Chapter 16: Indigenizing College Teaching

In this chapter, I/me/mine refer to Heather Kind-Keppel but when you read, we, we refers to the countless individuals who made this course possible. Out of the respect of the work of many who made this experience possible, I will attempt use we more than I will use I when appropriate. Also, the terms Indigenous, Native, and American Indian are used somewhat interchangeably; specific tribal affiliation is mentioned whenever possible. This chapter is the story of a course taught in a unique manner, at a unique moment in time, in a unique place. Heather (Mohawk/White) is the instructor of the course and Heather was supported by Ruth (nonNative ally) in telling this story. Ruth and Heather met and became friends through the American College Personnel Association’s Native American Indigenous Network. When Heather with community (that included Ruth) created the class experience that brought students from Wisconsin to North Dakota and the Keystone Pipeline, Ruth’s institution and South Dakota community was a good place to stop, both going to and returning from the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation We both learned a great deal from this experience and wish to share it. Relevant resources and recommendations for people who wish to indigenize their teaching are included.