(Un)learning Politics
Temporada 1
Ktunaxa Nation v. British Columbia
The Trial of José Sebastião “Juca” Rosa
St. Nicholas Cathedral v. Kedroff
por (Un)learning Politics
As part of "(Un)learning Religion", students explored the case of Ktunaxa Nation v. British Columbia. The case concerned the Ktunaxa Nation’s claim that building a ski resort on their sacred site, “Qat’muk,” would drive away the Grizzly Bear Spirit and violate their religious freedom. The Supreme Court of Canada ruled against them, holding that the Charter protects individuals from state interference in their ability to hold and manifest beliefs, but does not require the state to protect the spirituality of a sacred site. The decision significantly limited Indigenous religious freedom claims tied to land-based spirituality. Podcast created for the course “The Politics of Religious Freedom and Secularism in the Americas” at Sciences Po Paris, Spring 2025. Creators: Lily, Mayerlyn, Samantha, Judy.
As part of "(Un)learning Religion", students explored the trial of José Sebastião “Juca” Rosa. Juca Rosa, a 19th-century Afro-Brazilian religious leader, was tried and convicted for fraud after his spiritual practices, rituals, and relationships drew suspicion and sensationalized media attention. Although “witchcraft” was not illegal, the case exposed how Afro-Brazilian religions were vulnerable to legal and social persecution. His trial highlights early challenges to religious freedom in Brazil, showing how minority beliefs could be suppressed under the guise of secular law. Podcast created for the course “The Politics of Religious Freedom and Secularism in the Americas” at Sciences Po Paris, Spring 2025. Creators: Catherine, Saman, Isabela, Miranda.
As part of "(Un)learning Religion", students explored the Kedroff v. St. Nicholas Cathedral (1952) case. The case held that New York could not transfer control of the Russian Orthodox Church in America away from its Moscow hierarchy. The Supreme Court ruled that such interference violated the First Amendment’s protection of church autonomy, affirming that government cannot control a church’s internal governance. Podcast created for the course “The Politics of Religious Freedom and Secularism in the Americas” at Sciences Po Paris, Fall 2024. Creators: Frédérique, Rose, Tiffany, Mariam.
As part of "(Un)learning Religion", students explored the landmark case of Beatriz and Others vs. El Salvador. The case placed reproductive rights and health at the center of international human rights law, revealing the complex intersections of religion, politics, and personal freedom. Podcast created for the course “The Politics of Religious Freedom and Secularism in the Americas” at Sciences Po Paris, Fall 2024. Creators: Keya, Tuva, Noémie.