELANDS: THE U.S. AS A SETTLER COLONIAL NATION
This module introduces the U.S. as a current settler colonial nation and guides participants in considering their own relationships (or lack thereof) with diverse and numerous Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations
Read more
Syllabus
MIYOONAKISHKATOOHK! (WELCOME!)
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' HOMELANDS: THE U.S. AS A SETTLER COLONIAL NATION
This module introduces the U.S. as a current settler colonial nation and guides participants in considering their own relationships (or lack thereof) with diverse and numerous Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations
Read more
THE ENDURING PRESENCE OF NATIVE PEOPLES AND SETTLER COLONIALISM’S ATTEMPT TO ELIMINATE
This module provides the first cornerstone in understanding ongoing settler colonialism—the attempt to eliminate Native Peoples. Additionally, this module showcases the enduring presence of Native Peoples despite settler colonialism's ongoing attempts of erasure.
INDIGENOUS UNDERSTANDINGS OF LAND AND THE SETTLER COLONIAL IMPOSITION OF PROPERTY
This module provides the second cornerstone in understanding ongoing settler colonialism—the imposition of property, ownership, and possession. Furthermore, this module highlights pre-colonial (which are also current), Indigenous approaches to land, knowledge, and more-than-human relatives that are not rooted in ownership and possession.
CENTRALITY OF RELATIONSHIPS IN INDIGENOUS WORLDVIEWS AND SETTLER COLONIAL PRODUCTIONS OF ANTI-RELATIONALITY
This module outlines the third cornerstone in understanding ongoing settler colonialism—the production of anti-relationality via the erasure, damage, and unavailability of certain kinds of relationships between people, land, ideas, cultures, and more-than-human relatives. This settler colonial anti-relationality prioritizes principles of individualism, human-centeredness, and ownership/property.
Additionally, this module demonstrates the centrality of meaningful relationships in Indigenous worldviews and the importance of interconnection, care, responsibility, collectivity, consideration, and reciprocity.
DREAMING OF ANTI-COLONIAL FUTURES DESPITE SETTLER COLONIALISM’S LIMITED OPTIONS
This module provides the fourth cornerstone in understanding ongoing settler colonialism—the naturalization (making it seem typical and unremarkable to all people in the U.S.) to have limited life options. Specifically, settler colonialism socializes individuals, families, and groups of people into assuming there are only certain settler colonial-approved ways—often singular, binary, or on a narrow spectrum—to learn, pray, create a family, love, participate economically, rest, eat, organize time, dress, govern, birth, die, attend to health, work, generate/share knowledge, be in relationships, conduct research, and so much more.
Furthermore, this module highlights the expansive possibilities that exist for social configurations, governing, worldviews, and more that Indigenous knowledges and futures show us.
MÍNA KAAWAAPAMITIIN! (SEE YOU LATER!)
***
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
In this course, learners will engage with Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations and their perspectives while reflecting on their own lives
Assistant and Associate Professors of Critical Race Theory in Indigenous Contexts with emphasis on education and law
Develops perspectives on contemporary Indigenous issues by examining resilience and decolonization
Introduces learners to the concept of ongoing settler colonialism and its presence in modern US society
Examines the impact of settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples in the United States
Does not issue certificates of completion
Save this course
Save Ongoing U.S. Settler Colonialism & Native Peoples Teach-Out to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Ongoing U.S. Settler Colonialism & Native Peoples Teach-Out with these
activities:
Review key concepts of U.S. history
Show steps
This activity will refresh your understanding of essential U.S. historical events and concepts that provide context for the course material on settler colonialism.
Browse courses on
U.S. History
Show steps
-
Create a timeline of major events in U.S. history.
-
Identify key figures and their roles in shaping the nation's history.
-
Analyze primary source documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Explore online resources on Indigenous knowledge systems
Show steps
This activity introduces you to diverse Indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives, broadening your understanding of the complexities of settler colonialism.
Show steps
-
Identify reputable online resources on Indigenous knowledge systems.
-
Explore various perspectives and teachings on Indigenous knowledge.
-
Reflect on the implications of Indigenous knowledge systems for decolonizing practices.
Read 'An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. history from the perspective of Indigenous peoples, offering a critical lens on settler colonialism.
View
An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book in its entirety.
-
Take notes on the key arguments and evidence presented.
-
Identify connections between the book's content and the course material.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in peer discussion groups
Show steps
This activity facilitates deeper engagement with course material and diverse perspectives, fostering collaborative learning and critical thinking.
Show steps
-
Join or form peer discussion groups.
-
Prepare for discussions by reviewing course material and readings.
-
Actively participate in discussions, sharing insights and perspectives.
Volunteer at a local Indigenous organization
Show steps
This activity provides hands-on experience in supporting Indigenous communities, fostering empathy and practical understanding of the impacts of settler colonialism.
Show steps
-
Identify a local Indigenous organization that aligns with your interests.
-
Inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend volunteer orientation and training.
-
Engage in meaningful volunteer activities.
Create a visual representation of settler colonialism in the United States
Show steps
This activity encourages you to synthesize your understanding of settler colonialism by creating a visual representation that illustrates its impact on Indigenous peoples and U.S. society.
Show steps
-
Choose a format for your visual representation (e.g., infographic, poster, video).
-
Gather data and evidence to support your representation.
-
Design and create your visual representation.
Develop a research proposal on a topic related to settler colonialism
Show steps
This activity challenges you to apply your knowledge of settler colonialism to a specific research topic, fostering critical thinking and research skills.
Show steps
-
Identify a research question that aligns with the course material.
-
Conduct a literature review to gather background information.
-
Develop a research methodology.
-
Write a research proposal outlining your project.
Review key concepts of U.S. history
Show steps
This activity will refresh your understanding of essential U.S. historical events and concepts that provide context for the course material on settler colonialism.
Browse courses on
U.S. History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a timeline of major events in U.S. history.
- Identify key figures and their roles in shaping the nation's history.
- Analyze primary source documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Explore online resources on Indigenous knowledge systems
Show steps
This activity introduces you to diverse Indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives, broadening your understanding of the complexities of settler colonialism.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable online resources on Indigenous knowledge systems.
- Explore various perspectives and teachings on Indigenous knowledge.
- Reflect on the implications of Indigenous knowledge systems for decolonizing practices.
Read 'An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. history from the perspective of Indigenous peoples, offering a critical lens on settler colonialism.
View
An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book in its entirety.
- Take notes on the key arguments and evidence presented.
- Identify connections between the book's content and the course material.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in peer discussion groups
Show steps
This activity facilitates deeper engagement with course material and diverse perspectives, fostering collaborative learning and critical thinking.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or form peer discussion groups.
- Prepare for discussions by reviewing course material and readings.
- Actively participate in discussions, sharing insights and perspectives.
Volunteer at a local Indigenous organization
Show steps
This activity provides hands-on experience in supporting Indigenous communities, fostering empathy and practical understanding of the impacts of settler colonialism.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a local Indigenous organization that aligns with your interests.
- Inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend volunteer orientation and training.
- Engage in meaningful volunteer activities.
Create a visual representation of settler colonialism in the United States
Show steps
This activity encourages you to synthesize your understanding of settler colonialism by creating a visual representation that illustrates its impact on Indigenous peoples and U.S. society.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a format for your visual representation (e.g., infographic, poster, video).
- Gather data and evidence to support your representation.
- Design and create your visual representation.
Develop a research proposal on a topic related to settler colonialism
Show steps
This activity challenges you to apply your knowledge of settler colonialism to a specific research topic, fostering critical thinking and research skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a research question that aligns with the course material.
- Conduct a literature review to gather background information.
- Develop a research methodology.
- Write a research proposal outlining your project.
Career center
Learners who complete Ongoing U.S. Settler Colonialism & Native Peoples Teach-Out will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Indigenous Education Coordinator
Indigenous Education Coordinator
As an Indigenous Education Coordinator, you are responsible for developing and implementing educational programs that are culturally relevant and responsive to the needs of Indigenous students. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous Peoples in education. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to create programs that are truly effective in meeting the needs of your students.
Native American Studies Professor
Native American Studies Professor
As a Native American Studies Professor, you will teach courses on the history, culture, and politics of Native American peoples. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in the field of Native American Studies, as well as the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to be an effective educator. You will also gain a deep understanding of the ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, which will be essential for you to be able to teach your students about the complex issues facing Native American communities today.
Tribal Policy Analyst
Tribal Policy Analyst
As a Tribal Policy Analyst, you will conduct research and analysis on policies that affect Native American tribes. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the legal and political challenges facing Native American tribes today. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to conduct effective research and analysis, and to make recommendations that will benefit Native American communities.
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologist
As a Cultural Anthropologist, you will study the cultures of different societies. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the different ways that Indigenous Peoples have resisted and adapted to colonialism. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to conduct effective research and analysis, and to make recommendations that will benefit Indigenous communities.
Museum curator
Museum curator
As a Museum Curator, you will be responsible for managing and preserving museum collections. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the ethical issues involved in collecting and displaying Indigenous artifacts. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to curate exhibitions that are respectful of Indigenous cultures and that promote understanding of the complex history of the United States.
Archivist
Archivist
As an Archivist, you will be responsible for preserving and providing access to historical documents. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of preserving Indigenous voices and perspectives. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to curate collections that are inclusive and that promote understanding of the complex history of the United States.
Journalist
Journalist
As a Journalist, you will be responsible for reporting on current events and issues. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of reporting on Indigenous issues in a fair and accurate manner. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to produce journalism that is informative and that promotes understanding of the complex issues facing Indigenous communities today.
Lawyer
Lawyer
As a Lawyer, you will be responsible for representing clients in legal matters. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the legal challenges facing Indigenous Peoples today. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to effectively represent your clients and to advocate for their rights.
Social Worker
Social Worker
As a Social Worker, you will be responsible for providing support and services to individuals and families. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the unique challenges facing Indigenous Peoples today. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to provide culturally competent services to your clients and to advocate for their needs.
Community Organizer
Community Organizer
As a Community Organizer, you will be responsible for organizing and empowering communities to take action on issues that affect them. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of community organizing in Indigenous communities. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to effectively organize your community and to advocate for their needs.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
As a Policy Analyst, you will be responsible for researching and analyzing policies that affect the public. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of analyzing policies with an Indigenous perspective. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to conduct effective research and analysis, and to make recommendations that will benefit Indigenous communities.
Historian
Historian
As a Historian, you will be responsible for researching and writing about the past. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of Indigenous perspectives on history. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to conduct effective research and writing, and to produce scholarship that is accurate and inclusive.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
As an Anthropologist, you will be responsible for studying the cultures of different societies. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of studying Indigenous cultures in a respectful and ethical manner. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to conduct effective research and analysis, and to make recommendations that will benefit Indigenous communities.
Educator
Educator
As an Educator, you will be responsible for teaching students about various subjects. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of teaching Indigenous perspectives on history and culture. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for your students.
Activist
Activist
As an Activist, you will be responsible for advocating for social and political change. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of settler colonialism in the United States, as well as the importance of Indigenous perspectives on social justice. This knowledge will be essential for you to be able to effectively advocate for change and to create a more just and equitable society.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zm5oig/ongoing
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Ongoing U.S. Settler Colonialism & Native Peoples Teach-Out.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of settler colonialism as a concept and as a global historical phenomenon. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the ongoing impact of settler colonialism on Indigenous peoples around the world.
Brilliant and incisive examination of the ways in which Native Americans have been stereotyped and marginalized in American history and popular culture. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex and often tragic relationship between Native Americans and the United States.
Groundbreaking work that challenges the traditional methods of research and scholarship that have been used to study Indigenous peoples. It offers a new approach to research that is based on Indigenous values and ways of knowing.
Save
Examines the complex relationship between Native American identity and DNA testing. It argues that DNA testing is not a reliable way to determine Native American ancestry and that it can be used to perpetuate harmful stereotypes about Native Americans.
Provides a detailed history of the relationship between Native Americans and colonists in New England. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the early history of the United States and the complex relationship between Native Americans and European settlers.
Provides a detailed history of the Dawes Act, which was a federal law that divided up Native American land into individual allotments. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the history of the Dawes Act and its impact on Native Americans.
Examines the complex relationship between Indigenous women and the state. It argues that Indigenous women are often rendered invisible in the political process and that their experiences are often ignored.
Provides a detailed history of the Iroquois Confederacy during the American Revolution. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the Iroquois Confederacy and their role in the American Revolution.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zm5oig/ongoing
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Effort
You can go at your own pace! We recommend 2 weeks of study at 5 hours/week = ~10 hours total
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Johns Hopkins University
Instructors
Melissa Horner
Shannon Frattaroli, PhD, MPH
Language
English
Good to know
In this course, learners will engage with Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations and their perspectives while reflecting on their own lives
Assistant and Associate Professors of Critical Race Theory in Indigenous Contexts with emphasis on education and law
Develops perspectives on contemporary Indigenous issues by examining resilience and decolonization
Introduces learners to the concept of ongoing settler colonialism and its presence in modern US society
Examines the impact of settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples in the United States
Does not issue certificates of completion
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