Indigenous - At the Center for Black and Indigenous Praxis, we are initiating our work with Indigenous folx, specifically those who identify as Native American/Indigenous to Turtle Island. Our commitment is rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion principles. It is crucial to emphasize that our intention is never to limit or determine the identity of what Indigenous means. We extend our deep reverence to the richness encapsulated within the term 'Indigenous,' recognizing it as a multifaceted diversity of traditions, identities, and vibrant living cultures. Often obscured in their intricate complexity, these traditions are regrettably underrepresented and, too frequently, find themselves socio-economically disenfranchised on a global scale. In acknowledging this, we invite a collective celebration and exploration of the profound depth and beauty inherent in Indigenous heritage, fostering an environment that uplifts and appreciates the complexity often overlooked. We recognize our role as a new center and strive to build respectful relationships starting with our closest relatives in physical proximity. As our capacity and relationships evolve, we will expand our engagement to encompass a broader Indigenous community, ensuring inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in our collaborative endeavors.  

Black - We recognize that the term Black encompasses a rich tapestry of traditions, identities, and cultures within the African diaspora, as well as includes Australian Aboriginal peoples. While we currently initiate our focus on Black American experiences, we emphasize our commitment to inclusivity and equity. Our intention is to continually expand our foci and relationships in a sustainable manner as our center's capacity evolves. By embracing the diversity within the Black community, we strive to create a space that honors the multifaceted nature of Black identities, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for learning and growth. 

Priorities

It is essential to recognize that Black and Indigenous praxis combines knowledge and action, including a strong emphasis on honoring the wisdom passed down through generations and respecting the insights of ancestors. In accordance with these fundamental principles, CBIP has identified a set of key priorities:

Become a leading institution of Black and Indigenous scholarship and pedagogy.

• In collaboration with the Rockefeller Library, our CBIP Research Fellow is currently compiling CIIS dissertations, theses, and publications to build an accessible CIIS Black & Indigenous scholarship database.

Improve the student experience by countering academic inequity with culturally centered pedagogy, course content, and mentorship, promoting a sense of intellectual validity and agency.

• CBIP, in partnership with the Center for Writing and Scholarship, offers a bi-weekly study hall for students working with Black and Indigenous scholarship, providing practical workshops on writing and publishing in this field.
• The Emerging Black Clinicians and Bodies of Culture Fellowships offer year-round culturally centered education, mentorship, and community-provider experiences to 24 fellows each year, equipping them for impactful work in People of Culture* communities.

Co-create a flourishing community, promoting belonging, optimal wellness, transformative reconciliation, and relationships based on shared humanity.

• CBIP organizes dynamic initiatives, including a monthly group addressing a working group tackling Beyond Land Acknowledgement Task Force recommendations, monthly outings to Indigenous community events, and an engaging speaker series.

Advance a spirituality of action and confront oppression by working with community partners to enhance emerging scholars’ learning with lived experience and social engagement.

• CBIP hosts vibrant interfaith cultural events led by practitioner scholars who blend ceremony, panel discussions, art, and cultural expression into joyful community celebrations.