UNIV 3003: Study Abroad-Human Condition-Global: Indigenous People’s Rights to Self-Determination in Modern Mexico (3 credit hours)

This is a UNIFI: Human Condition Global category course. It can also count as a general education UNIFI elective credit under the category of Connect.

Since the Spanish conquest, indigenous societies throughout Mexico have faced exploitation, racism, discrimination, forced displacement, and repression at the hands of “democratic” governments, landowners, unfettered capitalism, and the forces of globalization. Yet, their “indigenousness” is repeatedly exploited for political and capitalistic ends by the same state responsible for their marginalization and precarious conditions.

The purpose of this course is twofold: to grasp a more nuanced understanding of Mayan history and how contemporary communities are pushing back against injustices and settler colonialism, and fighting for their right to self-determination. Think of this course as a people’s history of Merida and the Yucatán in which everyone, regardless of status, class, race, ethnicity, or gender, has played a vital role in nation-state building and the preservation of Mayan culture. Moreover, this course aims to get students to think critically, engage in the readings, ask questions, and challenge students to interrogate dominant narratives. In the first half of the course, students will learn about Mayan history, culture, and society by visiting archeological sites, museums, and attending lectures by local experts. Students will also learn about the interconnection between the surrounding environment and the rise and demise of civilizations. Special attention will be placed on how the Maya overcame limited water supply, developed natural resources, and how the changing environment impacted life. In the second half, students will learn about initiatives spearheaded by Mayan descendants, human rights groups, ecotourism, and community organizers to raise awareness about various indigenous issues, protect sacred land, preserve Pre-Columbian languages, and other relevant endeavors.

Participation in this program requires several class meetings throughout the spring semester, although the course is scheduled as a summer course. The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in their study abroad course.  Please contact the program's course leader for more information on academic requirements.  

NOTES:​

• Students planning to participate in the spring commencement ceremony in May can enroll in this summer term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the summer term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.
• Students attending colleges and universities other than UNI are welcome to participate in this program. If you are not currently a UNI student, but would like to participate in this program, please contact the UNI Study Abroad Center prior to starting your program application.