RLG461H1

Buddhism and Indigeneity

In dominant discourse, Buddhism travels and, upon its arrival, enlightens, reforms, improves, or civilizes whoever was there before. In this course we will ask how that view disagrees with people for whom Buddhism is not something that comes later but something that comes first, who say: “We have always been Buddhists.” Such an alternative vision of Buddhism is shared by communities who fight against caste discrimination, occupation by foreign powers, or the destruction of their world. In conversation with members of Indigenous communities visiting our class, we will ask what Buddhist Studies can contribute towards decolonization and Indigenous empowerment, particularly for Indigenous people in Canada.