REL-430 Liberation Theologies

Course Overview

This course examines the development of Liberation Theology in various cultural contexts. Liberation theologies are largely expressions of Christian faith and thought, aimed at addressing the dynamics of oppression and liberation in a society. The intersection of faith and action is examined with an emphasis on how faith resources can mobilize communities of care that advocate for and enact equitable and just ways of living together. This course will examine the origins of Liberation Theology and its continuance in Latin America and Black communities of the United States and South Africa. We will then examine how Liberation Theology has been conceived and practiced in Deaf communities in England and the United States. Then we conclude with a look at how American Indian Liberation Theology has been articulated in the struggle for sovereignty.