
S02E05: Dissecting the Doctrine of Discovery: Indigenous Rights, White Supremacy, and the United Nations with Betty Lyons
07/20/23 • 61 min
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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.
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.
View the transcript and show notes at podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org. Learn more about the Doctrine of Discovery on our site DoctrineofDiscovery.org.
Previous Episode

S02E04 - The Doctrine of Discovery In The Social Psyche with Tina Ngata
We begin this episode with a land acknowledgement. Our hosts Prof. Philip P. Arnold and Sandy Bigtree (Mohawk Nation), begin by introducing our guest Tina Ngata (Māori Nation). She is a Ngāti Porou mother of two from the East Coast of Te Ika a Maui. Her work involves advocacy for environmental, Indigenous, and human rights. She is internationally known for her work on anti-racism and anti-imperialism. Recently she spoke on Christian Domination at a side event of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous issues.
This episode is dedicated to the memory and legacy of the work done by Nagata’s mentor Pāpā Moana Jackson.
View the transcript and show notes at podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org. Learn more about the Doctrine of Discovery on our site DoctrineofDiscovery.org.
Next Episode

S02E08: Exploring the Doctrine of Discovery, Indigenous Struggles, and the Pursuit of Balance Part 2 with Oren Lyons
Imagine facing a past rooted in subjugation and suppression, only to transform it into a future of balance, peace, and environmental preservation. That's the journey we're embarking on in today's episode. We'll uncover the dark legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery and its devastating effects on our environment while also revealing the relentless struggle of Indigenous people to reclaim their sovereignty and voices. The situation is urgent; our planet is at a crossroads, teetering on the precipice of an irrevocable environmental crisis.
Examining the Doctrine of Discovery in the 18th century, Onondaga Nation Turtle Clan Faithkeeper Oren Lyons discusses the alliances, betrayals and political maneuvers by the settler-colonial nations. He also talks about controversial Indigenous figures like Joseph Brant, who sided with the British, and how the Oneida took the side of the Americans. These examples will serve as a backdrop for Washington's Sullivan Clinton Campaign, which was ignited by Joseph Brandt's actions.
Lastly, the conversation turns toward life's delicate balance. Drawing inspiration from the Great Law of Peace and the Tree of Peace, Faithkeeper Lyons reminds us that all living beings must live in harmony, and none are better. Listen to Faithkeeper Lyons weaves stories of finding a balance between the positive and negative forces within us, the importance of savoring each day, giving thanks, and being careful not to burden others. Faithkeeper Lyons leaves us with a challenge, that getting the best out of the day is a choice, and so is seeking peace in life's tumultuous journey. This episode is more than just a history lesson; it's an invitation to find a balance in life and to contemplate our roles in nature's delicate balance.
View the transcript and show notes at podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org. Learn more about the Doctrine of Discovery on our site DoctrineofDiscovery.org.
Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery - S02E05: Dissecting the Doctrine of Discovery: Indigenous Rights, White Supremacy, and the United Nations with Betty Lyons
Transcript
Jordan Loewen-Colón (00:00:09):
Hello and welcome to the Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery Podcast. The producers of this podcast would like to acknowledge with respect the Onondaga Nation, Firekeepers of Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Indigenous Peoples on whose ancestral lands Syracuse University now stands. And now introducing your host, Philip Arnold and Sandra Bigtree.
Philip P. Arnold (00:00:30):
Welcome to another episode of Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery. I'm Phil
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