The Doctrine of Discovery: Forum on Indigenous Issues, Local to Global

On September 15, an event, entitled "The Doctrine of Discovery: Forum on Indigenous Issues, Local to Global," will take place at the Student Memorial Center beginning at 3 p.m.

About the Forum: Papal Bulls of the 15th century gave Christian explorers the right to claim lands they "discovered" and lay claim to those lands for their Christian Monarchs. Any land that was not inhabited by Christians was available to be "discovered", claimed, and exploited. If the "pagan" inhabitants could be converted, they might be spared. If not, they could be enslaved or killed.

The Discovery Doctrine is a concept of public international law expounded by the United States Supreme Court in a series of decisions. The doctrine has been primarily used to support decisions invalidating or ignoring aboriginal possession of land in favor of colonial or post-colonial governments.

Program Schedule:

3 p.m.          Introductions Ms. Carolyn Rittenhouse, Rev. Marta Benavides

3:15-4 p.m.  Ms. Rittenhouse: The Oglala Sioux and Sacred Sites

4-5:30 p.m.  Rev. Marta Benavides: Global Impact of the Doctrine, the Role of the United Nations.

5:30-6 p.m.  Formation of Action Committee

6-7 p.m.       Pot luck and Committee Work

7-8:30 p.m.  Jeff Worley, Esq. - The Doctrine and its Implications for Central PA.

Price: This event is free and open to the public.