Facing Forward by Going Back: Decolonizing Ourselves, Our Work and Our Communities

Description

With advances in globalization, technology, migration and mobility, increasingly individuals, groups, organizations and cultures are coming into contact with each other, both locally and on a global stage. But is this just a modern form of colonization? What does D&I look like if we consider histories of colonization? What can we learn from indigenous wisdoms? What would it mean to us to decolonize ourselves and the work? Is it possible to have respectful and mutually beneficial interactions, globally and locally, that is truly diverse, equitable and inclusive? Can we hold multiple ways of knowing and being—equitably?

This session is open to anyone interested in engaging in a deeper conversation. It will be highly interactive, including an experiential activity to explore the impact of colonial contact connecting the past and present. We will end looking to the future and how we can decolonize ourselves, our organizations and our communities, using local and global examples.

Learning Outcomes

• Reflect on the impact of colonization in North America and globally
• Think critically about the legacy of colonization and present-day DEI work globally and locally, specifically with a decolonizing lens
• Explore global and local decolonizing practices

About the Minnesota History Center

Through inspiring exhibits, thought-provoking programs, live performances, and action-packed discovery, the History Center feeds your curiosity about Minnesota’s stories, people, and places. Currently on exhibit: Our Home. Native Minnesota. Native Americans — Dakota, Ojibwe, as well as people from other tribal nations — have dwelled in this area for thousands of years and still live here today. This exhibit shares their stories, enduring presence, and deep connection to the land.