Noon-Hour Decolonization/Indigenization Series: Adam Benn on Teaching Indigenous Poetry

Thanks so much for the wonderful discussion, Adam!

For those interested in some of the poems Adam mentioned, do have a look at the Poetry Foundation site, which has a curated collection of Indigenous poetry. Another good resource is Poetry in Voice (it has the -- for me -- silly categorization links at the bottom of each poem, which, when not taken seriously, can lead to some illuminating conversations).

And -- Adam mentioned that he often selects poets who remind readers that Indigeneity is not, in spite of a common Western assumption, simply a historical relic. My own recommendation here is Joshua Whitehead's Full Metal Indigiqueer, which I teach as, in part, an illustration of the intersectional dynamics and fluid vitality of contemporary Indigenous identity.

Thanks to Adam Benn on your session. It was impactful to hear your use of poetry as a way to have students experience diverse perspectives from indigenous poets. I enjoyed your presentation and also the discussion from faculty afterwards. It is inspiring to work with people that are so thoughtful and committed to their work.