ANTH 284 - Food Sovereignty and Indigenous Movements in the Global South

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

(Same as AFRS 284 and LALS 284) In April 2015, the Maya Leaders Alliance (MLA) achieved a significant legal victory against the Government of Belize at the Caribbean Court of Justice regarding ownership of their lands. This landmark decision established an important precedent for other Indigenous movements across the Caribbean Community. The MLA’s case highlighted that their land rights were crucial for maintaining their cultural heritage and ensuring food sovereignty. This interdisciplinary course provides a sampling of similar Indigenous food movements throughout the Global South. Case studies include regions ranging from Latin America and the Caribbean, Continental Africa, and Central and South Asia. We will examine the origins of the food sovereignty movement and differentiate it from other popular terminologies like ‘food security’ and ‘the right to food’ which are often used within the United Nations framework. Students also have the opportunity to learn directly from Indigenous leaders about their efforts to decolonize the food system. Mark Chatarpal.

Two 75-minute periods.

Course Format: CLS