The Reservation Based Community Determined Program - Foundations for Sustainable Tribal Nations -- Nisqually

Fall 2012, Winter 2013 and Spring 2013 quarters

Faculty

Cynthia Marchand-Cecil psychology, social work

Fields of Study

Native American studies, cultural studies, government, law and government policy, leadership studies, literature, political science, sustainability studies and theater

Preparatory for studies or careers in

public administration, political science, social sciences, human services, law, and tribal administration and government.

Description

This program teaches course work from a Native based perspective within the context of the larger global society. Students at all reservation sites follow the same curriculum with opportunities to focus on local tribal specific issues. The overall theme provides students with a foundational knowledge base for tribal sustainability. In the broadest sense it includes: social, cultural, political, economic and environmental sustainability. At the end of the year, they will have a framework from which to explore restorative solutions and development for sustainability at the local, national and international levels. The theme for 2012-2013 is Foundations for Sustainable Tribal Nations .

In fall, students will review federal Indian law through study of historical and contemporary materials and case law. They will develop a foundation for understanding treaties, the trust relationship, legal precedents, sovereignty, threats to sovereignty, and Indian activism. Study of basic conflicts over jurisdiction, land rights, domestic relations, environmental protection and other areas will provide students with insight into court systems and the political will of governments.

During winter, students will study the identity formation and politics of several US presidents and world leaders through the lens of race, class, gender, nationality, education and other differences that advance or inhibit an individual's pathway to a place of privilege and power. Forms of theater will be used to study human behavior and political communication. Students will critically analyze multiple perspectives of colonization and oppression through review of American democracy and other world governmental structures.

Spring quarter, students will examine the intersection of social, environmental and economic practices on the sustainability of the planet's biological systems, atmosphere and resources using a variety of methods, materials and approaches to explore contemporary sustainability issues in tribal communities, the U.S. and abroad. Students will study social/cultural and environmental justice issues.

Over the program year, students from all sites meet thirteen Saturdays on campus at the Longhouse. Through case study and other methods the curriculum is enhanced and supported. Students participate in workshop-type strands and an integrated seminar that increases writing skills and broadens their exposure to the arts, social sciences, political science and natural science, and other more narrowly defined areas of study.

Location

Tribal

Online Learning

Enhanced Online Learning

Books

Greener Store

May be offered again in

2015-16

Offered During

Evening and Weekend