COURSE DESCRIPTION

Despite producing just 0.02% of global emissions, the Pacific is disproportionately impacted by climate change. In this course, you will learn about Indigenous and Sāmoan perspectives on climate change and artistic and activist responses. In addition, you will learn about the Sāmoan way (faʻa Sāmoa) and gain understanding on how indigeneity figures in the global context. This course is completed alongside ES 488/588 Climate Science and Policy in Sāmoa. Through coursework with UO and National University of Sāmoa guest lecturers, home stays, and excursions your learning will integrate Indigenous culture, artist and activism with climate science and policy.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Students who successfully complete this course will:

• Understand the culture and context of Sāmoa through first-hand experience.
• Understand climate threats to Sāmoan communities.
• Understand global, regional, local and Indigenous responses to Sāmoan climate change including adaptation, policy, activism and creative responses.
• Gain experience in indigenous and social science research methodologies.
• Evaluate reflexively climate narratives, responses and discourses from an Indigenous studies perspective.