Standing on the shores of Onondaga Lake—the birthplace of democracy in North America—Haudenosaunee knowledge keepers share timeless wisdom about our relationship with Mother Earth. This powerful conversation begins with Jake Edwards reciting the Thanksgiving Address, a profound expression of gratitude that acknowledges the interconnected responsibilities of all beings.

"When you look at the responsibilities that were given to us with the original instructions of humans," Edwards explains, "the details of environmental justice are all in there." The Onondaga Nation has maintained these teachings despite centuries of attempted erasure, and they offer crucial insights for our current environmental crisis.

Faithkeeper Oren Lyons reminds us that the Great Tree of Peace—a thousand-year-old teaching symbolized in the Haudenosaunee Confederacy Belt—represents the foundation of true democracy, one that extends rights and consideration to all living beings, not just humans. "World peace is the only solution," he states, warning that climate change is accelerating while leaders focus on war instead of survival.

The conversation unfolds against the backdrop of colonial history, as participants explore how the Doctrine of Christian Discovery created legal frameworks that justified land theft and attempted to sever indigenous peoples from their connection to the earth. Now, ironically, many institutions built on these foundations are looking to indigenous knowledge for environmental healing, often without addressing their complicity in displacement.

Most powerfully, the speakers offer clear direction for moving forward: "If you want to start healing," Edwards states, "you start with where it started—taking the land. So give it back." He draws direct connections between environmental restoration projects like dam removal on the Klamath River and the return of land to indigenous stewardship.

Listen to this essential conversation about gratitude, responsibility, and what it truly means to live in right relationship with the earth and each other. Share these teachings widely—our collective future may depend on it.

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

Holly Rine, associate professor of history at Le Moyne College, offers a compelling perspective on teaching the Doctrine of Discovery at a Jesuit institution. With remarkable candor, she shares her own journey from unfamiliarity with this history to becoming an advocate for institutional honesty about colonization's ongoing impacts.

The conversation explores how critical examination of historical texts like the Jesuit Relations reveals their propagandistic nature. What many accept as straightforward historical accounts were actually carefully crafted narratives designed to secure European funding for colonial projects. Rine encourages her students to question these sources by asking "who wrote them, for whom, and to what purpose?" This approach transforms passive learning into active critical thinking about how history shapes our present.

Particularly fascinating is the discussion of Onondaga Lake as both sacred space to the Haudenosaunee and contested territory through colonization. Rine's work examines how different cultural perspectives view the lake – as either a sacred gathering place or merely as an economic resource. This dichotomy continues today with debates about development projects like Micron's semiconductor facility, drawn to Syracuse largely because of its abundant water resources. The environmental degradation of the lake stands as a physical manifestation of colonial attitudes toward land and water.

The podcast reveals how Indigenous knowledge systems challenge conventional academic approaches. While Western historians rely heavily on written documents, the Haudenosaunee preserve history through oral tradition, wampum belts, and a relational understanding with the natural world. These alternative ways of recording history offer transformative perspectives on our relationship with the environment and each other – particularly relevant as we face climate change and environmental crisis.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, this episode presents a timely opportunity to reassess the origins of American democracy. The Haudenosaunee Great Law of Peace provided a model of democratic governance that included women and non-human beings in decision-making processes centuries before the Constitution was drafted. By acknowledging these influences and confronting uncomfortable truths about our shared history, we open possibilities for healing relationships with both the land and its original stewards.

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

Yuria Celidwen, a Nahua and Maya scholar and UC Berkeley postdoctoral researcher, shares how Indigenous wisdom offers pathways for collective healing beyond colonial mindfulness practices that prioritize individual benefit over community wellbeing.

• Identifying as a "truth bearer" from Maya tradition, Celidwen bridges Indigenous epistemologies with academic research
• The mindfulness movement has colonial roots, extracting Eastern practices while severing them from community responsibility
• Indigenous sciences engage in "intersubjective dialogue" with subjects rather than treating them as inert objects
• The doctrine of discovery established belief systems of domination that continue to impact Indigenous peoples
• Historical distortions by missionaries and colonists undermined Haudenosaunee matrilineal systems and traditional practices
• Indigenous knowledge uses metaphor, poetry, and ceremony to express complex scientific understanding
• Young people increasingly recognize the value of Indigenous perspectives in addressing climate emergency
• Transformation requires composting old narratives of purity and domination to create new ways of being
• We're never alone in this work - we carry ancestral wisdom and plant seeds for future generations

Find Yuria Celidwen book "Flourishing Kin: Indigenous Wisdom for Collective Well-Being" to discover Indigenous-inspired practices for reconnecting with the more-than-human world.

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

This episode explores the vital need for a value change rooted in indigenous perspectives, particularly the teachings of the Haudenosaunee. Listeners are invited to reflect on how our current monetary-driven worldview is unsustainable and how adopting a more relational and respectful way of interacting with the Earth can pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Themes
• Discussion of the urgency of changing our economic values
• Insights from the Haudenosaunee about the interconnectedness of life
• Historical context of the "Basic Call to Consciousness"
• Exploration of leadership through indigenous philosophies
• Introduction of the Rights of Nature movement
• Presentation of the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Mother Earth
• Importance of decolonizing narratives and changing perspectives
• Emphasis on our responsibility and connection to the Earth
• Reflection on the positive potential in adopting indigenous values

If you liked this episode, please check out our website at podcastdoctrineofdiscovery.org for more information and, if you like this episode, review it on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

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

What if the key to protecting Native American sacred sites lies not within the confines of existing religious freedom laws, but in a reimagined legal strategy? Join us as we engage with Michael McNally, the insightful author of "Defend the Sacred: Native American Religious Freedom Beyond the First Amendment." Together, we unravel the complexities of how religious language, despite its colonial roots, can be harnessed to uphold Native American rights. Drawing on the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and the pivotal work of advocates like Suzanne Schoenharjo, McNally suggests a more adaptable interpretation of these laws that could empower Native communities and fortify their battles for sacred land protection.

Our discussion takes a profound turn as we examine indigenous treaties and their deeper meanings beyond financial arrangements. By highlighting the Dakota, Lakota, and Little Traverse Band of Odawa lands, we recognize these treaties as living expressions of an inherent bond with nature, advocating for a paradigm shift from ownership to stewardship. The episode delves into the Doctrine of Discovery, inviting indigenous voices to reshape the narrative and affirm the interconnectedness of all life. Through these conversations, we seek to bridge legal frameworks with universal principles, aiming for a holistic appreciation of indigenous perspectives.

The exploration doesn't stop there; we navigate the enduring impact of colonial legacies on Native sovereignty and governance. From the contentious history of the Bureau of Indian Affairs to the inspiring traditional governance of nations like the Onondaga, we uncover stories of resilience and hope. As we touch on legal resistance, landmark cases, and international law strategies like the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, we emphasize the persistent struggle and triumph of Native nations. With reflections on contemporary resistance movements and the challenges of safeguarding sacred land, the discussion is both a testament to Native perseverance and a call to honor their enduring wisdom.

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

Uncover the often overlooked yet deeply influential Doctrine of Discovery with us, as we bring political science instructor and former Congressional candidate Steve Schwartzberg to the table. Join us to explore how this doctrine, woven into the fabric of U.S. history, continues to impact Indigenous peoples today. Steve shares his insights, drawing from influential thinkers like Steve Newcomb and Peter Dorico, to expose the historical context and the enduring injustices perpetuated by figures such as Chief Justice John Marshall. We also shine a light on Steve's 2018 Congressional campaign and his advocacy for crucial issues like Medicare for All and tribal sovereignty, providing an intimate glimpse into his motivations and vision for change.

We navigate the complex interplay between Christian theology and Indigenous rights, challenging the exclusionary practices rooted in the Doctrine of Discovery. By examining historical figures like Sepulveda, we reveal how religious rhetoric has been manipulated to justify oppression and violence. Our conversation is enriched by Indigenous perspectives on divinity and interconnectedness, offering a powerful counter-narrative to hierarchical religious constructs. This exploration invites listeners to reassess the impact of these doctrines on modern secular hierarchies and nationalism, urging a critical examination of the legacies that shape our world today.

In a poignant conclusion, we turn to the transformative power of grief, inspired by the Onondaga Nation's practices. Embracing grief as a pathway to healing, we discuss how acknowledging historical injustices can foster genuine relationships and understanding. The episode culminates in a reflection on the manipulation of history and the enduring myths surrounding figures like Columbus, highlighting the necessity of moving from guilt to love and interconnectedness. Through these rich discussions, we invite you to confront historical injustices and explore pathways to reconciliation, offering hope for a more inclusive and understanding future.

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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

Embark on a profound historical exploration with João Chaves, Assistant Professor at Baylor University, as we uncover the lasting effects of the Doctrine of Discovery and its legacy of colonialism, faith, and power struggles in the Americas. Our conversation traverses from the Portuguese conquest and the influx of Confederate exiles post-American Civil War to the development of Brazilian Protestantism. Chaves' expertise illuminates the complexities of property rights and racial hierarchies that continue to shape Latin American religious and social dynamics, offering a rare lens into the past that still echoes today.

As we discuss the unique challenges faced by Brazilian Baptists migrating to the United States, we uncover the reshaping of identities and ideologies in the shadow of the Southern Baptist Convention. Identity conflicts, the role of local converts, and the navigation through Christian nationalism, all contribute to a vibrant tapestry of faith and community. Chavez guides us through the intersection of theology and justice as these communities grapple with immigration issues and ethnic solidarity, revealing how deep-rooted beliefs can both hinder and empower transformation within these religious enclaves.

The episode culminates in a critical examination of the intertwining of racism, Christianity, and capitalism—forces that have shaped the modern world, with a spotlight on Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro's 'pan-Christian' leadership. We then pivot to Baylor University's own introspection into its historical narratives, highlighting the Commission for Historical Campus Representations' work toward truth and academic freedom. The personal stories Antonia Teixeira serve as a somber reminder of how the quest for institutional goodness often clashes with the painful realities of our shared history. Join us as we navigate these sensitive landscapes, striving for a deeper understanding of where we've been, and where we might go from here.

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