In partnership with the justice system, circle sentencing is a way for Native offenders to re-connect with their spiritual traditions and to break away from the cycle of crime, court and prison, an alternative approach to justice and healing for aboriginal men in Canada's Yukon Territory. On May 20, director, Shanti Thakur, introduces the film, with a discussion after the screening. The group performs ceremonies called Danzas , in hope that humanity as a whole can reestablish a connection to each other and to the earth. The story of Charlene Teters, a Spokane Indian, whose campaign against Chief Illiniwek, the University of Illinois beloved team mascot, turned a college town upside down, forcing many people to rethink the larger issues of culture and identity. Charlene Teters introduces the film, with discussion after the screening.
Discussion follows the performance.
Moderated by Elsa Stamatopoulou, Deputy Director, NY Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, distinguished experts discuss the issue and dialogue with audiences. Click here for information about this special two-part program. All programs are free with suggested Museum admission. Neither tickets nor reservations are required. Reservations are recommended for the June 9th programs in conjunction with The Genomic Revolution exhibition.