Discussion (1L): Reflecting on Red Power: 50 Years After Alcatraz

Catalog description

This seminar will explore the legal, cultural, political, and racial complexities underlying the Red Power movement that resulted in the 19-month occupation of nearby Alcatraz Island 50 years ago from 1969-1971. Readings will include excerpts from the seminar work that defined the movement, Vine Deloria Jr.'s Custer Died for Your Sins, a documentary viewing on the occupation, and other interdisciplinary sources from history, political theory, and law. By examining this movement and the tensions it raised, we will explore broader questions of American identity formation, racial construction, social movements, violence, and the complex relationship between the construction of rights, assertions power, and the state. Elements used in grading: Full attendance, reading of assigned materials, and active participation. The seminar will meet four times during the Fall quarter. Class will meet 5:00-7:00pm, September 9, September 23, October 14, November 4.