Taught by

Who is involved in the planning of Northwest spaces — urban, suburban, rural, tribal? In what ways do Native people make urban places their own? Our program will explore links between Northwest places, urban planning, and Native American and indigenous peoples, framing our discussion around themes of environmental and economic sustainability, social justice and education, and popular culture. Diverse concepts of "native" will be examined, involving not only people but also native landscapes and species. We will broadly consider theories of space, place, mobility, and identity in our discussions of public/private/tribal spaces.

We will consider perceptions, realities, and shared experiences of Native, non-Native, and recent immigrants in Northwest places using the lenses of history, urban studies, public policy, and cultural studies. We will look at alliances in areas such as environmental restoration projects, contemporary art, economic development, and local governance.

During fall and winter quarters we will examine forces of urbanization and suburbanization and how Native life and landscapes changed as a result. Attention will be paid to both immediately apparent and curiously intertwined events and periods in history such as Native displacement, industrialization, world's fairs, the rise of urban planning, tourism, and the arts. Changes in the political life of Native groups will be addressed through a study of legislation and legal cases, tribal casinos, economic development, environmental justice, and contemporary art. We will question and frame competing public narratives, particularly how Native people are portrayed in museum environments, case studies, films, and texts.

From mid-winter to mid-spring, the program will continue to deepen its exploration of these issues. Students will have the opportunity to engage in advanced research projects or internships. Program workshops throughout the year will develop skills, such as in demographic analysis using the U.S. Census, community development, revenue sources, policy research and writing, film critique, interviewing, and oral history. Students will use these skills to become stronger writers and researchers, and importantly, community members. We will require extensive reading and writing on these topics, and students will assist in the facilitation of weekly seminars. Guest presenters, documentary films, museum exhibits, and field trips to tribal museums and urban community organizations will support our analysis throughout the year.

Internship Opportunities

Winter/spring only with faculty approval as part of research project. Students must complete an in-program Internship Learning Contract in consultation with the faculty and Academic Advising. Please go to Individual Study for more information.

Quarters

Fall Open Winter Conditional Spring Signature

Location and Schedule

Campus Location

Olympia

Time Offered

Day