Colonialism
Part of Mosaic Lifespan Curriculum
Open
Come, Gather Light to Build by Kiakiali Bordner
Read together and light chalice, followed by brief check-in
Read
What Is Colonialism? A History of Violence, Control and Exploitation by Jamila Osman
(From Teen Vogue, and part of a larger lesson plan)
Watch
Colonization of Africa: An exploration on the map (YouTube, 10:30)
Do
For discussion: Cecil Rhodes, the founder of the Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford University, was a major player in the British colonization of parts of Africa. He once said, “I would annex the planets if I could.”
We currently live in a time when billionaires are trying to figure out how to do just that. How do you imagine beings from other planets might respond to attempted colonization by earthling billionaires? Can you imagine a world/society/planet not based on power and power over? What would that be like?
If time allows, collaborate to create a skit or reel demonstrating how you think that first encounter between Earthling Billionaires and Extraterrestrials might go.
Close
Abundant Grace, by Melissa Jeter
Check-out with reading and one feeling word
Take Home
2020 UUA GA responsive resolution Addressing 400 Years of White Supremacist Colonization
The UUA Responsive Resolution uses the word “invasion” for what is usually called the “migration” of the Pilgrims to what is now the United States. How else can we change the narrative to accurately reflect what settler colonialism really is? What other words can we use? Alternatively, how can we begin to critically discuss our own UU history origins in white settler colonialism, per the Responsive Resolution?
How the legacy of European colonialism is shaping Africa's future (YouTube, 16:59) from France24
With family or friends, watch the film “African Apocalypse,” an African filmmaker’s response to the classic novella “Heart of Darkness.”
Additional resource: The King Leopold II episodes of the podcast “Behind the Bastards” from CoolZoneMedia (explicit language, and extensive discussion of racist violence).