“In Native ways of knowing, human people are often referred to as ‘the younger brothers of Creation.’ We say humans have the least experience with how to live and thus the most to learn—we must look to our teachers among the other species for guidance. They’ve been on earth far longer than we have been, and have had time to figure things out.” – Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass
Environmental Advocacy unites media, communications, and the environment by asking students to examine how advocacy media can address environmental inequity, focusing on marginalized groups impacted by settler colonization, geographies of exclusion, pollution, and climate change. The course will also explore the significance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in shaping sustainable environmental practices, particularly in Indigenous communities, as well as urban gardens that advance community building and traditional African produce. By analyzing historical and contemporary advocacy initiatives and campaigns, students will create and leverage photography, video, audio, and/or other communication modes to design and implement inclusive, equitable advocacy media that promote ecological equity.
Students will engage directly with the SJU Community Garden, the SJU Institute for Environmental Stewardship, and/or other campus and community environmental organizations. No prior media production experience necessary.