Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery

In this episode of the Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery podcast, hosts Phil Arnold and Sandy Bigtree interview Anthea Butler, The Geraldine R. Segal Professor in American Social Thought and Chair of Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania. They discuss the role of evangelical Christians in manipulating voting structures and policies, as well as the connection between evangelicalism and racism. Butler explains that evangelicals often use morality as a shield to impose their own beliefs on others rather than living by those beliefs themselves. She also discusses the evangelical desire to bring about the Kingdom of God on Earth and their opposition to government intervention. The conversation touches on the history of evangelicalism, the influence of whiteness, and the need to challenge dominant narratives through civic engagement and education.

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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.

Get ready to embark on a thought-provoking journey with Betty Lyons, the Executive Director of the American Indian Law Alliance. As we dissect the unsettling complacency surrounding the Doctrine of Discovery and the destruction it has caused among Indigenous Peoples, prepare to be challenged and enlightened. We delve into the deeply ingrained hierarchy that continues to perpetuate inequality and injustice, questioning how we can dismantle this structure that so significantly benefits those in power.
Transitioning our focus, we turn to the pivotal role Indigenous Peoples play in environmental conservation, celebrating the richness and diversity of cultures, languages, and traditions encapsulated within these communities. We confront the troubling implications of the Doctrine of Discovery and argue why the existing United Nations Declaration on Human Rights fails to address these issues sufficiently. Our discussion unfolds to encompass the broader issue of white supremacy and the need for more inclusive education. Join us in challenging the fear and fascism perpetuated by politicians and the scapegoating tactics employed by the one-percenters.
Our conversation culminates in exploring the interactions between Indigenous Peoples and the United Nations member states, spotlighting the pervasive issue of commodification and its devastating impact on Indigenous lands and resources. Betty and I also scrutinize the commodification of the world, its roots in colonialism, and the role of multinational corporations in exploiting Indigenous rights for financial gain. Prepare to engage, learn, and be inspired to take action as we unravel these compelling topics, encouraging a more understanding and inclusive 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 is an engaging conversation with Onondaga Nation Turtle Clan Faithkeeper Oren Lyons, a stalwart in Indigenous, environmental, and human rights initiatives. We traverse the terrain of Indigenous rights, the Doctrine of Discovery, and The Haudenosaunee's pivotal role at the United Nations.
Faithkeeper Lyons tells the story of several pivotal collaborations for Indigenous rights. He navigates us through the terrain of his personal struggles and the impactful moments in the fight for Indigenous rights. One such moment we delve into is the occupation of Alcatraz Island and the acts of courage that illuminated the path for future struggles.
As we dig deeper, Faithkeeper Lyons opens up about his efforts toward Indigenous rights legislation and the numerous events he helped organize. His journey, fueled by the unwavering support from traditional Indigenous leaders, is a testament to resilience. You'll be left with a profound understanding of Indigenous struggles and the lasting impact of the Doctrine of Discovery. Tune in for an enlightening and thought-provoking episode with Oren Lyons.

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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.

Today we're privileged to converse with Eve Reyes-Aguirre, an Izkaloteka Azteca Indigenous woman, who has passionately dedicated over 25 years of her life advocating for human rights, women's rights, Indigenous peoples rights, and environmental rights. Eve, a fervent advocate, has a wealth of experience from her time at Tonotierra, an embassy for Indigenous peoples, which she shares with us. She also provides us with a deeper understanding of the Doctrine of Discovery while explaining Tonatierra's mission to dismantle its harmful effects.
Eve takes us through her experiences as she navigates the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, sharing strategies with Indigenous nations globally. With her first-hand experience, she elucidates the impact of forced displacement on Indigenous peoples and the lingering trauma of colonialism. She brings to light the grassroots advocacy work by Tonatierra in Arizona, which extends to assisting Indigenous farm workers and championing for Indigenous food sovereignty.
As we wrap up our enlightening conversation, Eve shares profound insights on the influence of settler colonialism on both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. She underscores the importance of understanding false climate solutions that only serve to displace Indigenous peoples further. Eve leaves us with an understanding of our spiritual connection to the land and how this connection can inform our collective fight against climate change. This engaging conversation is not to be missed, as it sheds light on Indigenous advocacy, identity, and climate change in a manner never before heard.
We dedicate this episode to the memory of our dear friend and founder of Tonaiterra, Tupak Huehuecoyotl (Tupac Enrique Acosta) who has recently joined the ancestors.

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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.

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.