AP/RLST 3819 3.00
Outsiders Inside Religion
Religion plays an important role in inculcating and perpetuating societal norms and values. However, that is only part of the story. Many members of marginalized groups have also found within religion a space in which to resist and to manoeuvre within those same norms and values. For religion is not just the site of patriarchal domination; at the same time that its symbols, rituals, practices, and beliefs serve to shape the worldview of those participating in them, those participants are also re-interpreting and re-configuring those symbols, rituals, practices and beliefs. Members of marginalized groups have always taken advantage of that dynamic, revising, transforming, and challenging the religious rituals, practices, symbols and beliefs inculcating and perpetuating patriarchal norms and values. This course examines the strategies employed by members of marginalized groups over the past several decades to resist and to manoeuvre within patriarchal stereotypes, norms and values from within their religious traditions. The strategies explored will include those employed by feminists, racialized groups, members of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and queer communities (LGBTQ), members of post-colonial nations, and persons with disabilities.
RELIGIOUS TRADITION(S) COVERED: Multiple
Course Category: Religion and Gender