CSP 72 American Indian and the Urban Diaspora

At present, 70% of American Indians live in urban areas such as Los Angeles. This course will investigate the challenges and adaptations native communities face in the urban diaspora and investigate the role religion plays in organizing their urban experience (in addition to providing a background in Native American traditions). Special attention will be given to issues that involve the encounter of traditional life ways with the U.S. state, social justice, and issues of religious freedom.  Course materials—which will include case studies, ethnography, film, and literature—will emphasize native voices.  And the class project will be to research and map American Indian landmarks in Los Angeles.