Imagining Futures: Themes of Decolonization, Empowerment, and Mentorship within Indigenous Contexts in Education

Session Type: Paper Session

Abstract

Envisioning futures within Indigenous education involves engaging with themes of decolonization, empowerment, and mentorship. Decolonization challenges colonial narratives, urging the reclamation of Indigenous knowledge, languages, and cultural practices, which helps build identity and a sense of belonging. Empowerment motivates individuals to use their voices and agency to shape their educational experiences. Mentorship from seasoned Indigenous leaders is essential, as it facilitates passing down wisdom and cultural knowledge to future generations. By incorporating these themes, educational practices can foster environments that build resilience and encourage inclusive conversations, imagining a future where Indigenous perspectives play a vital role in shaping educational policies. This comprehensive approach benefits Indigenous learners and enriches the broader education community, promoting respect for diverse learning experiences.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific and Beyond

Chair

• Ivy Kahukiwa Smith, Te Kōpere o te Iwi o Hineuru

Papers

• Stories of Multigenerational Resistance to Internalized Oppression within a Majority-Hawaiian Community - Kourtney Kawano, University of California - Berkeley

• The Academy as a Settler Nexus: A Global Analysis of Indigenous Experiences in Higher Education - Levon Ghanimian, Claremont Graduate University

• Mentorship as Resistance: Cultivating Indigenous Leadership in the Face of Historical Injustice - Margaret J. Maaka, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa; Huia Tomlins Jahnke, Massey University; Kekailoa Perry, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa; Kerry Laiana Wong, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa; Patricia Maringi Gina Johnston-Ak, Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi

• Filipinos in Hawaiʻi: Pathways to Decolonization and Empowerment - Phillippe Rivera Fernandez-Brennan, Halau Ku Mana

Session Organizer

• Katrina-Ann R. Kapā‘anaokalāokeola Oliveira, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa

Discussants

• Sharon Nelson-Barber, WestEd

• Kamuela M. Kimokeo, Windward Community College