Decolonizing Identity

Before we can understand others, we must understand ourselves.

Where do you come from? Who do you come from? What is the history of your people? What is your relation to others, the cultures around you, and the world? These questions are essential for knowing yourself, knowing other people, and creating a just and grounded worldview.

While this is, or should be, a process of self-exploration for everyone, indigenous peoples are most commonly called to this path in response to the effects of colonization, trauma, and lost histories. All too commonly, people don’t know who they are as they wander the world with little footing or clarity about their values. Going through the process of learning who you are can be transformative.

This question of identity/ies has become increasingly important in recent decades as we collectively reckon with the experience and damage of colonization. And it will continue to play a central role as we continue to understand who we are and use that knowledge to better work with others for the benefit of all.

This week Dr. Rudolph Rÿser’s sons, Jon and Morgan, discuss their journeys with identity from our film series Pathfinder: The Untold Story of the “Indian Business”, which is currently in production.

Jon Rÿser speaks about his father’s influence and indigeneity on his perception of reality.

Morgan Rÿser explains his father’s approach to instilling a sense of identity and the importance of knowing who one is in the world.

Learn more about the film.

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