Department or Program

American Cultural Studies

Abstract

Abstract

This research provides an anti-colonial perspective on Denmark's ongoing colonial relationship with the Inuit peoples in Kalaallit Nunaat. The objectives of this work is to explore the foundational reasons behind the nation’s lack of transparency when discussing its imperialist past and present focusing on the construction of exceptionalism and the use of the educational system as a tool of cultural violence. It includes interviews with members of Inuit communities in Nuuk and Odense that address topics of colonial history, national identity, school systems in Kalaallit Nunaat, and lived experience through local Indigenous perspectives. This thesis is rooted in a process of academic thought that prioritizes Indigenous peoples and their knowledge systems and is written with the philosophy of creating a product with and for Indigenous communities. It centers the idea that radical, anti-racist, anti-colonial frameworks are a threat to the oppressive social order within which Indigenous peoples are currently located and are the key to creating real change. Further, the thesis acknowledges the history of research as a tool of colonialism disempowering Indigenous communities and using Indigenous peoples as passive objects in, and of, western research. As a result, the personal narratives used as its core were collected in an ethical manner and participants were reimbursed with honorariums and provided copies of interviews and additional documentation including editorial power of the final thesis. At its core, this thesis hopes to amplify and center Indigenous peoples and their voices, bringing national imperialism to the forefront of the Danish conscience.

Level of Access

Open Access

First Advisor

Barnett, Kristen

Date of Graduation

5-2020

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Number of Pages

209

Components of Thesis

1 pdf

Download

Open Access

Available to all.

Share

COinS