TIDE “Seminar on Racism, Colonialism, and Extraction in the Geosciences” featuring Alvin Harvey

Abstract: Modern space exploration and Indigenous world views may appear contradictory at first, as a mirror of the conflict between western science and Indigenous science, but within this dichotomy lies foundations for rich discussion and action on ensuring space is explored and developed for all. Traditional methods of education outreach and the intentional degradation of Indigenous science have enabled colonial and harmful practices in space-based industry and academia. For Indigenous scholars, concerned members of the space community, and others, there are emerging paths towards alternative approaches on how we imagine and work towards constructing interstellar futures. This talk will focus on one such path, starting with a grounded take on Indigenous experiences in STEM higher education, followed by an examination of space-based education and outreach in Indigenous communities, lessons learned from previous conflicts between Indigenous communities and the space community, and finally a discussion of how Indigenous science and western science can work together through relationality.

Presented by TIDE – Towards Inclusion and Diversity in EAPS . Please contact Zoe Aarons at zsaarons@mit.edu for more meeting details and password.